Author: Dr. Vikram Chauhan

Herbal Remedies For Optic Neuritis

Abstract

Optic neuritis (ON), which is primarily idiopathic, is characterised by inflammation of the optic nerve. An optic nerve is a collection of nerve fibres that transmits visual data from the eye to the brain. When the optic nerve becomes inflamed and swollen, optic neuritis results. The purpose of this study is to provide an overview of the most recent data on optic neuritis, its differential diagnosis, and its treatment. This study aims to compile the most recent data on optic neuritis, its differential diagnosis, and treatment.

 Optic Neuritis

Introduction

Optic neuritis (ON) is the most prevalent form of optic neuropathy in patients under the age of 50 who visit a general ophthalmologist. It is characterised by subacute unilateral painful visual loss that is typically present in young, healthy females and excludes glaucoma. On the basis of the genesis of the disease, optic neuritis is broadly classified as typical or atypical. While atypical optic neuritis is unrelated to multiple sclerosis (MS), normal optic neuritis is highly connected with MS. The genesis, pathophysiology, and treatments of the two types vary. A correct differential diagnosis is essential to effective clinical therapy. A new optic neuritis episode as well as the first occurrence or relapse of existing MS may be prevented or delayed by disease-modifying medications.

Causes

The exact cause of ON is unknown. It is thought to start when your immune system accidentally attacks the material that covers your optic nerve, causing inflammation and myelin damage. Normal myelin function speeds up the transmission of electrical impulses from the eye to the brain, where they are translated into visual information. Optic neuritis interferes with this mechanism, impairing vision.

Some autoimmune conditions are also responsible for optic neuritis.

  • Multiple sclerosis

In people with multiple sclerosis, the autoimmune system attacks the myelin covering that shields the nerve fibres in their brain. One bout of optic neuritis increases a person’s lifetime risk of developing multiple sclerosis by 50%.

  • Myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG) antibody disorder

The spinal cord, brain, and optic nerve may all become inflamed as a result of this illness. Recurrent episodes of inflammation can happen, much like in MS and neuromyelitis optica. Attacks on the myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG) typically lead to better recovery than neuromyelitis Optica.

Associated Problems

  • Infections

Optic neuritis can be caused by bacterial conditions including Lyme disease, cat scratch fever, and syphilis, as well as viruses like measles, mumps, and herpes.

  • Different diseases

Recurrent optic neuritis can result from a number of illnesses, including lupus, Behcet’s disease, and sarcoidosis.

  • Medications and toxins

Some drugs and chemicals have been related to ocular neuritis, like ethambutol and methanol.

Symptoms Of Optic Neuritis

Optic neuritis generally affects one eye. Symptoms are as follows

  • Pain

The majority of patients with optic neuritis experience eye pain that gets worse with eye movement. Behind the eye, pain might occasionally feel like a dull ache.

  • Loss of vision in one eye

The majority of people experience transient vision loss, but to varying degrees. Visible vision loss typically starts over a few hours or days and becomes better over the course of a few weeks or months. Some may experience irreversible vision loss.

  • Visual field impairment

Any pattern of side vision loss, such as central vision loss or peripheral vision loss, is possible.

  • Vision loss for colours

Colour perception is often impacted by optic neuritis. You could notice that colours don’t seem as bright as they usually do.

  • Lights that flash

Some optic neuritis sufferers claim to experience flashing or flickering lights when moving their eyes.

Diagnosis

  • Regular vision testing
  • Ophthalmoscopy
  • A visual field test
  • A visual-evoked response test
  • A blood test
  • An optical coherence tomography scan
  • A pupillary light reaction test
  • Magnetic resonance imaging

Management

Whether or not treatment is initiated, visual function will gradually return to levels that are close to normal over the course of a few weeks to months.

Other medications

  • Intravenous methylprednisolone
  • Oral prednisone

Risk Factors

  • Age : Adults aged 20 to 40 are most frequently affected by optic neuritis.
  • Sex : Optic neuritis is substantially more common in women than in men.
  • Race : In Caucasian people, optic neuritis occurs more frequently.
  • Genetic changes : The chances of getting optic neuritis or multiple sclerosis may rise as a
    result of specific genetic alterations.

