Thanks to its soothing, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, itrelieves intense eye strain and mild night vision problems.
Commonly known as « rabbit grass, » Emilia coccinea is a plant widely used in traditional African medicine. Recognizable by its yellow flowers, it is known for its soothing, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties, particularly for the eyes.
A plant with medicinal properties
The effectiveness of Emilia coccinea stems primarily from its biochemical properties, according to Armand, a naturopath: « Rich in tannins, alkaloids, and saponins, the plant offers marked antibacterial and antimicrobial properties. It is therefore a preferred traditional remedy for fighting eye infections and conjunctivitis, whether bacterial or viral in origin. »
In addition to its flavonoids and phenolic compounds, the plant also possesses a powerful anti-inflammatory action, as noted by the expert. When applied topically, the plant helps reduce redness, soothe irritations caused by dust or smoke, and decongest swollen eyelids in cases of blepharitis. In rural areas, the juice extracted from its leaves is frequently used as a first-aid remedy to clean the eye and prevent complications after minor trauma or the intrusion of a foreign body. « When I was younger, whenever my eyes itched, my mother would crush the leaves and put a drop of juice in each eye; it relieved the itching, » explains Sarah, a user.
But the benefits of this flower don’t stop there. Ethnobotanical practices report that its extracts provide welcome support in cases of intense eye fatigue and help
relieve mild night vision problems. Finally, its high antioxidant content traps free radicals and protects the delicate cells of the eye against oxidative stress, which is responsible for premature aging of the eye.
Precautions for use
Traditionally, the fresh juice extracted from the leaves or inflorescences is used as eye drops. However, the expert reminds us that the application method requires great care. External topical application remains the safest method: the fresh leaves are carefully washed and then crushed to extract the juice. This juice is then applied with a clean, cold compress to the closed eyelids to gently decongest the eye.
Furthermore, the eye is an extremely sensitive organ. Applying homemade preparations to it, whether pressed leaf juice or artisanal infusions, exposes it to serious risks of bacterial contamination from sediment or impurities, potentially causing severe corneal irritation or infection. In addition, scientific research reveals the presence of pyrrolizidine alkaloids in Emilia coccinea, molecules with potential long-term toxicity.
While the plant confirms the exceptional potential of traditional medicine, medical safety must take precedence. To treat eye conditions safely, the use of sterile eye drops from a pharmacy remains the standard practice. In case of severe pain, persistent symptoms, or decreased visual acuity, an urgent consultation with an ophthalmologist or other healthcare professional is essential.
