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NATURAL TREATMENT FOR GLAUCOMA AND CATARACT PREVENTION
Laser surgery thrust cataract and glaucoma treatment into the twenty-first century with the use of an instrument that seems more at home in a science fiction novel than an eye doctor\'s office.
But as strides in technology are made, the more simple and natural treatments should not be overlooked. Herbalists and homeopathic specialists recommend several natural alternatives in the prevention and treatment of glaucoma and cataracts.
Herbs, used singly or in blends, may provide relief from these conditions. The Greater Celadine, for example, has historically been associated with the treatment of cataracts. In medieval times, juice from the Greater Celadine was used as eye drops for the removal of cataracts.
Today, herbalists say the juice of this slender plant, when applied to the outside of the eyelid, may gradually fade cataracts and spots on the cornea. Experts emphasize, however, the juice should not be dropped directly into the eye.
Herbalists, also note that a steam bath for the eyes, made of a blend of herbs has positive effects on cataracts and glaucoma.
Another special combination of herbs, called Samst\'s Swedish Bitters, is all but unknown in the United States. It\'s popular in Europe for its powers of curing and alleviating the symptoms of a variety of ailments, including cataracts.
When brushed across the eyelids, Swedish Bitters is said to be an effective treatment for cataracts. It should be noted, though, that the herbal blend is highly astringent and precautions, such as coating the skin with Calendula ointment, should be taken.
Glaucoma is caused, assert many herbalists, by a problem with the body\'s kidneys. The next two remedies are said to ease the symptoms of the eye condition, by alleviating the kidney problems.
The first is a tea made of an herbal blend (and containing a small amount of Swedish Bitters). When a glaucoma sufferer drinks several cups of this beverage daily, the symptoms of the condition may soon disappear.
The second glaucoma treatment aimed at healing the ailing kidneys to relieve eye pressure is the Horsetail Sitz Bath. It is so beneficial that many people report the pressure is taken off the eyes during the bath itself. When taking the bath, the water should cover the kidney area, but not the heart region.
Recent research in nutrition, moreover, indicates that Vitamin С may provide protection from cataracts. Researchers at the USA\'s Human Nutrition Research Center fed guinea pigs large doses of Vitamin C, which resulted, the studies showed, in three to five times the usual concentration of the vitamin in the eyes.
These pigs were exposed to ultraviolet light of the type we encounter on a sunny day, and which is responsible for causing cataracts in the eyes. The pigs given the high dosage showed considerable less damage than those which were not.
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GENERAL HEALTH
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