The macula sits in the center of the retina and has the responsibility for clear central vision, such as vision used for reading and face recognition. In some people, usually as a result of age, the macula breaks down or abnormal vessels may leak under the macula, causing the macula to swell. These conditions, called macular degeneration, may result in permanent vision damage. Anyone concerned about the condition should know about the herbs and supplements used to prevent this condition.
Ginkgo Biloba
Flavonoids found in ginkgo biloba may help prevent or slow down the damage caused by macular degeneration, explains the University of Maryland Medical Center. For the full benefit of the herb, a person should take 160mg to 240mg each day. Ginkgo biloba may have blood-thinning effects, and this herb may complicate certain medical conditions. People who use blood thinners should discuss ginkgo biloba with their family doctor since the blood-thinning effect of ginkgo in addition to prescription blood thinners may result in serious health complications.
Bilberry
Bilberry contains a high amount of flavonoids, and many people use this herb to prevent macular degeneration. Researchers link the flavonoids in ginkgo biloba with those found in bilberry, but they have not researched whether bilberry has a similar effect in reducing the risk or damage of macular degeneration, states the University of Maryland Medical Center.
If a person chooses to use bilberry, she should discuss the herb with a health care professional to determine if using the herb will interact or affect other medications. A person using bilberry will take 120mg to 240mg twice a day.
Supplements
Besides herbs, many eye doctors recommend taking a specially formulated supplement that contains high levels of antioxidants and zinc to help prevent and minimize damage from macular degeneration. Many drugstores carry "eye vitamins" with a label stating the product is an AREDS formula, which stands for Age-Related Eye Disease Study. These supplements should contain the study's recommended dose of 500mg of vitamin C, 400 IU of vitamin E, 15mg of beta-carotene, 80mg of zinc and 2mg of copper, lists the National Eye Institute.
