Herbal Cure for Retinal Swelling

Have you experienced blurry vision? Are you seeing objects in double? You might have a condition called cystoid macular edema (CME), or retinal swelling, in one or both of your eyes. The condition often occurs after cataract surgery is performed. In some cases, CME can be attributed to diabetes or high doses of medication in the body. While typical treatments include medications, eyedrops, injections or sometimes even surgery, there are some herbal supplements to treat CME.

What is CME?

• CME occurs when there is fluid build-up between the layers of the macular retina. The macula, a part of the eye primarily made of cells, is used to translate small objects you see to the brain. When the retina swells, these fine objects become blurred. Some individuals with CME report seeing disfigured lines and shapes. Others see strange forms of light. Usually, a quick visit to your eye doctor can get to the root of the problem and fix it with oral medication, an injection or eye drops. If you would rather take an all-natural approach to relieve CME, there are some herbal treatments you can try.

Bilberry

• Bilberry, a member of the blueberry family, is a European and West Asian fruit known for its promising healing powers, especially for eye problems. Bilberries are responsible for enhancing vision by strengthening and protecting the retina against conditions like CME. Try eating bilberries five hours prior to performing visual tasks. For adults 18 and older, It is recommended to take 55 to 115 g of fresh bilberries three times daily, or you can take 480 mg of bilberry fruit aqueous extract three times daily. Bilberries are a hard find because they are difficult to cultivate, but check the herb section of your local farmer's market during the summer months. Bilberry in pill form can be found at GNC.

Bupleurum

• This Asian plant is great to improve eye vision. Its rich, green, leafy-like appearance has most of its healing power in its root, and they are suitable to add in your favorite soups and salads. According to Chinese tradition, eye problems are a direct result of liver complications. Bupleurum is known to cleanse the liver while improving eye vision as well. If eating the bupleurum root, 1.5 to 3 g should suffice. If taking the more common fluid extract, which can be found at most drug retailers, try 1.5 to 3 mL. Bupleurum is not recommended for anyone younger than 18.

Goldthread

• These thin, deep yellow herbs grow in parts of Alaska and Canada. The herb's extremely bitter taste is attributed to its growth in wet and damp areas, but it's known for its immediate treatment to a number of upper-body organs. Its function in the eye involves reducing inflammation and healing infection. Grab some from your local farmer's market and put some in your tea. You can also let them soak for 24 hours and rinse them in your eyes.

Lutein

• Lutein is considered a favorite for eye conditions because of its treatment of the overall well-being of the eye. This antioxidant is found in green vegetables, particularly in spinach and kale. Lutein can reverse CME and prevents cataracts and blindness. Add spinach or kale to your diet, or visit the drug store to find lutein in pill form. Lutein supplements come in different forms, so it is important to follow the directions on the packaging of the type you decide to use.