Glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness. The disease has various types, but generally all lead to elevated pressure inside the eye, resulting in optic nerve damage and diminished sight. Glaucoma rarely has observable symptoms except for slow vision loss. Herbal remedies can help in preventing this silent illness and improving eyesight.
Bilberry
Bilberry, according to the "National Geographic Desk Reference to Nature's Medicine," is a close relative of the cranberry and prized for its many health benefits. The plant has a taste similar to blueberries and its Danish name means, "dark berry." In modern herbal medicine, bilberry is best known for its powerful antioxidant qualities that, according to the book, are believed to enhance circulation, thus helping combat eye problems. Bilberry is recommended to improve visual acuity and prevent degenerative eye disorders such as glaucoma. The berries are gathered in late summer and used either fresh for their juice or dried to make extracts. Bilberries can also be used in capsules or pills.
Forskohlii
Forskohlii is a member of the mint family indigenous to the mountains of India, Nepal and Sri Lanka. The plant is often grown for decorative purposes because of its bright foliage in shades of red, yellow, green and purple. But forskohlii is also used for its medical benefits including to treat skin conditions, muscle cramping and bladder pain. In addition, forskohlii has been shown to lower high blood pressure and reduce pressure inside the eyes resulting from glaucoma. The leaves and the dried root of the plant can be used to make an infusion.
Calabar Bean
Because of its ability to reduce eye pressure, properties of calabar bean are widely used to treat glaucoma, according to the "National Geographic Desk Reference to Nature's Medicine." The herb relieves pressure by causing a sudden constriction of muscles in the pupil, explains the book. Calabar bean, also called Physostigma venenosum, is a woody plant native to West Africa cultivated in India and parts of South America. Seeds of the herb are generally collected and then dried for consumption.
References
- "National Geographic Desk Reference to Nature's Medicine"; Steven Foster and Rebecca L. Johnson; 2006
