Herbal Remedies to Treat Retinitis Pigmentosa

Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP)

Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is a genetic disorder that involves the breakdown and loss of the light-sensitive rods and cones in the retina (the back part of our eyes) which then results in loss of vision.

Retinitis pigmentosa is inherited from parents to their children. A mutation in one gene among more than 50 genes is involved. This mechanism involves the progressive loss of rod photoreceptor cells in the retina.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP)?

The first signs of retinitis pigmentosa are usually seen in early childhood when both eyes are affected. The onset of symptoms is usually gradual but becomes worse as peripheral vision gets decreased and the patient may experience “tunnel vision:” and may lose their vision.

• Decreased night vision
• Tunnel vision
• Photophobia
• Photopsia
• Blurred vision
• Loss of central vision
• Trouble seeing colors
• Eventual blindness
• Development of bone spicules in the fundus
• Difficulty in the adaptation of dark to light environments or vice versa

Causes

Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) may be:

1. Non-Syndromic, which occurs alone, without any other abnormalities,
2. Syndromic, which occurs with other developmental abnormalities and neurosensory disorders
3. Secondary to Other Systemic Diseases.

There are various causes of the development of Retinitis pigmentosa (RP)

• Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) can be caused due to Alport’s syndrome, which is a genetic condition involving eye abnormalities, hearing loss, and kidney disease.
• Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) can be associated with deafness which may be congenital or progressive and known as Usher syndrome.
• Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) may be caused due to peripheral neuropathy, retardation, spiked RBCs (acanthotic), steatorrhea, ataxia, and low absorption of VLDL that is seen in abetalipoproteinemia.
• Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) associated with dysphagia, ophthalmoplegia, ataxia, and cardiac conduction deficits that are seen in the Kearns-Sayre syndrome which is a mitochondrial DNA disorder.
• Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is an association with many other rare genetic diseases such as muscular dystrophy and chronic granulomatous disease.
• RP is associated with Bardet-Biedl syndrome, which includes hypogonadism.
• Other causes of Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) are neurosyphilis, toxoplasmosis and Refsum’s disease.
• Genetics: One of the most common causes of Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is inherited retinal degeneration.

How to Diagnose Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP)?

Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is diagnosed by the complete examination of the retina. An accurate diagnosis of retinitis pigmentosa depends on the evaluation of data of the progressive loss of photoreceptor cell function that is verified by a combination of the visual field and visual acuity tests including fundus imaging and optical coherence tomography, and electroretinography (ERG).

An ophthalmoscope is a tool that is also used by doctors to find out the abnormal, dark pigment deposits in the retina that cause retinitis pigmentosa.

What are the Herbal Remedies Used to Treat Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP)?

Planet Ayurveda offers the best herbal formulations such as retinitis pigmentosa care pack which is very effective in the treatment of retinitis pigmentosa. These formulations are 100% pure, safe, natural, and free from any preservatives, chemicals, additives and have no side effects.

This pack contains:

1. Angel Eye Vitale Cream

Angel eye Vitale contains various ingredients such as almond oil, tea pure, titanium dioxide, sunflower oil, grape seed oil, vitamin E, hysteric acid, shea butter, etc. Angel eye Vitale helps in repairing the damaged cells and provides nourishment to the eyes. It provides moisture to the dry parts of the eyes and keeps them hydrated. According to Ayurveda, retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is caused due to the vitiation of the three doshas of the body. This formulation plays an important role in pacifying the doshas and enhances the role of Bhrajaka Pitta which helps to maintains the proper functioning of eyes.

Usage: Gently massage this eye cream on delicate area under the eyes after deep cleansing. Use twice daily.

2. Brahmi Capsules

Brahmi capsules contain pure and standardized extract of Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) which shows its effective results in eye disorders. It is a neurological tonic and improves the neurotransmission among brain cells and also helps to inhibit the neuron degeneration. These capsules pacify the impaired Vata and Kapha Dosha, improve the functions of eyes and keep them hydrated. It improves brain functions, reduces stress and anxiety and also induces sleep.

Dosage: One capsule two times daily with water after a meal.

