Several studies in recent years have shown how curcumin, an active compound in turmeric, could benefit eye health in several ways. Turmeric spice, besides its popular culinary uses, has been utilised in many traditional medicines such as Tibetan, Unani, Chinese and Ayurveda for treating all kinds of illnesses and diseases since ancient times. Turmeric contains several compounds called curcuminoids- among which, curcumin is the most potent, active and well-known of all. It is a polyphenol antioxidant with rich anti-inflammatory, anti-angiogenic, anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-carcinogenic properties. Hence, Curcumin is the main reason why turmeric has gained such popularity in the health and wellness world from ancient times and even till today.
Curcumin extract has been proven to be effective for treating all kinds of health complications such as digestive issue, heart disease, liver and kidney problems, brain functioning, skin and hair health and many more. Recent studies have shown how curcumin from turmeric has positive effects on eye health especially when it comes to treating eye conditions such as red eyes, conjunctivitis, and even glaucoma. Even though more scientific research is still needed to support the many claims of curcumin when it comes to improving eye health, the results so far are nonetheless undeniable and impressively positive. Therefore, this article will further discuss how curcumin from turmeric is advantageous for the eyes.
Here are some of the many ways curcumin benefits the eyes:
1. Curcumin And The Cornea
The cornea is the transparent front part of the eye that covers the iris, pupil, and anterior chamber. Inflammation of the cornea can cause blood vessels to grow and cover the surface of the eye. Curcumin with its potent anti-inflammatory properties is known to help prevent such condition from developing. It inhibits various growth factors which can lead to blood vessel growth in the cornea (Corneal Neovascularization) and also help speed up the wound healing process on the cornea.
2. Curcumin And Dry Eye Disease
Inflammation on the ocular surface is what causes dry eye disease. Dry eye disease is a condition when there is insufficient production of tears and increased evaporation which makes the eyes dry and prone to eye complications. Curcumin from turmeric is known to address underlying dry eyes by inhibiting inflammatory cytokines on the surface of the eye, factors contributing to dry eye disease. In this way, curcumin proves to be an ideal natural solution for dry eye disease.
3. Curcumin And Cataract
Eye disease such as cataract that mainly occurs as one age. It is a condition where there is a clouding or opacification of the lens inside the eye. Oxidative stress to the eye lens is believed to be the main factor contributing to the development of different kinds of cataracts. Curcumin’s potent antioxidant effects have been known to help prevent cataract development. Curcumin help increase the levels of Vitamin C, which is especially essential in preventing cataract. Curcumin from turmeric is also known to be effective in suppressing the progress of diabetic cataracts by modifying the protein aggregation which may lead to clouding of the eye lens as well as reducing oxidative stress from excess calcium and nitric oxide.
4. Curcumin And Uveitis
Uveitis is an eye condition that occurs when there is an inflammation inside the eye of the uvea. The uvea is the middle layer of the eye that includes the iris, the choroid, and the ciliary body. Recent studies conducted on 18 individuals with uveitis who were given curcumin alone, shows tremendous improvement in their condition and even shows a comparable result to conventional drugs such as corticosteroid therapy, a type of medication that help treat uveitis. Curcumin’s potent anti-inflammatory agent is mainly credited for this incredible benefit.
5. Curcumin And Glaucoma
Glaucoma is a chronic eye condition that can lead to irreversible blindness affecting millions of people around the world. It mainly involves damage to the optic nerve in the eye due to the high pressure of fluid. To help prevent the progression of optic nerve damage, neuro-protection is needed. This is where curcumin plays a crucial role in treating glaucoma. Curcumin from turmeric has been shown to have neuroprotective properties by suppressing oxidative damage as well as helping prevent dysfunction of mitochondria.
CURCUMIN-BASED SUPPLEMENT FOR THE EYE
- Visiongold Juice
Naturally enriched, Visiongold Juice by Preserva Wellness is the perfect healthy solution to your eye care needs. It contains an effective blend of Curcumin (95%), Carrot, Triphala and Aloe vera that works in complete harmony to bring forth a safe and effective nutritious juice for improving eye health. From treating Dry Eyes, Eye Strain, Conjunctivitis, Protecting the eyes from Harmful Lights to preventing degenerative eye complications such as Glaucoma, Cataract and Diabetic Retinopathy, Visiongold Juice is a proven natural juice that works wonder for the eyes!
Bottomline
Curcumin or turmeric, in general, is indeed incredible when it comes to enhancing health. They are also a much safer alternative to conventional drugs as they do not have any side effects. Additionally, since curcumin content in turmeric is very low, always make sure you take curcumin supplements containing at least 95% pure curcumin extract. This way you get all the benefits curcumin has to offer
Disclaimer: This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health providers regarding any health complaints or before making any dietary changes.