Category: Eyes Care

Ayurvedic Treatment for Glaucoma with Herbal Remedies

ABSTRACT

Glaucoma, a group of eye conditions characterized by irreversible damage to the optic nerve, is one of the leading causes of blindness worldwide. Affecting over 70 million people globally, Glaucoma is often referred to as the silent thief of sight due to its ability to progress undetected, causing permanent vision loss before symptoms become apparent. So in this article, we will discuss how Glaucoma is caused, its types, and symptoms, how to diagnose it, and how it is treated with Modern and Ayurvedic principles.

Glaucoma, Symptoms of Glaucoma, Signs of Glaucoma, Diagnosis of Glaucoma, Ayurvedic Treatment for Glaucoma, Ayurvedic Approach, Herbal Remedies for Glaucoma, Treatment for Glaucoma, Causes of Glaucoma

INTRODUCTION

Glaucoma is a group of conditions that have a characterized optic neuropathy associated with visual field defects and elevated intraocular pressure. It is not a single disease process but a group of disorders characterized by progressive optic neuropathy resulting in a characteristic appearance of the disc and a specific pattern of irreversible visual field defects that are associated frequently but not invariably with raised intraocular pressure (IOP). Thus IOP is the most common risk factor but not the only risk factor for the development of Glaucoma. So simply we can say that Increased intraocular pressure which is created by the solid, liquid content of the eye and the elasticity of its coats is known as Glaucoma. The normal Intraocular pressure is 16 to 23 mm Hg.

FACTORS RESPONSIBLE FOR RISE OF IOP

  • Increased aqueous production
  • Decreased aqueous outflow due to obstruction of its drainage
  • External pressure on the eyeball

CAUSES

Glaucoma is a complex condition and its causes can be multifactorial. Here are some risk factors of glaucoma:

  • Age: Glaucoma risk increases especially after 40.
  • High BP: Hypertension can increase glaucoma.
  • Diabetes: Diabetes can also increase the risk of glaucoma.
  • Myopia: People with high myopia (nearsightedness) are at higher risk.
  • Eye Injuries: Traumatic eye injuries.
  • Steroid Use: Long-term use of steroids.

PATHOLOGICAL CAUSE

  • IOP is increased
  • Optic nerve damage
  • Aqueous humor dynamics

CLASSIFICATION

There are several types of Glaucoma each with distinct characteristics and causes:

1. OPEN-ANGLE GLAUCOMA

Open-angle glaucoma is the most common type, accounting for about 90% of all glaucoma cases. It is characterized by:

  • Gradual clogging of the drainage canal in the eye
  • Slow increase in IOP
  • Peripheral vision loss and blind spots in the advanced stages.

2. ANGLE CLOSURE GLAUCOMA

It is a less common but more severe type. It is characterized by:

  • Sudden blockage of the drainage canal in the eye
  • A rapid increase in IOP
  • Severe eye pain, Redness, and blurred vision.

3. CONGENITAL GLAUCOMA

Congenital glaucoma affects babies and is caused by:

  • Abnormal development of eye drainage
  • Increased IOP
  • Watering and sensitivity to light

4. SECONDARY GLAUCOMA

  • Eye injuries or Surgeries
  • Abnormal Eye Anatomy
  • Certain Medication

SYMPTOMS AND SIGNS OF GLAUCOMA

SYMPTOMS

  • Visual blurring
  • Haziness of vision
  • Rapid onset of severe eye pain
  • See halos around light
  • Headache
  • Vomiting

SIGNS

1. Primary Open-angle Glaucoma / Chronic Angle Closure Glaucoma

  • Elevate IOP (>21mmHg)
  • Visual field defects
  • Optic disc cupping

2. Acute Angle Closure Glaucoma

  • Red eyes and pupils may be large and non-reactive to light
  • High elevated IOP
  • Corneal swelling
  • Decrease visual acuity

DIAGNOSIS

  • Visual Acuity Test: To measure sharpness and clarity of vision.
  • Refraction Test: Determine the correct lens power for glasses or contact lenses.
  • Slit lamp Biomicroscopy: Examine the anterior segment of the eye including the cornea, iris, and lens.
  • Ophthalmoscopy: Examine the post segment of the eye including the Retina and Optic nerve.
  • Tonometry: To measure the IOP.
  • Gonioscopy: Examine the drainage angle of the eye.

TREATMENT

Its treatment aims to reduce the IOP slow disease progression and prevent vision loss.

  • Medication: Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors
  • Eye Drops: to reduce IOP
    • Prostaglandin analogs
    • Beta Blockers
    • Alpha agonist

AYURVEDIC APPROACH

According to Ayurveda, Glaucoma is correlated to ADHIMANTHA. According to Ayurveda, a severe pain in the eye is the prime symptom of Adhimantha. It is a disease of the eyes that mainly involves the vitiation of all doshas, with the dominance of Pitta and Rakta. It is characterized by symptoms such as itching, watering, and heaviness of the head which reflects the nature of the disease glaucoma. It is mainly caused by improper management or Neglect of the disease Abhishyanda which is mainly compared with ocular inflammation. This inflammation occurs due to the accumulation of Ama (Toxins) which mainly affects the channels of the eye.

CAUSES

  • Vataja: Pricking pain in eyes
  • Pitta: Burning pain in the eyes
  • Kaphaja: Heaviness and itching sensation in the eye
  • Rakhaja: Rakt prakopa vedna.

