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Ask the Herbalist_questions on Eye Problems
any.
If you know of any other herb that would help my problem, please let me know.
Thank you in advance.
ANSWER: Oregon Grape Root, Latin Name: Mahonia aquafolium is a great alterative herb, helping the body to
eliminate wastes and good for liver insufficiency, it is a strongly bitter herb with a active constituent called berberine.
Berberine acts as broad spectrum antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral agents. It is an herb suggested for skin problems
associated with congested liver problems.
Herbs associated with Rosacea include:
Figwort, Latin Name: Sacrophularia nodosa / S. marylandica
Red Alder/Tag Alder, Latin Name: Alnus rubra/Alnus serrulata
Gotu kola, Latin Name: Centella asiatica
CONJUNCTIVITIS
QUESTION: I have had congunctivitus for over ten years. I have tried everything. I had to give up my contacts after
20 years and go to glasses. I work outside in Arizona and glasses don't work too well. Is there anything you could
suggest that could cure or help me with this chronic condition?
ANSWER: Conjunctivitis may also be called "pinkeye," because it is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, which is the
clear membrane that covers the eyeball.
The eye may appear bloodshot, have crusty discharge and scratchy feeling like something is in the eye.
Conjunctivitis can be caused by viral and bacterial infection such as germs which cause the common cold and the
Herpes virus, allergies, environmental
pollutants/irritants such as smoke or chemicals such as chlorine or contact lens solution, or injuries to the eye.
Herbal teas/tinctures traditionally used have been applied to the eyes directly, or in compress or poultice form. Note:
dilute alcohol based tinctures with saline water and thoroughly strain any preparations to be used in the eye, because
particulates can irritate the eye and if absolute sterility is not assured,
further serious infection may occur.
Dr Christopher suggests a Cayenne Pepper eyewash preparation he sells, I have never tried it.
The herbs Barberry, Oregon Grape and Goldenseal contain
berberine, a substance with antimicrobial and antibacterial properties. A pharmaceutical preparation is made based
on berberine, that is routinely used in Germany for conjunctivitis.
The herb calendula has anti-inflammatory and
antiseptic characteristics and the orange carotenoids are specific to eye health.
Chamomile has also been used to soothe conjunctivitis symptoms and is anti-inflammatory.
It is suggested that those who suffer from chronic conjunctivitis have a Vitamin A deficiency, but this does not
substantiate its use to treat or prevent the condition.
Bee Propolis has also been used for this condition.
Finally I would increase water intake to upwards a gallon a day (try to get a ounce for each body pound you way).
Use vitamin C 5-10 grams or to bowel tolerance.
Bilberry and Blueberry are specific to eye health.
Finally George O. Dever, a holistic eye doctor from Seattle did a lecture at American Herbalist Guild conference 1999
and spoke on herbal and alternative approaches to eye treatment.
You may want to get the proceedings from this conference
RETINOPATHY
QUESTION: I have a dear friend, 68 with adult onset diabetes and a history of cancer who has been told that she is
developing glaucoma and retinopathy. She has asked me what herbal protocols might halt the advance of this
disease state. I immediately thought of Yarrow to assist in shrinking the capilaries near and around the eyes (along
with many other healing benefits) but I would like to know what other herbal/nutritional protocols that you can advise. I
will help her to sort through the information and get her anything necessary if I have not made the particular medicine
myself.
ANSWER: Eye problems are a major problem for the elderly and especially those with diabetes. For diabetics control
of sugar levels is critical, adult onset can usually be corrected with weight loss and exercise. These supplements have
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