Natural Ayurvedic Treatment for Progressive and Degenerative Myopia – Causes, Symptoms & Herbal Remedies
Abstract
Our eyes are essential organs that allow us to appreciate the world’s beauty. However, these delicate structures can sometimes face challenges. One common issue is myopia, or nearsightedness, a condition where nearby objects appear clear, but distant ones are blurry. While myopia is widespread, there is also a more advanced form known as progressive and degenerative myopia, which can lead to further complications. In this article, we will explore the details of myopia, focusing on its causes, progression, and the available treatment options. We’ll also delve into how modern medicine addresses the condition and compare it with the healing practices of Ayurveda, the traditional Indian system of medicine. By examining both approaches, we aim to offer a comprehensive understanding of myopia and its management.
Introduction
Progressive and degenerative myopia are advanced forms of nearsightedness that lead to a continuous worsening of vision over time. While myopia is a common refractive error where distant objects appear blurry, progressive myopia involves the gradual elongation of the eye, causing an increase in the severity of the condition. In degenerative myopia, this progression is accompanied by structural changes in the eye, such as thinning of the retina and the development of staphylomas—irregular protrusions in the eye wall. These changes can lead to severe complications, including retinal detachment, cataracts, and glaucoma. Although the exact cause remains multifactorial, genetics, environmental factors, and prolonged near-vision activities are significant contributors. Understanding the progression and management of this condition is crucial to prevent defective vision impairment and maintain eye health.
Pathophysiology
Myopia typically begins in early to middle childhood and can continue progressing into early adulthood. Most children are born with hyperopia (farsightedness), but between the ages of 5 and 8, their eyes undergo a process called emmetropization, where their refractive error adjusts. After this process, the cornea stabilizes, but the axial length of the eye increases, leading to progressive myopia. In cases of pathological myopia, this axial elongation becomes more pronounced, causing the eye to develop irregular shapes, including protrusions known as staphylomas. As the eye lengthens, it stretches and thins the retina, choroid, and sclera, resulting in a range of pathological changes that can seriously affect vision.
Signs and Symptoms
- Eye strain
- Blurred vision
- Halos and glare
- Slight and sudden decrease in visual acuity
- Distorted or wavy vision
- Increased risk of glaucoma
- Changes in the shape of eye
- Headaches
Investigations
- Visual Acuity Test
- Refraction test
- Axial length measurement
- Fundus examination
- OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography)
- Corneal Topography
- Retinal Imaging
Management
- Eyeglasses and contact lenses
- Orthokeratology
- Atropine eye drops
- Refractive surgery
- Implantable lenses
- Vision therapy
- Lifestyle modification
Ayurvedic View and Management
Progressive and degenerative myopia is an advanced form of nearsightedness. There are collective causes in Ayurveda that result in disorders of the eyes which include exposing or drinking cool water immediately after exposure to heat, abnormal sleeping habits, continuous weeping, excessive anger, grief, stress, injuries, excessive sudation to the eye, exposure to dusty smoke, suppressing natural urges such as vomiting, tears, observing minute things regularly and overindulgence in sexual activities and others. The condition of Progressive and Degenerative myopia can be correlated with vataja timira. As vata causes continuous diminishing of the vision. Objects that appear as moving, dirty, irregular and halos are seen in vataja timira. These symptoms can be considered as more close to the symptoms of the Progressive and Degenerative myopia. The management include the administration of jeevanthaydi ghrita, patoladya ghrita, triphala ghrita, mahavasadi kwath, anjanas with bhaskara churna, timiranthak anjana, tuttamjana, kukkuta vistanjan, aksha beejadi gutika anjan, shanmakshik yoga anjan, kokila varti, chandraodya varti, hareetakyadi varthi, muktaadi mahanjan, nasya with jeevanthi tailam, erandadi tailam, tila tailam, anu tailam, gomaya tailam. Tarpan with ksheer sarpi are some of the treatment protocols for the management of vataja timira and so it benefits in Progressive and Degenerative Myopia.
Herbal Remedies for Progressive & Degenerative Myopia by Planet Ayurveda
Planet Ayurveda is a renowned Ayurvedic company and manufacturing unit dedicated to providing high-quality, natural remedies for various health conditions. With a focus on traditional healing practices, their products are crafted using pure, potent herbs that promote overall well-being. Patients rave about the positive impact these products have had on their health, praising their effectiveness, natural ingredients, and absence of side effects. Planet Ayurveda is pleased to present its products that are effective in checking the progression of progressive and degenerative myopia. Following is the list of products.
- Amalaki Rasayan
- Bilberry Capsules
- Saptamrit Loha
- Mahatriphala Ghrit
- Jivantyadi Ghrit
- Jasnoor Eye Drops
Herbal Remedies for Progressive & Degenerative Myopia
Product Description
1. Amalaki Rasayan
Amalaki Rasayan is a patent product of Planet Ayurveda that contains the goodness of amla (Emblica officinalis). Amla is one of the best remedies for eye disorders. It is rich in vitamins, an essential vitamin for maintaining healthy eyes and reducing oxidative stress and protecting the retina. It is traditionally used to improve vision and prevent vision deterioration. Regular intake of amla is helpful to strengthen eyesight and improve night vision.