Complications

  1. Optic nerve damage.
  2. Decreased visual acuity.
  3. Side effects of treatment.

Ayurvedic View

In Ayurvedic Ophthalmology, Optic Neuritis symptoms are usually seen in cases of Vataja Timir, which affects the first and second patala of the eye, Vata viparya, and Anyota Vata. The most often occurring causes of vata vitiation are Dhatu Kshaya and Vegadharan. The degradation of the nerves and other ocular components becomes apparent at this point. Extreme physical and mental stress is another factor that coexists with Vata Prakopa.

Management

  • Yapana Basti (specific type of medicated anema)
  • Virechan (medicated purgations)
  • Nasya are the purification procedures (medicated nasal drops)
  • Netra Tarpan (procedure for rehydration of the eyes)
  • Aschyotan (instillation of the drug in the form of drops into the eyes)
  • Putapaka (lukewarm medicated juice (swarasa) prepared with the help of putapaka vidhi is made to stay stagnant in the eyes for a speculated time with the help of a prepared frame)
  • Pariseka (steaming of the eyes)
  • Pindi (packing medicines or medicated pastes in a thick cotton cloth and keeping them tightly over the eyelids)
  • Vidalaka (medicated herbal paste applied over the eyelids, leaving eyelashes for a prescribed time at a prescribed thickness)

These are only a few of the ocular therapies that are quite effective in restoring vision.

Herbal Remedies For Optic Neuritis By Planet Ayurveda

The well-known Ayurvedic Company Planet Ayurveda is US-FDA registered, GMP-approved, and ISO 9001:2015 certified. It produces the typical ayurvedic medicines mentioned in the classic ayurvedic literature. The medications are created without any preservatives or ingredients that might harm someone’s health. Products that are made are unadulterated because they are pure. Optic neuritis has been successfully treated using a number of ayurvedic formulations created by Planet Ayurveda that are safe and effective.

Product List

  1. Gotu Kola Capsules
  2. Neurogenie Capsules
  3. Amalaki Rasaya
  4. Bilberry Capsules
  5. Angel Eye Vitale

 Optic Neuritis

Product Description

1. Gotukola Capsules

Centella asiatica (also known as gotu kola) is used in the formulation of Planet Ayurveda’s gotu kola capsules, which are single herbal capsules. It might help with the treatment of dry eyes by opening up the pathways to the eyes and promoting the generation of more tears. Gotu kola may help prevent eyesight loss by promoting the generation of rhodopsin in the retina. It helps with anxiety and despair. It alleviates fear and hopelessness. It treats burns and wounds while maintaining a healthy blood flow. The blood circulation has improved. It helps with both sleeplessness and mental impairment. It benefits the treatment of aging-related mental diseases in older people and helps maintain mental clarity.

Dosage : Two capsules, twice daily.

2. Neurogenie Capsules

Planet Ayurveda created the multi-herbal formulations known as Neurogenie capsules using standardised extracts of Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) and Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) . The brain and nervous system benefit from the tonic qualities of ashwagandha. Ashwagandha increases stamina and strength while protecting against all types of weakness. The outcome is stronger muscles. Brahmi has antioxidant properties as well as the ability to enhance focus, memory, and learning. To treat the vitiated vata dosha, which governs the neurological system, it is a preferred drug. Brahmi increases the capacity of the mind to concentrate and learn.

Dosage : Two capsules, twice daily.

3. Amalaki Rasayan

Planet Ayurveda created Amalaki rasayan, a single herbal capsule using Emblica officinalis (Amalaki). Vitamin C is abundant in amla and is beneficial for treating eye conditions. The ocular muscles are strengthened, and the eyes are nourished. A cooling and calming effect is provided by amalaki. It facilitates tridoshas’ tranquilization and intensifies pitta dosha’s work. In addition to having analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, it has a wealth of natural antioxidants.

Dosage : Two capsules, twice daily.

4. Bilberry Capsules

Single herbal capsules called “bilberry capsules” are made by Planet Ayurveda using a standardised bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus) extract. Bilberry may help avoid retinal damage. Eye floaters may be lessened or even eliminated by bilberry. Bilberries may reduce intraocular pressure in those with controlled primary open-angle glaucoma. Dry eyes may benefit from bilberries. Bilberries may help with this exceedingly unique ailment of the light-sensitive.

Dosage : One capsule, twice daily.

