Cataracts involve clouding of the lens of the eye. Typically, they develop slowly, as a result of age. They develop as a result of proteins and tissues clumping together, clouding the lens. While the exact cause of why these proteins bind together is not known, it may have to do with chemical changes in the lens. There are medications available and surgery to help delay or remove cataracts, but some individuals use herbs to help promote eye health, although the herbs cannot remove cataracts. Before using herbs, consult with your doctors about whether it is safe for you to consume them.
Step 1
Take bilberry capsules daily. The University of Maryland Medical Center suggests taking 80 to 480 mg daily, in two to three divided doses, in capsule form. The capsules should be standardized bilberry extract with 25 percent anthocyanidin, the highest dosage of these antioxidants found in bilberry.
Step 2
Consume ginkgo biloba, which contains antioxidant properties and helps stimulate blood flow. The University of Maryland Medical Center says to take 40 to 80 mg three times a day. This herb can increase bleeding in some people, especially those taking blood-thinning medications.
Step 3
Consume green tea or take green tea supplements, also known as Camellia sinensis. According to a study published in a 2002 edition of the journal "Ophthalmic Research," green tea helped protect against oxidative stress in rat lenses that underwent cataractogenesis, due to the strong antioxidant properties in the herb. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends taking a standardized extract of 250 to 500 mg daily, or preparing a tea two to four times a day, using noncaffeinated green tea products.
Tips and Warnings
- Taking a multivitamin and other antioxidants, like Coenzyme Q10 and omega-3 fatty acids, to help reduce inflammation that may accompany your cataracts. Ask your doctor what dietary changes can help with your condition, because nutrition can help with eye health.
- Talk to your ophthalmologist and your health care provider before using herbs to help treat cataracts. Some herbs can interact with prescription medications or certain medical conditions and cause adverse effects.
