Floaters: Natural remedies that help

Floaters is a common problem of the eyes which results in small spots of light floating in the line of vision of a person, either regularly or occasionally. While floaters are not a painful or troublesome condition of the eye, they can bother normal vision. They can also be taken as signs of a serious eye ailment and thus, need immediate attention. There are various natural cures for the problem, which have proven to be quite effective.
 

Floaters are experienced as tiny specks, cobwebs, threads or dots, which appear before the line of vision, usually in a corner. They appear to move away from you when you try and focus on them. Often floaters appear to be moving away from the eye.
 

Floaters are shadows cast over the retina by a clear gel like fluid. This fluid called the vitreous humor sometimes just gets coagulated to form clumps. These, when come in front of the retina, form shadows. The retina then sends signals to the brain as a result of which the dot like images are formed.

Most commonly experienced by the elderly and nearsighted people, floaters may themselves not e such a problem, but might be indicators of a serious eye ailment like – retinal tears, high blood pressure, uveitus, or even haemorrhaging due to diabetes.
 

·         Normal aging of the eye

·         Near sightedness

·         Candidiasis or yeast infection

·         Food allergies

·         Diabetes

·         Eye surgeries gone bad

·         Eye injuries
 

Among the natural eye treatments available for floaters are – hypnosis, acupuncture, homeopathy and herbal remedies. These treatments do not have any side effects and have been known to cure the ailment completely.
 

Chinese herbalists believe that congestion in any part of the body, especially the liver, kidney or colon results in floaters. The Greek on the other hand relate this problem with eye infections. Many herbalists believe floaters happen due to improper blood circulation and lack of oxygen supply to the eye, while others relate it to eye health.
 

·         Dandelion root – this herb specifically is an excellent de-congesant and helps to relieve any congestion in the liver, kidney and colon. This in turn keeps the vitreous cavity of the eye clean. The herb maintains good health of blood vessels and is an excellent source of Vitamin A, C and E.

·         Bilberry – it improves blood circulation to the eyes and strengthens the eye tissue. Its blue pigments are rich in antioxidants thus, preventing cataracts, glaucoma and macular degeneration related to age. Thus, this herb is effective for floaters as it also improves the oxygen supply to the eyes.

·         Eyebright – like its name the herb is known to cure eye ailments and maintain eye health. It cures eye infections and is a rich source of Vit A and C. its anti-inflammatory properties prevent eye inflammations and also maintain healthy sensitivity to light.

·         Ginkgo Bibola – research has proved that the antioxidants – flavonoids and terpenoids present in this herb have the property to effectively curb the ill-effects of free radicals in our body. Flavonoids protect the eye nerves and vessels, especially those in the retina from damage and thus also help cure floaters. Terpenoids increase the blood flow and oxygen supply to the eyes.

·         Aspalathus linearis (Rooibos) – this herb is good for liver functioning and the digestive system and is an effective all round tonic which is also good for the eyes.

·         Some other effective herbs are - chrysanthemum flowers, celosia seeds, milk thistle, gardenia and Sutherlandia frutescens.
 

·         It is best to procure your herbal medicines from reputable companies and sources, so that they are safe and provide the best therapeutic value and effect.

·         Since it is the matter that concerns the eyes, extra care needs to be taken while using any medication. Always consult a practitioner before trying out anything.

·         If condition persists or worsens, discontinue medication immediately. There might be a need for surgery.