SAMANYA LAKSHAN

  • Severe pain in the eyes like scooping it from the orbit
  • Crushing type of pain or churning type of pain (Manthana vata shoola)
  • Half headache (Ardhav bhedk)
  • Vataja complication

BHED (TYPES)

1. VATIK ADIMANTHA (ACUTE CONGESTIVE GLAUCOMA)

  • It is a disease in which the patient has scooping type or breaking type or spastic type or pricking type or cutting type of pain in the eye.
  • Exudation
  • Foreign body sensation
  • Dirty appearance with Aadmana (increased tension in the eyeball)
  • Kampana (shivering)

2. PITTAJA ADIMANTHA (ACUTE CONGESTIVE GLAUCOMA)

  • Eye spread with red capillary net (Rakt rajechitham)
  • Watering of eyes (Netra srava)
  • Severe Burning sensation
  • Hyperemia of eyes like yakruth
  • Edema of eyelids (Varthma shopha)
  • Visualizes the things in yellow colour

3. KAPHAJA ADIMANTHA (SIMPLE CHRONIC GLAUCOMA OR CHRONIC CONGESTION GLAUCOMA)

  • Netra shoth (Oedema)
  • Srava (Lacrimation)
  • Kandu (Itching)
  • Shir ruja (Headache)
  • Difficulty in visualization and opening of eyelids

4. RAKTHAJ ADHIMANTHA (CONGESTIVE GLAUCOMA OR SECONDARY GLAUCOMA)

  • Eyes become red and discharge red secretion
  • Visualizes the objects in Red colour (Agnivath)
  • Severe pricking pain & burning sensation in eyes and head.

PROGNOSIS (According to Sushruta)

  • Vataj Adhimantha: Loss of vision in 6 Days
  • Pittaja Adhimantha: Loss of vision immediately
  • Kaphaj Adhimantha: Loss of vision in 7 days
  • Rakt Adhimantha: Loss of vision in 5 days

MANAGEMENT ACCORDING TO AYURVEDA

VATA

  • Snehpana with Acha ghrita, Purana ghrita
  • Nasya karma – Anutail, Ajadugdha boiled with mula, Kanda, and Patra of Erand used as eye drops
  • Swedana – Bashpa swedana

PITTA

  • Snehpan – Ghee mixed with Sarkara
  • Sramsana – With the decoction of Triphala, Trivrut
  • Parseka – Decoction of Lodhra, Yastimadhu

KAPHA

  • Ashyotan – Eye drops made with Nagr, Nimb, Triphala, Vasa, and Lodhra are used.
  • Rakt ashyotan – Churan of Kaseru and madhuka are wrapped in cloth and soaked in rainwater used as eye drops.

PROGNOSIS (According to Sushruta)

  • Vataj Adhimantha: Loss of vision in 6 Days
  • Pittaja Adhimantha: Loss of vision immediately
  • Kaphaj Adhimantha: Loss of vision in 7 days
  • Rakt Adhimantha: Loss of vision in 5 days

HERBAL REMEDIES FOR GLAUCOMA BY PLANET AYURVEDA

Planet Ayurveda is a GMP-certified company that offers a wide range of herbal medicines and supplements that cater to various health conditions and needs. Their products are made from natural and organic ingredients that are free from chemicals, preservatives, and additives. For Glaucoma, Planet Ayurveda has various products out of which we will discuss the prime ones.

Glaucoma, Symptoms of Glaucoma, Signs of Glaucoma, Diagnosis of Glaucoma, Ayurvedic Treatment for Glaucoma, Ayurvedic Approach, Herbal Remedies for Glaucoma, Treatment for Glaucoma, Causes of Glaucoma

PRODUCTS DESCRIPTION

1. ANGEL EYE VITALE CAPSULES

Angel eye Vitale is a capsule formation formed by magical herbs which include Amla (Emblica officinalis), Gotukola (Centella asiatica), Bhringraj (Eclipta alba). The Amla acts as an anti-inflammatory and also relaxes the eye muscles to reduce the pressure on the optic nerves. Gotukola may help to improve blood flow to the body, promote healthy vision and also reduce the IOP, and Bhringraj helps to improve vision by enhancing the health of the retina and optic nerves.

Dosage: One capsule twice daily

2. BILBERRY CAPSULES

Bilberry capsule is a capsule formation that is formed by a standardized extract of a single herb Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus). It mainly contains flavonoids and anthocyanins which have anti-inflammatory properties. It also improves vision, particularly in low light conditions and also reduces eye fatigue, and improves eye health.

Dosage: One capsule twice daily

3. GREEN ESSENTIAL

Green essential is a capsule formation which is formed by Grape seed (Vitis vinifera), Wheatgrass (Triticum sativum), Spirulina (Arthrospira), Green Tea (Camellia sinensis), and Amla (Emblica officinalis). Grape seeds contain Proanthocyanidins which provide protection against free radicals. It also slows down glaucoma progression and reduces the risk of vision loss. Wheatgrass has a high level of antioxidants including vitamin C and E which reduce oxidative stress and protects the eye. Spirulina has neuroprotective effects protecting the optic nerve and retina from glaucoma damage and also helps to improve vision by enhancing retina and optic nerve health. Green tea has antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties catechin in it ameliorates retinal ganglion and degeneration in glaucoma. Amla also acts as an anti-inflammatory.

Dosage: One capsule twice daily

4. AMALAKI RASAYAN

Amalaki rasayan is a capsule formulation and it is formed by the Standardized single herb Amalaki (Emblica officinalis). It gives numerous benefits to managing glaucoma like anti-inflammatory properties to reduce inflammation in the eyes alleviating glaucoma symptoms and also relax ciliary muscles reducing IOP and alleviating glaucoma symptoms.

Dosage: One capsule twice daily

CONCLUSION

In this article, we have discussed glaucoma which is a multifactorial eye disorder, By understanding the disease its cause, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment through the lens of Modern and Ayurvedic principles. In which the Ayurveda can heal the disease from the root cause can reduce symptoms of the disease by its roots. By which the individual can adopt a holistic approach to reduce IOP, alleviate symptoms and promote eye health.

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.