Top 12 Herbs for Healthy Eyes and Improved Vision
Our eyes are the window to the world! A perfect vision is something which is universally desired but is not always achieved. Vision problems, cataract, and several other aging related problems of eyes can be seen as we continue to grow. In today’s world there are many other factors as well which may have a negative impact on the health of the eyes. Good food and healthy lifestyle factors are the cornerstones of healthy and beautiful eyes. Among other things there are many herbs which can be taken for improving the vision or maintaining healthy eyes even after the aging process has ensued. The major problem with eye problems is that the symptoms do not become noticeable till the disease has taken a severe form. An individual taking good care of his food, using natural remedies to stay healthy and going for regular, routine eye checkups will have healthy eyes for a long time to come. It is also seen that an early detection and immediate and appropriate treatment can prevent many cases of loss of vision.
There may be a number of supplements and other drugs available for healthy eyes, but the natural remedy is the best and most safe one. In this article we discuss top 5 herbs which have been beneficial in improving the vision of the eyes and maintaining the health of the eyes.
Eyebright
Eyebright has been in use since a long time as a folk remedy for healthy eyes. It has been used in the form of teas, tinctures, and eye drops. Research studies have revealed that eye drops formed from eyebright herb help in faster recovery from conjunctivitis of the eye. It reduces the redness and the discharge released form the outer lining of the eye. It is considered to be beneficial in retinopathy drrn in diabetes patients. Eyebright is also the herb of choice for eyewashes.
Ginkgo
It has been reported that the use of Ginkgo can improve the blood flow to the retina. Researchs tudies have also shown that Ginkgo is beneficial in improving vision in patients suffering from glaucoma, It has antioxidant properties and also protects the nerve cells of the eyes.
The property of this herb in improving blood circulation to the eye make it a herb of choice when natural treatment of eye conditions such as peripheral vascular insufficiency and macular degeneration is considered.
Cannabis
Cannabinoids are the chemicals present in cannabis and among other benefits it can also reduce pressure within the eye in people with glaucoma. Studies have revealed that it can be beneficially used in the development of eye drops.
Green tea
The antioxidants present in green tea prevent the oxidative damage which is the reason for many diseases such as glaucoma, macular degeneration and cataracts. It has also been proven that the polyphenols present in the green tea can protect the retinal cells from the damage caused by ultraviolet light thus preventing the risk of macular degeneration.
Bilberry
Bilberry is another herb which has been used to enhance and improve the circulation to the eyes and skin around the eyes thus preventing the blood supply to the eyes. Bilberry is commonly used for the well-being of the eye. It has flavonoids in it which help in boosting the blood flow through the capillaries in the eyes. Bilberry helps in supporting the eyes in altering rapidly to the improvements in light and improves sharpness of the vision.
Bilberry is also helpful in preventing the progression of cataracts when used along with Vitamin E. it has been reported that bilberry can help in protecting the retina owing to its high bioflavonoid content. It also helps in improving poor night vision.
Stinging nettle
Stinging nettle is another herb which has been known to fight against inflammation and also offers help against itchy and red eyes. Stinging nettle contains many useful nutrients such as amino acids, sterols. Volatile oils, fatty acids, chlorophyll, B vitamins, Vitamin C and Vitamin K. Nettle leaves are known to prevent the production of prostaglandins and also bring down the release of a neurotransmitter chemical called as histamine which plays an essential role in the inflammatory cascade. It also neutralizes antigens in the body and provides relief from eye allergies which may be due to an eye infection.
Grape seed
Grape seed is excellent for improving the peripheral circulation in the eyes. It is also known to strengthen the capillaries. Research has provided some beneficial effects of grapeseed extract in improving the health of the eyes and also rectifying some eye problems owing to its antioxidant property. It is used as a protectant of retina cells in cases of night vision, it prevents or decelerates the development of the macular degeneration and also plays a significant role in preventing cataracts.
Carotenoids
Carotenoids are present in fruits and vegetables which have a distinct color. Carotenoids such as lutein are converted into the human body in Vitamin A and are known to be concentrated in the macula of the eye. It is used to prevent macular degeneration especially in middle aged individuals.
Chamomile
Chamomile is a herb which has been used as a remedy for the dry eyes. Bags soaked in chamomile tea bags are kept on both the eyes for their soothing effect. They are helpful in reducing the redness and swelling around the eyes. It can be used as a compress for the eyes as well.
Chamomile has a gentle and soothing effect on the eyes and the delicate skin around it. It also helps the eyes which have been tired due to overuse.
Goldenseal
Goldenseal is the traditional remedy for sties and conjunctivitis. It has antibacterial effect and is a potent herb which is used to reduce the inflammation and has been used traditionally in treating the eye irritation due to the effect of smoke. Goldenseal has been cited to be a sovereign remedy for sore eyes.
Fennel
The seeds of fennel are found to beneficial for eyes. Slightly crushed fennel seeds are good for the inflammation of the eyes. Fennel decoction prepared with the help of crushed fennel seeds is extremely beneficial for healthy eyes. Recently conducted research studies have also brought forth that fennel seed extract can reduce the eye pressure and hence the condition of glaucoma. Another research study has also shown that fennel seed extracts can also play a significant role in preventing diabetic retinopathy.
Mint
Mint is an herb which has been found to be useful in the alleviating the dark circles beneath the eyes. The mint infusion is dabbed on the dark area with the help of cotton. Mint is also used in combination with other essential oils such as jojoba oil, lavender oil and Aloe Vera for treating the dark circles below the eyes. It is used in the form of mint oil, fresh mint juice. It is also a component of many marketed natural cosmetic products.
These herbs have been used traditionally for eyes and have also been supported by current scientific and research data. Do not forget to store these herbs in your kitchen for their amazing benefits on your eyes. If you are seeing a doctor for some eye problem, do not forget to inform about the herbs that you are planning to use for eyes. Always use the recommended form and dosage of the herb for their effective benefits and safety profile.
Category: HEALTH