5. Angel Eye Vitale

Planet Ayurveda created the multi-herbal compound known as Angel Eye Vitale with the use of extracts from the plants Emblica officinalis (Amla), Centella asiatica (Gotu kola), and Eclipta alba (Bhringraj). Eye illnesses and other related problems can benefit from it. Therapy for eye strain may benefit from it. Amalaki strengthens the ocular muscles and nourishes the eyes. Regarding vision problems and other eye diseases, Bhringraj may be helpful. Gotu kola may assist in preventing eyesight loss.

Dosage : One capsule, twice a day.

Contact Planet Ayurveda Support Team to provide you the costing/ordering and delivery information at – costing.planetayurveda@gmail.com or Call at 0172-521-4040 (India), +91-172-521-4040 (Outside India) or Whatsapp at (+91) 842-749-4030.

Conclusion

Optic neuritis (ON) is the most prevalent form of optic neuropathy. Typically prevalent in young, healthy females, it is characterised by subacute, unilateral, painful vision loss. This study’s objective is to present a summary of the most recent information on optic neuritis, its differential diagnoses, and its therapies. The objective of this study is to assemble the most recent information on optic neuritis, its differential diagnoses, and therapies.

Natural Treatment for Migraine with herbal remedies

Abstract

Due to rising urbanisation, people’s way of life has altered in modern times. Stress is creating an increase in the frequency of both acute and chronic diseases as a result of altered work expectations for a better quality of life. One of the chronic illnesses that affects a large portion of the population and has a range of severity is migraine. A multitude of autonomic nervous system symptoms that interfere with daily life, including recurrent mild to severe headaches, describe this chronic neurological condition. There are numerous varieties of Shiro Rogas (head diseases) reported by Acharyas in Ayurvedic scriptures. The clinical characteristics of Ardhavabhedaka, among them, are strikingly similar to those of migraine. Millions of people suffer from the neurological pain disease known as migraine. It is the most prevalent neurological condition that significantly affects the brain and, as a result, the behaviours linked to recurrent migraine attacks. Premigraine, intermigraine, and post migraine processes are connected to migraine stress. Understanding migraine requires knowing how typically painless stimuli like light can make it worse and how a migraine headache can change how sensitive skin is (allodynia), which can affect the entire body. Advanced imaging methods have provided fresh insights into the disease’s causes by revealing changes in the brain’s structure and function. In addition to migraines with and without aura, childhood periodic syndromes, retinal migraine, consequences of migraine, and probable migraine, migraine headaches are a broad collection of illnesses.

Migraine

Introduction

A migraine is described as “an episodic headache associated with certain features, such as sensitivity to light, sound, or movement” or “a recurring syndrome of headache associated with other symptoms of neurologic dysfunction in varying admixtures”. Resistant migraines (defined as having tried at least three classes of preventatives and experiencing at least eight days of incapacitating headaches per month for at least three months without improvement) and refractory migraines (defined as having tried every preventative method and experiencing at least eight days of incapacitating headaches per month for at least six months) are the two types of migraines. Additionally, various syndromes that have variable clinical manifestations, durations, and prevalence, such as somnambulism, cyclic vomiting, abdominal migraine, benign paroxysmal vertigo, benign paroxysmal torticollis, and confusional migraine, can be connected to migraines. The premonitory phase, brief neurological symptoms (i.e., migraine aura), severe headache attack, and postdrome phase are some of the phases of the cyclical condition known as migraine. Additionally, migraine is a debilitating condition that affects a person’s ability to work, engage in academic and social activities, as well as their family and personal connections.

Types

There are two primary forms of migraine

  1. A migraine without an aura is characterised by recurrent headache attacks that last 4 to 72 hours, are unilateral in location, have a pulsating character, are moderate to severe in severity, are aggravated by physical activity, are accompanied by nausea, and are sensitive to light and sound (photophobia and phonophobia).
  2. Attacks of migraine with aura that are recurrent and entirely reversible frequently involve one or more of the unilateral symptoms of vision, hearing, speech, motor function, brainstem, and retina. Other migraine symptoms including headaches are commonly present as well.
  3. A chronic migraine is a headache that lasts longer than three months and has at least eight days with symptoms resembling a migraine.

