Vision is an integral part of most people's lives, but eye diseases and other conditions can damage this important sense. Regular eye examinations will help detect the early signs of a problem, but you should also contact your doctor if you experience changes in vision or comfort between scheduled exams. Your doctor can recommend treatments if necessary, or, if you prefer an herbal approach, you can discuss herbs that may offer some potential help for your condition.
Infections
Eye infections, such as conjunctivitis, can result from sources such as a virus, bacteria or fungus. These infections often result in redness, irritation, itching and inflammation. Some types of viral eye infections, such as viral conjunctivitis, may not respond to medications. In such cases, your doctor may recommend allowing the infection to run its course. You may consider talking with your doctor about the possible benefits of herbs such as licorice root, an herbal supplement that may offer some relief for infections, including viral infections. Eyebright is an herb that may help treat some of the symptoms associated with eye infections, such as inflammation and redness.
Inflammation
Inflammation of the eyelids or the outer surface of the eye can occur with an infection, but you can have inflammation inside your eye as well. This can occur in the iris, a condition known as iritis, or other structures of the eye. Inflammation may cause pain, redness and vision changes. Eyebright may help reduce inflammation associated with infections or other conditions, such as iritis. Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties that may also relieve inflammation associated with eye conditions, and grape seed may also help minimize inflammation. Other herbs with these properties include flaxseed, bilberry and turmeric.
Prevention
Many conditions can affect your eyes, resulting in vision changes. These conditions include macular degeneration and cataracts, among many others, but certain herbs could help prevent these conditions. The antioxidant properties in grape seed extract and bilberry, for example, could prevent the tissues of the macula, an area on the back of your eye, from deteriorating, and this could reduce your risk of permanent vision loss. Cataracts occur when the proteins break down in the lens located inside your eye, and the antioxidant properties could slow this progressive condition.
Considerations
If you suspect that you have an eye condition, consult your doctor before you begin any herbal treatment. She can examine your eyes and identify the cause of your symptoms. You and your doctor can then discuss your treatment options, including herbs that could offer some treatment benefits or protection against eye diseases. If you take medications or have a health condition, some herbs may not work for you, and these supplements could result in serious side effects.
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