Have you grown up firmly believing that carrots are the key to a healthy vision since that was perhaps the only way your mom could convince you to snack on one? Rich in beta-carotene, a nutrient that’s precious to our eyes, carrots do indeed help protect our sight and keep our eyes healthy. However, in addition to this delicious root vegetable, most people aren’t aware of many other plants and herbs that are beneficial for our vision.
Look to Ayurveda, and you’ll also notice that this ancient practice of healing has also empowered people to use herbs to improve their health and wellbeing. So, if you’re looking for plants and herbs to enrich your diet and improve and protect your eye health, here are a few to add to your daily menu.
Green tea for tired eyes
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If you have already started consuming this flavorful herbal tea, you can likely already confirm its numerous benefits for your energy levels, immune system, and mood. The very ritual of consuming tea is a relaxing one, so it’s no wonder so many people have embraced it. However, in addition to green tea’s antioxidant content which is responsible for its healthful properties, green tea is also exceptionally potent in protecting your eyes.
Flavonoids, also a kind of antioxidants, prevent and reduce your risk of numerous diseases such as cataracts and glaucoma. Antioxidants also have a protective purpose against the sun’s harmful UV rays. Additionally, when you find your eyes to be puffy and you have dark circles, using green tea bags can reduce the swelling and the dark circles, as well.
Gingko Biloba for rejuvenating your gaze
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Many are already familiar with this humble plant, and they might even use it as a supplement for boosting memory, their immune system, and a slew of other perks. It seems that gingko also has a fair share of benefits for our eyesight, so some of the latest treatments of certain common eye conditions such as dry eye include this plant as well.
This is backed up by research initially conducted in South Korea, where they’ve uncovered an entire list of advantages of utilizing this plant as a part of the treatment. It’s can be a great addition to your other efforts of preventing glaucoma and treating retinopathy.
Bilberries for better vision
Among so many berries and their impressive antioxidant powers, this particular berry is known for its ability to improve your vision and protect your eyes. In recent years and in well-developed regions such as Australia where people spend so much time in the sun and straining their eyes, more people are relying on extracts and supplements containing antioxidants from berries precisely because of their unique benefits for our eyes.
Of course, they always have a check-up with a reputable optometrist in Sydney first and then discuss the possibility of supplementing with berry-based antioxidants to reduce eye fatigue by combining eyewear and plants. Bilberry is also potentially beneficial for reducing high blood pressure and diabetes symptoms, both conditions being linked to impaired eye health, so it’s good to have an ally from Mother Nature.
Grapeseed extract for better circulation
Do you like to snack on fresh grapes on a regular basis? It turns out that this tasty treat has more to it than meets the eye – pardon the pun. The extract of this fruit is particularly helpful in preventing cataracts, and it can slow down macular degeneration which is responsible for the loss of the central field of vision.
Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, the extract is also very beneficial for your overall wellbeing and health, further helping you protect your eyes from side-effects of various chronic diseases so common in our modern societies. Once again, it’s still wiser to consult your physician and your optometrist before the treatment.
Plant-based diversity in your menu
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In addition to all of these incredibly useful additions to your diet and your wellness routine, we can still go back to the carrot and the essential notion of consuming nutritious plants that have a unique way of protecting your vision and your health. The vitamins and minerals found in certain plant-based foods is precisely what you need to preserve your sight for decades to come.
For starters, enjoy more dark green leafy veggies such as spinach, add broccoli to the mix, and other colorful veggies such as red peppers, sweet potatoes, and citrusy fruits. These will all deliver you a decent micronutrient-punch that is perfect for preventing and delaying macular degeneration.
Of course, regular checkups with your optometrist and your physician are a must, since they will point you in the right direction if and when the time comes to tweak your routine and add a supplement. Finally, always keep in mind that Mother Nature is your best ally in fending off illnesses and health issues, and your eyes are no exception!
