Homeopathic Remedies for High Ocular Pressure

High ocular pressure, more commonly referred to as intraocular pressure (IOP), has been linked with debilitating visual conditions like glaucoma. Most of the time, doctors will prescribe medications such as drops to help relieve the pressure. But for those who like to avoid drugs at all costs, there are homeopathic options available.

Antioxidants

• Increasing your intake of antioxidants may help alleviate high ocular pressure by protecting the optic nerve from becoming inflamed or infected. It can also help improve the outgoing flow of fluid in the eye, which alleviates pressure. Antioxidants also have been shown to reduce free radicals in the body, and if they can block oxygen-derived free radical vasoconstriction (tightening of the veins in the eye area), it may also help relieve pressure. The most common antioxidants are vitamins C, E and beta-carotene.

Magnesium

• According to Dr. Edward Kondrot, a homeopathic ophthalmologist, magnesium deficiency has been associated with high blood pressure, which, in turn, causes the constriction of blood vessels. He says magnesium has been shown to improve circulation through the eyes in some cases.

Chromium

• Raising good cholesterol (HDL) and lowering lipids is the basic formula for the drug Timoptic, which is prescribed for glaucoma and IOP. Doing this same thing with a natural supplement instead of a drug should lead to similar results but without the side effects. Fortunately, chromium has been shown to do exactly that. According to Dr. Kondrot, anyone taking Timoptic should consider supplementing it with chromium.