Eyebright is a wild plant, native to Europe. Its name is thought to have been derived from its use in traditional folk remedies. The active ingredient within eyebright is thought to be the tannins. For countless centuries, herbalists and health conscious people have relied on the pure, natural qualities of herbs. Eyebright is a wild plant, native to Europe. Its name is thought to have been derived from its use in traditional folk remedies. The active ingredient within eyebright is thought to be the tannins. For countless centuries, herbalists and health conscious people have relied on the pure, natural qualities of herbs.