Cataract is an age related opacification of the natural lens which is present inside the eye. This lens helps to focus incoming light onto the retina, so that clear vision can be obtained. Cataract is formed due to loss of proteins in the lens caused by age related processes. Cataract can also be caused as a result of eye inflammation, excessive exposure to ultraviolet sun rays, eye surgery, diabetes, excessive smoking, the use of certain drugs, and may also be a congenital condition. Symptoms of cataract include blurred vision, increased shortsightedness, double vision, and difficulty in withstanding light glare.
The formation of cataract inside the eye can be seen right from the time it starts maturing, especially when an aged patient starts complaining of diminishing vision. A normal lens is completely clear and is not visible to the naked eye; however, a mature cataract is visible as an opaque circle. A mature cataract is usually treated in the modern system of medicine by surgical removal and replacement with a synthetic lens. However, Ayurvedic herbal treatment can be utilised in the prevention of cataract formation, and also for delaying a full maturation of the cataract. For this purpose, Ayurvedic herbal medicines are used which provide nourishment to the inner parts of the eye, including the lens. This keeps the inner environment of the eye healthy and prevents the effects of ageing. In addition, other herbal medicines which remove toxins and accumulated debris from the eye are used, in order to delay age related changes within the eye.
Herbal medicines are also used to keep the body healthy and delay the generalised process of ageing within the body. Along with healthy lifestyle and a nourishing diet, such medicines contribute in delaying ageing in general for the entire body. Such herbal medicines are equally useful in preventing not only cataract but also other age related medical conditions and complications of the eye. Ayurvedic medicated herbal drops can also be used to keep the eyes healthy. It should however, be kept in mind that surgery and lens implantation is the best treatment option for a mature cataract.
The writer, Dr. A. A. Mundewadi, is available as an online Ayurvedic Consultant at www.ayurvedaphysician.com
