Your eyes are important, they are the “windows to the soul” after all, so it is important that you cherish and take care of them. Certain steps, such as wearing sunglasses and a hat when you are outdoors, managing your stress levels, avoiding cigarette smoke, eating well and maintaining a healthy weight are almost a given. This is the normal advice that one would give or take in regards to caring for their eyes. However, there are some medicinal plants that you can ingest that are worth incorporating into your daily routine. Interested? If you want to try another approach to preventative measures, try out some of these herbs that can help support healthy eyes!
Green Tea (Camellia sinensis)
Popular in Japan, green tea is chock full of vitamins and contains antioxidants, which eliminate free radicals, which are the underlying factor for many chronic diseases, including glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration. In addition, studies have shown that by treating retinal cells with green tea’s polyphenols protects them from damage from ultraviolet light, which raises the risk for macular degeneration, and contributes to cataracts.
Coleus (Coleus forskohli)
Coleus contains forskolin, and eye drops made from forskolin have been shown to reduce the production of fluid within the eye, and as a result, reduces pressure. With its ability to reduce pressure, it would be helpful for those individuals who suffer from glaucoma.
Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba)
Research suggests that ginkgo can improve vision in people with glaucoma. Besides improving blood flow to the retina (the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye), ginkgo is full of antioxidants and protects nerve cells, such as the ones located in the eyes.
Eyebright (Euphrasia officinalis)
If the name itself didn’t give it up, eyebright is known for being good for the eyes-it is in the name! In a study it was discovered that eye drops made from eyebright sped up the recovery time for conjunctivitis, a condition that results in redness and discharge cause by irritation of the outside lining of the eyes. It was also found to lower blood sugar in diabetic rats, and diabetes raises the risks for several eye diseases.