From reading and working on screens to adjusting to changing light, the amount of stress our eyes endure every day is unimaginable. Doctors suggest that a balanced diet, adequate sleep, regular eye examinations, and protection from excessive UV exposure are primary foundations of healthy vision. But in traditional circles, certain herbs are used as complementary aids for eye wellness. Most natural herbs for eyesight are rich in antioxidants and plant compounds that support the body's natural defence against oxidative stress, which can damage the eyes over time. However, evidence for herbal supplements specifically preventing or treating eye diseases remains limited, so should they complement professional eye care or not? Let’s understand this in detail.
Why Are Herbs Considered Helpful for Eye Health?
Oxidative stress is a key cause of damage to our body cells in several ways. This also includes those in the eyes. Here is where herbs can be an ally for eye health and reducing early macular degeneration. They contain polyphenols, flavonoids, and other antioxidant compounds; therefore, their potential role in supporting eye health cannot be completely ignored. However, promising antioxidant properties may not automatically mean that a herb can prevent vision loss or treat an eye condition.
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The following herbs have been used since ancient times as a remedy for eye care. Even today, they are being studied for their vision-enhancing properties:
Eyebright
Eyebright (Euphrasia) has a long history of traditional use for eye comfort. It is commonly associated with soothing tired or irritated eyes, although strong clinical evidence supporting these benefits is lacking.
Available forms: Herbal tea, dried herb, and oral supplements are available. Do not put homemade eyebright preparations directly into the eyes because they are not sterile.
Bilberry
Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus) is anthocyanins rich plant promoted for vision and eye wellness in traditional wellness rituals. But more research is needed for this herb to be called a potent herb for curing eye diseases.
Available forms: Fresh or dried berries, powders, capsules, tablets and standardized extracts.
Ginkgo Biloba
A popular Chinese plant, Ginkgo is well known for its potential effects on circulation and even treating general eye conditions. However, research examining ginkgo biloba exclusively for age-related macular degeneration remains inconclusive. Thus, it should not be considered an established eye treatment.
Available forms: Standardized leaf extracts, tablets, capsules and liquid extracts.
Amla
Amla, also called Indian gooseberry, is naturally rich in vitamin C and plant antioxidants. Traditionally valued in Ayurveda, it can contribute antioxidant nutrients to the diet. Although treating specific eye conditions remains limited, amla has been used to enhance vision health in Ayurvedic wellness, especially when consumed orally.
Available forms: Fresh fruit, dried fruit, powder, juice, and capsules or tablets.
Triphala
A traditional Ayurvedic blend of Amla, Haritaki and Bibhitaki, Triphala is valued in Ayurveda as a traditional wellness blend, with its use for eye care rooted in centuries-old practices and its natural antioxidant properties. Primarily based on traditional Ayurvedic practices rather than proven clinical benefits, it is still being evaluated.
Available forms: Powder
Also Read: Vision Health: Protect Your Eyes With These 5 Natural Hacks- Infographic
Precautions Before Using Herbs As Eye Health Supplements
While herbs in the form of natural eye care are a great add-on for improving eye health, natural does not always mean risk-free. Herbal supplements can interact with prescription and over-the-counter medicines. Moreover, the safety of some products may not have been thoroughly established. Children, older adults taking multiple medicines, and people with chronic health conditions or pregnant women should consult a healthcare professional. Most importantly, never use powders, extracts or homemade herbal teas as eye drops. Also, products intended for oral consumption may not be suitable for application to the eyes and can cause harmful effects.
Conclusion:
Eyebright, bilberry, ginkgo, triphala and amla can be explored as complementary herbs for overall wellness, particularly because several contain antioxidant plant compounds. However, they are not substitutes for a nutritious diet, regular eye examinations or prescribed treatment. Current evidence does not establish these herbs as treatments for major eye diseases. For diagnosed conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration, always follow your eye-care professional's advice and treatment plan. Never self-treat or rely purely on herbal supplements.
References:
https://cehjournal.org/
Eye Care for All
Mrittika Sen 1, Santosh G Honavar
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9675524/
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