Medications for some eye conditions, such as glaucoma, may cause irritation and other side effects. Certain types of eye disease may result in vision changes that treatment will not typically restore. As a result of medication side effects, or lack of treatment options, many people elect to use herbal remedies for eye conditions. Talk with your doctor before using any herbal supplements or remedies to determine the best way to care for your eyes.
Bilberry
Bilberry fruit is similar to the blueberry, and may have a number of medicinal uses. For the eye, bilberry may help prevent the progression of macular degeneration, a condition that destroys tissue on the back of the eye. Macular degeneration often results in permanent vision changes, and vision loss often leads to blindness. Some people also use bilberry for glaucoma. This condition occurs when your intraocular pressure is too high, and this damages the nerve fibers that make up your optic nerve, slowly leading to loss of vision. Bilberry could help strengthen the optic nerve, slowing down the disease process. If your doctor thinks bilberry could help prevent or treat eye conditions, she will inform you of the dose you will need each day.
Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo biloba, one of the oldest known tree species whose leaves are used medicinally, is used to treat a number of health conditions, such as enhancing memory and brain function. This extract may help promote a healthy circulatory system, which may help certain eye diseases. Ginkgo biloba may help slow down the progression of macular degeneration, and using the supplement may also help restore vision lost to glaucoma damage, reports the University of Maryland Medical Center. Talk with your doctor about the potential benefits and risks of using this supplement, and if he feels ginkgo may offer a good option, he will tell you the appropriate amount to take each day.
Grape Seed
Grape seed extract contains antioxidants, including vitamin E, which may help prevent eye conditions such as cataracts and macular degeneration. Some people believe grape seed extract may also prove beneficial in improving night vision, but this claim needs further research, states UMMC. If you think grape seed extract may help prevent damage to your vision from eye disease, or help improve your vision, discuss its use with your doctor prior to beginning this supplement. Your doctor will help you evaluate the risks and benefits, and if she feels grape seed may prove beneficial, she will recommend a dose.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Bilberry
- Glaucoma Research Foundation: Update on Alternative Glaucoma Medications
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Ginkgo Biloba
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Grape Seed
- Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center: Bilberry Fruit
- American Optometric Association: Diet and Nutrition
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