Dosage : One capsule twice a day after meals.
2. Bilberry Capsules
Bilberry Capsules, composed of Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus), are highly effective in managing progressive and degenerative myopia. Bilberries are rich in anthocyanins, powerful antioxidants that improve blood circulation to the eyes, enhance retinal function, and protect against oxidative stress. They support the health of blood vessels in the eyes, improving night vision, reducing eye fatigue, and helping prevent further vision deterioration. Bilberry Capsules strengthen the eye muscles, improve visual acuity, and slow the progression of myopia, making them a valuable natural remedy for maintaining optimal eye health and preventing further damage in degenerative conditions.
Dosage : One capsule twice a day after meals.
3. Saptamrit Loha
Saptamrit Loha is composed of Yashtimadhu (Glycyrrhiza glabra), Loha Bhasma (Iron calx), Amalaki (Emblica officinalis), Bibhitaki (Terminalia bellirica), and other ingredients, is highly beneficial for managing progressive and degenerative myopia. Yashtimadhu helps soothe inflammation and supports overall eye health. Loha Bhasma, rich in iron, improves circulation and nourishes eye tissues. Amalaki provides vital antioxidants, supporting retina health and preventing oxidative damage. Bibhitaki strengthens optic nerves. Together, these ingredients enhance vision, slow myopia progression, and promote overall eye rejuvenation, improving vision clarity and eye strength.
Dosage : Two tablets twice a day after meals.
4. Mahatriphala Ghrit
Mahatriphala Ghrit is a classical Ayurvedic formulation renowned for its efficacy in managing eye disorders. Enriched with potent ingredients like Triphala (Amalaki, Bibhitaki, Haritaki), Bhringraj (Eclipta alba), Vasa (Adhatoda vasica), Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus), Giloy (Tinospora cordifolia), and Pipal (Ficus religiosa), this herbal ghee offers comprehensive ocular support that is required to manage progressive and degenerative myopia. These herbs possess antioxidant and rejuvenating properties that nourish ocular tissues, strengthen the optic nerves, and enhance retinal health. As, it is correlated with ‘Timira,’ and using Mahatriphala Ghrit have shown promising results in improving visual acuity and halting disease progression. Regular use of this formulation not only supports eye health but also aids in reducing eye strain and fatigue, making it a valuable addition to holistic eye care routines. Additionally, the formulation can also be used for Akshi Tarpana therapy as well (This should be done under supervision of an ayurvedic physician).
Dosage : One tsp twice a day with warm water after meals.
5. Jivantyadi Ghrit
Jivantyadi Ghrit is a classical medicated ghee formulation containing Jivanti (Leptadenia reticulata), Kakoli (Lilium polyphyllum), Lodhra (Symplocos racemosa), Shatavari (Asparagus racemosa), Yashtimadhu (Glycyrrhiza glabra), Amalaki (Emblica officinalis), and ghee, is highly effective in managing progressive and degenerative myopia. Jivanti and Kakoli help nourish and rejuvenate the optic nerves, while Lodhra strengthens eye tissues. Shatavari and Yashtimadhu enhance overall eye health and reduce inflammation. Amalaki provides antioxidant support, improving vision clarity. Ghee, as a base, ensures proper absorption of these herbs, promoting healthy vision, preventing further deterioration, and supporting eye regeneration.
Dosage : One tsp twice a day with warm water after meals.
6. Jasnoor Eye Drops
Jasnoor Eye Drops is a product of Planet Ayurveda that contains the eye health enhancing properties of haritaki (Terminalia chebula), amla (Emblica officinalis), karpura (Camphora), punarnava (Boerhaavia diffusa), nirgundi (Vitex negundo), shobhanjan (Moringa oleifera) and various other herbs. These natural ingredients support the strengthening of eye muscles, enhance blood circulation to the eyes, and reduce oxidative stress. For progressive and degenerative myopia, they help slow down the progression of vision deterioration, reduce eye strain, and improve clarity. Regular use of Jasnoor Eye Drops promotes healthier, more resilient eyes, offering natural support for better vision.
Dosage : Instill two drops in each eye 3-4 times daily.
Conclusion
Progressive and degenerative myopia is a serious condition that worsens over time, potentially leading to vision loss. It requires immediate medical attention. In modern medicine, corrective lenses and surgery are commonly recommended. However, Ayurveda offers natural and herbal remedies that effectively manage this condition through their potent healing properties. These remedies help address the root cause, improve eye health, and slow down the progression of myopia. Ayurvedic herbs and treatments are increasingly recognized for their ability to strengthen the eyes, reduce strain on your eyes, and improve vision naturally. By integrating Ayurvedic remedies with a balanced lifestyle, progressive and degenerative myopia can be managed more effectively, offering an alternative to conventional treatments.