Causes And Triggers

  • Sudden changes in weather or environment
  • Too much or not enough sleep
  • Strong odors or fumes
  • Emotional Stress Overexertion
  • Loud or sudden noises
  • Motion sickness
  • Low blood sugar
  • Skipped meals
  • Tobacco
  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Head trauma
  • Hangover
  • Some medications
  • Hormonal changes
  • Bright or flashing lights

Symptoms

  • The most common side of the head is frequently affected by sudden, sharp headache pain
  • Other symptoms include nausea, confusion, impaired vision, mood swings, exhaustion, and heightened sensitivity to light, sound, and commotion

Complications

  • A crippling migraine attack known as status migrainosus lasts longer than 72 hours.
  • An aura that lasts longer than a week without showing signs of infarction on neuroimaging is referred to as a persistent aura without infarction.
  • One or more of the aura symptoms that are linked to brain ischemia on neuroimaging during a typical migraine episode is known as migrainous infarction.
  • An attack of migraine with an aura can cause a seizure, which is known as a migraine aura-triggered seizure.

Management

  • The goal of migraine treatment is to lessen symptoms and prevent new attacks. There are expedient treatments for symptoms, including
  • Putting your eyes closed and finding a calm, dark area to sleep
  • Applying a cool cloth or an ice pack to the forehead
  • Consuming lots of drinks, especially if your migraine is causing you to vomit
  • Small doses of caffeine may help ease migraine symptoms in the early stages
  • Acute and preventative pharmacological therapies are available for migraines. Acute or “abortive” medications are administered as soon as symptoms start to show in order to alleviate pain and restore function. Preventive treatment aims to minimise the severity of impending attacks or stop them altogether.

Ayurvedic View

It is correlated with Ardhavbhedak in Ayurveda. Ardhavabhedaka is one of the Shiroroga (head disorders) that has symptoms similar to migraine, including paroxysmal unilateral (half cranial) headaches that can occasionally be accompanied by vertigo, nausea, photophobia, and phonophobia. According to Acharya Sushruta, Tridosha (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha) vitiation is the cause of Ardhavabhedaka. While Acharya Vagbhatta thought that vitiated Vata caused Ardhavabhedaka to occur, Acharya Charaka stated that vitiated Vata and Vata-Kapha are involved in the manifestation of Ardhavabhedaka.

Nidan

The second and third decades of life are when migraines most frequently occur, and women are more prone than males to experience them. The aetiology of migraines is unknown. But it is believed that both hereditary and environmental factors play a role.

The first is Aaharaja Nidana (dietary causes)

  • Overeating Ruksha Bhojana (dry, coarse food)
  • Overeating Adhyashan (eating when indigestion is present)
  • Skipping meals/Fasting/Hunger
  • Ati ambupana (excessive hydration) and Ati madyapana (overdrinking) are two examples.
  • Viharaja Nidana (causes related to habits and employment)
  • Pragavata (easterly wind) affliction, extreme exposure to frost, high altitude, and fluctuations in barometric pressure
  • Controlling natural inclinations, particularly those of Mutravega, Purishavega, Kshavathuvega, and Nidravega
  • Diva Swapna (day sleeping) after eating or Ratri Jagran (overnight awakening) are examples of changes in sleep patterns
  • Other examples include Ati Maithuna (excessive coitus) and Atibhashya (overtalking).
  • Staying in unsanitary surroundings; excessive exposure to sunlight or bright light
  • Hormonal (changes in the menstrual cycle, oral contraceptive pills, etc.)

Cardinal Symptoms

In the Ardhavabhedaka Roga, all the Acharyas have referred to the Vedana (pain) in the Ardheshirsha (the lower half of the head). Therefore, the Ardhavabhedaka Pratyatma Linga must cause “pain in the half of the region of the head.

General Symptoms

The following are lakshanas, according to several acharyas

  • Half of the Manya (cervical region), Bhru (eye brows), Shankha (temporal region), Karna (ears), Akshi (eyes), and Lalata (frontal head) regions are in excruciating pain.
  • Intense pain that is burning and throbbing, together with vertigo and bewilderment (brahma),
  • The illness begins to manifest every 15 days, every 10 days, or every month, and then goes away on its own. Chakshu-Virajyata (Redness of Eyes), Gandashotha (Swelling over the Zygomatic Area), and Shankhamoola Darana (Tearing Pain in Temporal Regions)
  • The sun’s ascent elevates Ardhashirsha Vikara.
  • The condition may eventually impair both sight and hearing if it progresses.

Management

Avoiding Causative Factors (Nidana Parivarjana)

The first and most effective treatment for preventing and treating Ardhavabhedaka is Nidana Parivarjana. Avoiding the things that are known to cause Ardhavabhedaka is advised.

