Natural Ways to Prevent Glaucoma

A recent human study published in the June 2011 issue of Life Extension has revealed some valuable natural ways to prevent glaucoma, a serious condition of the eyes that advances with little to no symptoms attached to it. Eventually, damage optic nerve becomes the result. A staggering 50% of those with glaucoma continue on without a diagnosis.

However, there's supportive new findings regarding interventions that are natural and can assist in prevention and perhaps reverse the effects of glaucoma. These were discussed in the Life Extension June 2011 article and were also revealed in the May 2010 issue of Clinical Opthamology.

Pine Bark and Bilberry

Supportive reinforcement on a molecular level may exist from two components that are active within this compound that can be found in combination formulas. These were found to assist with reducing the fluid build up within the eye and therefore the pressure.

French Maritime Pine Bark/Bilberry Extract

Standardized French maritime pinebark and bilberry extract was given orally, or both of these compounds combined with Latanoprost eye drops for 24 weeks to those participants of this study. These people were found to have increased pressure in the eyes, however they hadn't shown any significant symptoms of Open Angle Glaucoma which typically will show IOP, or intraocular pressure when having undergone a complete eye exam.

Decreased Ocular Pressure

After the 24 weeks of treatment was completed with a combination of both Latanoprost eye drops and Pine Bark and Bilberry extracts, it was determined that there was a 40% greater reduction in eye pressure than those participants that underwent the study with just Latanoprost alone. However there was also a significant drop in pressure for those that took the herbal combination on its own.

A Cure on the Horizon?

Unfortunately, there is currently no cure for glaucoma, however many cases could be prevented if early symptoms are taken seriously and identified, along with adequate treatment at that time that is consistent and followed through with the assistance of a proper healthcare practitioner. Researchers continue to look for other anti-oxidants that will be helpful to support fragile eye tissues and a healthy flow of fluid within the eyes.

Source: Life Extension Magazine June 2011 Issue