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The best herbs for eye health contribute to the proper functioning of the eyes through two mechanisms: locally applied to the eyes, they have an antiseptic and anti-inflammatory effect, which is helpful for eye hygiene, and in the case of conjunctivitis or other infectious or inflammatory afflictions of the anterior pole of the eye.
When the eye-health herbs are consumed orally, they supply vitamin A and anthocyanines, which improve visual acuity. Vitamin A is also needed to properly function the retinal cells, which are sensitive to light processes.
Anthocyanines are glycosidic substances that give some flowers and fruits their typical blue color. They have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory action and exert a protective effort on the capillaries, especially the retina. Thus, these substances improve blood circulation in the retina.
Moreover, anthocyanines favor the production of light-sensitive pigment in the retinal cells. Therefore, when consumed internally, herbs containing vitamin A and anthocyanines improve visual acuity and night vision.
Herbs for Eye Health
Top Herbs With Anthocyanines
The bilberry plant has the highest concentration of anthocyanines and has a higher effect on vision. However, other plants may be used as alternatives.
Common Eye Conditions
Conjunctivitis and Blepharitis: The conjunctiva is a delicate membrane that connects the eyeball and inner eyelid. It is usually transparent but turns a blood-red color when irritated or inflamed (conjunctivitis).
In most cases, microorganisms (viruses or bacteria) produce conjunctivitis and worsen upon exposure to smoke, dust, polluted water, or excessive light. Straining one’s eyes may also produce irritation or congestion in the conjunctiva.
Phytotherapeutic healing is based on the local application of anti-inflammatory, emollient, and antiseptic herbs. All emollient herbs are highly recommended. In chronic or constant cases, conjunctivitis may be associated with a lack of vitamin A or toxicity due to liver or kidney dysfunctions.
Blepharitis is the technical name for eyelid inflammation. In local application, it is treated with the same herbs as conjunctivitis. It is worth paying attention to the lack of nutrients, especially vitamin A, and trace elements such as iron.
Keratitis: This condition is inflammation of the cornea, a transparent disc approximately one millimeter thick covering the eyeball’s anterior part. Its seriousness depends on the fact that an inflamed cornea may become opaque and make vision more difficult. Apart from specialized treatment, these herbs, as well as those used for conjunctivitis, are recommended.
Sty: Sties are little furuncles on the edges of the eyelids. The treatment aims to make them ripe and open. Herbs recommended for conjunctivitis may also be applied in compresses over the eyelids.
Diminished vision: Herbs that protect the retina capillaries, such as bilberry or those containing the required vitamin A for light-sensitive cells, may improve visual acuity.
DISCLAIMER: All content on this website is presented solely for educational and informational objectives. Do not rely on the information provided as a replacement for advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified medical expert. If you are pregnant, nursing, or have any preexisting medical concerns, talk to your doctor before using any herbal or natural medicines.
REFERENCES
- George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. “Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants.” George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants. Ed. Francesc X. Gelabert. Vols. 1 San Fernando de Henares: Editorial Safeliz, 2000. 128, 130. Print. [herbs for eye health]
- https://www.gaiaherbs.com/blogs/seeds-of-knowledge/herbs-to-help-support-healthy-eyesight-and-protect-against-screen-fatigue
- https://www.sightsaversindia.org/blogs/2016/06/everything-need-know-herbs-eye-health/
- https://www.rightathome.net/blog/supplements-herbs-good-for-eye-health