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Herbal Remedies

To an herbalist, you are more than an interesting set of symptoms that must be eradicated with the proper medicine; rather, you are a complex human being functioning on a mental, emotional, spiritual and physical level. Since cataracts are indicative of deficiencies in the kidney and liver meridians, we have found that a combination of Chinese and Western herbs is effective for the treatment of cataracts.

Lycii-Rehmannia formula. The Chinese formula Lycii-Rehmannia contains rehmannia root, cornus fruit, dioscorea root, alisma root, poria fungus, moutan, lycium berry and chrysanthemum flowers. This formula works to nurture the vital essence of the kidneys by relieving dampness and helping the yin energies (water, fluids) to support the body, mind and spirit and heal the eyes. This combination is a classic tonic for visual problems associated with a yin-deficient condition one in which there is excessive heat and/or dryness, such as dry, irritated and/or itchy eyes or photophobia (light sensitivity).

American ginseng (Panax quinquefolium) is a tonic particularly good for the adrenal glands. American ginseng is gentler than the Asian varieties; it has more of a yin function. American ginseng supports the immune system, provides energy and balances blood sugar levels.

Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus) appears to play a significant role in the prevention of cataracts. In one study, a combination of bilberry and vitamin E stopped cataract formation in 97 percent of the patients without side effects. 10 Bilberry also may strengthen the collagen that supports eye structure. An antioxidant, it protects the lens from oxidation.

Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba) has been called the elixir of youth for its powerful effects on improving memory and brain function, protecting the heart and restoring blood circulation, improving hearing and vision and maintaining good health and general vitality. It's a powerful antioxidant as well and has been shown to increase blood circulation to the brain.

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Shou Wu nourishes the power that makes birth, development and maturation graceful. It is a tonifying herb used in this context for fading vision.

Cataract Formula

Mix one to two ounces of each of these herb tinctures together and take one teaspoon twice a day.

A combination formula of these Chinese and Western herbs is available from Integral Health Apothecary and Starfire International (see Resources).

Homeopathic Remedies

Homeopathic remedies must be individualized to each patient's unique set of symptoms; therefore, it can be difficult to prescribe the proper remedy without an examination. The following are the homeopathic remedies used most often in the treatment of cataracts.

Calcarea carbonicum is especially good for those who are sensitive to dampness and cold, and who are fairskinned and overweight. Their diet might produce an excessively acidic chemical imbalance.

Causticum is often used for those who have a heaviness in their upper eyelids. They may also have warts on their upper lid and may experience burning, itching and a sandy feeling in the eyes even though no conjunctivitis is present. Sensitivity to cold air blowing on the eyes and to cold drinks is also symptomatic.

Cineraria maritima (the homeopathic version of succus cineraria maritima, see below) is used for beginning cataracts.

Pulsatilla is indicated for those who are fair-skinned, easily brought to tears and with a tendency toward depression.

When treating cataracts homeopathically, we recommend that you consult a qualified homeopath.

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Medications

There is a pharmaceutical drug that is helpful for early stage cataracts. Succus cineraria maritima, a medication listed in the Physicians Desk Reference for Ophthalmology, is a solution of the total extracts of fresh cineraria with homamilis vulgaris (witch hazel) and boric acid. Applying drops of succus cineraria to the eye increases the circulation in the intraocular tissues, also stimulating collateral circulation and the normal metabolism of the eye.

Clinical observation has shown that succus cineraria is helpful in limiting the progression of existing cataract formation. The earlier one begins treatment, the more effective it is. We recommend using this medication even past the beginning stages if a cataract operation is not possible. Succus cineraria maritima is available from your physician or as a homeopathic from your homeopath.

Physical Exercise

Reducing body mass index reduces cataract risk, and exercise helps improve body mass index. In addition to the other exercises mentioned in Chapter 1, a good yet gentle form of exercise is rebounding, bouncing on a minitrampoline. Rebounding stimulates lymphatic drainage of the entire body without stressing the joints or the cardiovascular system. See page 25 for a discussion of rebounding.

Eye Exercises

Certain eye exercises can also help to bring energy and blood to the eyes, thus helping to drain away toxins or congestion from the eyes. See the eye exercises in Chapter 1.

Avoid Microwaves

Radiation leakage from microwave ovens are a direct cause of cataracts, so avoid constant peeking into the oven door window while you cook. In addition, food

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proteins exposed to microwaves can become toxic to the lens which is made mostly of protein.

Similarly, ultraviolet light from the sun can cause cumulative damage to the lens, so always wear a hat and a good pair of sunglasses when you're out in the sun.

Emotional Health

Managing your emotional health is very important in maintaining physical health. Fear (fear of failure, fear of responsibility, fear of being alone, fear of death, etc.) is at the root of many of life's problems, and is a major factor in the development of cataracts. In order to deal with fear, you need to slowly and gradually build self-confidence by completing tasks of increasing difficulty and challenge. But, be careful not to go beyond your abilities, or discouragement and depression may ensue.

To manage fear effectively, it is important to find a source of inner strength and peace, and then learn to act from this inner stillness and strength, rather than from restlessness and fear. Learning the balance between activity and rest and learning how to be, as well as how to do, are crucial parts of managing fear.

Recommended activities for fear management include meditation, yoga, qi gong, tai chi and psychotherapy.

Case Study Esther

Esther was in the early stages of cataract formation. A retail shopkeeper for 35 years, Esther didn't get a lot of exercise; most of her working hours were spent sitting or standing behind the counter. She smoked and drank several cups of coffee a day. Esther liked sweets and her daily diet included pastry, desserts, soda and seltzer, plus red meat, chicken and turkey. She ate vegetables only three or four times a week and fruit only occasionally. At 5 feet, 1 inch tall, she weighed 135 pounds.

Our regimen for Esther included: