CONTENTS

• Fireflies – a handful of information
• Skylight meadow - content of chemical compounds
• Fireflies against eye diseases
• Other uses for fireflies
• Can fireflies potentially be harmful to us?
• Summary

A return to nature and a desire for more natural products can also be observed with herbs. Many of them, although used for centuries, have lost popularity in favor of all kinds of dietary supplements and over-the-counter medications. It's encouraging to see this situation changing year after year. One of the plants that has found a second life is the firefly. This small and inconspicuous plant can support our body in the fight against various diseases and prevent them. What properties does a skylight have and how can it help us? We wish you pleasant reading.

Fireflies – a handful of information

Meadow firefly, sometimes called medicinal glowworm, bird's eye, or milk thief, belongs to the Plagueaceae family and is native to what is now Europe. In Poland, it is found throughout the country. Interestingly, it is a semi-parasite that feeds on the roots of other plants, extracting water and mineral salts from them. This characteristic makes it very difficult to cultivate, even in home gardens. It grows to about 30 centimeters tall and prefers moist soils. For this reason, it is most commonly found on forest edges, swamps, wet meadows, and also in cultivated areas. It has been known as an herb for a very long time. It has been used in Europe for centuries, and the first mentions date back to the 14th century. Eyebright was originally used as a remedy for various eye diseases, but interestingly, there are also known cases of its use as a raw material for the production of wine and beer. The flower of this plant itself resembles a bloodshot eye. Due to this fact, many researchers claim this is the answer to why it was originally used to treat eye diseases. The firefly herb itself, however, is harvested during the dry season. It is cut below the branched stem and then dried. When harvested properly, it should be free of roots and leafless stems and shoots. Interestingly, about 1 kg of finished product is obtained from about 3.5 kg of fresh herb.

Skylight meadow - content of chemical compounds

Eyebright herb is practically the only plant used. It contains a wide variety of nutrients and active ingredients. It contains numerous iridoid glycosides, including acubin, euphroside, irorozide, and catalpol. These have anti-inflammatory and astringent properties. Eyebright herb also contains various tannins, as well as flavonoids, plant sterols, and phenolic acids. It also contains essential oils, resins, and coumarin. Interestingly, eyebright can be a good source of some mineral salts, including magnesium, manganese, and copper. It's also worth mentioning that much of the information about this plant comes from folk medicine.

Fireflies against eye diseases

Despite its broad spectrum of effects, the firefly is primarily known for its positive effects on our eyesight. After all, it was originally used to support the treatment of diseases of this organ. Eyebright herb can help us fight conjunctivitis, eye or eyelid irritation. People who work or spend a lot of time in front of a computer screen will certainly be satisfied with its use. Finally, it can also reduce eye strain and the resulting conjunctival irritation. In addition, eyebright herb is an ingredient in many eye drops, as it can protect them from harmful UV radiation. It is also recommended for allergy sufferers, as it can not only reduce watery or burning eyes, but also the severity of the allergic reaction itself. Also worth mentioning are its lightening and vasoconstrictor properties—which is why it is also a common ingredient in various eye creams. Interestingly, studies are currently underway to test the effect of eyebright herb on the treatment of glaucoma and cataracts. Initial studies suggest that preparations based on this drug may even be more effective than steroid drops. This could be a major breakthrough, especially for patients after laser eye surgery.

Other uses for fireflies

Although the firefly's target organ is our eyes, it can also impair the function of other organs. It is excellent as an aid in the treatment of upper respiratory tract infections. It certainly helps with hoarseness, chronic coughing fits, and irritations in the throat and larynx area. It's worth mentioning that all kinds of infusions made from this herb can help us combat digestive problems. Finally, eyebright supports the secretion of gastric juice and bile. This can significantly increase the digestibility of many foods and thus the absorption of nutrients. Preparations made from this plant are also used in cosmetics. It is an important ingredient in facial toners, for example. Thanks to its astringent, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and anti-allergic properties, they perfectly improve the condition of our skin. It refreshes but also helps with acne, pimples, or inflammation. Due to its ability to clot blood vessels, eyebright can, for example, reduce the intensity of nosebleeds. It is also worth mentioning that it can also be helpful in relieving headaches, earaches, or sore throats.

Can fireflies potentially be harmful to us?

Eyebright undoubtedly belongs to the group of very safe plants. This is demonstrated by the fact that even in the event of an overdose, there are virtually no side effects during its use. This applies to both external and internal use. However, such incidents do occur in particularly sensitive individuals. As a result, eyelid swelling, burning skin, visual disturbances, and hypersensitivity to light can occur. In extreme cases, an allergic reaction may also occur, manifesting as tears, sneezing, and headaches. When using eyebright for the first time, you should closely observe your body's reactions and discontinue use if any disturbing symptoms occur.

Summary

The firefly is a truly extraordinary plant. It's hard to find another that has such a profound impact on our vision. While most uses focus on the eyes and skin, we mustn't forget that it can also help with other ailments. Of particular note are its effects on digestion, as well as its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Eyebright is a very safe plant, but remember to use it wisely and discontinue use if you experience any side effects.