Some Other Procedures

  1. Shiro Virechana Karma (Nasya Procedure) –
    The medicine is given through the nostrils during Nasya Karma treatment. Oils mixed with medications in the form of powder, liquid, or paste may have an irritating impact on the nasal mucosa and are utilised for this purpose. Depending on the severity and chronicity of the ailment, Nasya karma can be performed for 7–21 days.
  2. In Ardhavabhedaka, Niruha Basti prepared with Vatanashaka medications should be administered first, followed by Anuvasana Basti made of Ghrita, Taila, and other herbs.
  3. Shiro-Basti In Shiro Basti, a cranial pouch or cuff is made and filled with medicinal oil for around 1 muhurta (48 minutes). Medicated oils like Dashmool taila and four different varieties of Sneha, such as ghrita, taila vasa, majja, etc. are utilised in Ardhavabhedaka Vata or Vatakaphanashaka.

Herbal Remedies For Migraine By Planet Ayurveda

Pure herbal medications are created by the herbal pharmaceutical firm Planet Ayurveda. The business has GMP certification. Every preparation is carried out in a wholly Ayurvedic manner. Pure herbal formulations free of contaminants or adulterants are created by the company. The business offers several medications for various ailments.

  1. Brahmi Capsules
  2. Ashwagandha Capsules
  3. Pitta Balance
  4. Arogyavardhini vati
  5. Medhya Churna

Migraine

Product Description

1. Brahmi Capsules

This is an amazing preparation of Planet Ayurveda, which consists only of Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) as the main ingredient. In particular, headaches that begin in the temples and progress to the centre of the head might be relieved by massaging the head with Brahmi leaf paste or oil. This is due to Brahmi’s Sita (cold) potency. It lessens headaches and aids in removing things that aggravate Pitta.

Dosage : Twice daily, take 1-2 capsules with a glass of water after meals.

2. Ashwagandha Capsules

The primary ingredient in this Planet Ayurveda composition is Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera).
Ashwagandha has potent rejuvenating effects that boost energy and vitality. It is well known for the characteristics of its herbal extract. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that have been shown to be effective in the homoeopathic treatment of migraines. Stress, which can increase or even start migraines, can be reduced with the aid of this plant. Although ashwagandha pills can treat migraines, ayurvedic migraine medications like this one are the greatest way to utilise the medicinal benefits of this herb.

Dosage : Take 1-2 capsules with a glass of water after meals, twice daily.

3. Pitta Balance

This incredible Planet Ayurveda combination contains ingredients like Giloy Satva (Tinospora cordifolia), JaharMohra Pishti (a natural calcium compound), and many others. Giloy is a well-known anti-inflammatory agent for neurons. Additionally, it enhances learning and memory skills. The body receives strength and sustenance from it as well. The physiological functions of the muscles and nerves are normalised by giloy.

Dosage : Twice daily, take 1-2 capsules with a glass of water after meals.

4. Arogyavardhini Vati

This is the formulation of Planet Ayurveda which consists of many ingredients like Shuddha Parada (Herbal purified Mercury), Shuddha Gandhak (Herbal purified Sulphur), Loha Bhasma (Ash prepared from Iron), and some others also. It includes anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties. It also helps in boosting immunity. Therefore, it can be prescribed in migraine pain.

Dosage : With lukewarm water and 1-2 pills twice or three times each day

5. Medhya Churna

With constituents like Vacha (Acorus calamus), Ashwgandha (Withania somnifera), Ajmoda (Carum roxburghianum), and many others, it is a superb composition from Planet Ayurveda. Medhya churna is helpful for lowering anxiety and boosting confidence. It is an herbal medicine that helps the nervous system. Additionally, it enhances mental processes and memory abilities. Additionally, it helps with attention, concentration, and mental clarity.

Dosage : 1 spoon of cow ghee (clarified butter) and 1/4 teaspoon once daily.

Conclusion

The neurologic condition known as migraine, which is both highly common and incapacitating, causes recurrent attacks of intense headaches as well as the accompanying symptoms of activity interference, nausea or vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. This illness’s frequent pharmaceutical use may cause a condition known as medication overuse headache, in which headaches worsen and occur more frequently. Therefore, ayurvedic medication should be chosen in cases of migraine since it not only lessens symptoms but also stops additional negative effects.