3. Ashwagandha Capsules

Ashwagandha capsules are prepared from the pure root extract of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) which is very useful for the treatment of retinitis pigmentosa, chronic fatigue, stress, anxiety, and nervous breakdown, etc.  It also enhances the work or functions of the eyes. Being a nerve tonic, these capsules help to strengthen the nerves as well as muscles and provide relief from muscle spasm. These capsules work as a Rasayana which prevents early signs of aging and strengthen the body. Ashwagandha also is known as a powerful immune booster, so it prevents us from various infections.

Dosage: 1 capsule two times daily with water after a meal.

4. Swaran Bhasma

Swaran bhasma is an Ayurvedic formulation which is made from pure minerals or metals. The healing therapy with the help of metals is one of the ancient therapies, which is used in the treatment of various health problems. It is also helpful in eye-related disorders such as retinitis pigmentosa, conjunctivitis, cataract, etc. It reduces inflammation in the brain and improves brain function. Swarna bhasma improves the overall natural functions of the body.

Dosage: As advised by the physician.

5. Amalaki Rasayana

Amalaki Rasayan capsules are the 100% pure standardized herbal extract of Amalaki (Emblica Officinalis). Amalaki Rasayana is known to treat the nearsightedness and improves eyesight. These capsules also help to treat the inflammation of the eyes. In Ayurveda texts, Acharaya Charak has stated that Amalaki is one of the most potent and nourishing herbs that have rejuvenating property. It has the quality to pacify all the three doshas of body and is good for all seasons, all conditions and all types of body. It has several medicinal properties like improvement of mental function, respiratory system, digestion process, emotional balance, physical strength, etc.

Dosage: 1 capsule two times a day after a meal.

Daily Exercise and Yoga

Yoga and exercises for Retinitis pigmentosa (RP). There are various yoga and exercises that are very effective for the eyes.

Yoga

• Trataka: Trataka means to stare at an object continuously for a fixed period of time. Doing this yoga improves your vision and concentration.
• Bhastrika Pranayam: Bhastrika Pranayam increases blood circulation to the head and also improves vision.
• Anuloma Viloma Pranayama: This is a yogic breathing exercise that is also known as the alternate nostril breathing exercise. It is very helpful in respiratory-related diseases such as asthma and also helps to calm the body and mind.
• Shavasana: Corpse Pose is used for relaxation at the end of any workout session.

Exercises

The best exercises to improve eyesight are below:

• Palming
• Blinking
• Zooming
• Shifting
• Figure of eight

Home Remedies for Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP)

There are some home remedies available that should be used regularly such as:

1. Amla Juice

Take the juice of amla daily. Amla is rich in vitamin C which helps to improve eyesight.

2. Honey

Put 1 drop of pure honey in the eyes in the morning. The topical use of honey can reduce inflammation and irritation in the eye. It can also destroy harmful bacteria that can cause an eye infection.

Mix quantity of almond – 100g, Ashwagandha powder – 100g, black pepper – 10g, mulethi powder – 100g. Take 1 to 2 teaspoons twice daily with milk after food.

Dietary Guidelines

1. Vitamin A

Add vitamin A rich food in a regular diet. Vitamin A contains beta-carotene, which helps to maintain the proper functioning of the retina, cornea, and other eye tissues. They help to improve night vision.

Foods to Eat: Fish, milk, beef liver, eggs, pumpkin, spinach, sweet potatoes, and carrots.

2.Vitamin C

Vitamin C has an antioxidant property. This antioxidant may reduce the risk of developing cataracts and slow the progression of Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD).

Foods to Eat: Berries, red and green peppers, oranges, papaya, cauliflower, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and cantaloupe.

3. Vitamin E

Vitamin E also has an antioxidant property. This powerful antioxidant protects the cells of eyes from any damage caused by free radicals.

Foods to Eat: Almonds, sweet potatoes, pecans, wheat germ oil, sunflower seeds, fortified cereals, peanut butter, and vegetable oils.

4. Lutein and Zeaxanthin

These are important antioxidants that reduce the risk of chronic eye disorders, including age-related macular degeneration (AMD). They protect eyes against the damaging effects of cigarette smoke, sunlight, and air pollution.

Foods to Eat:  These antioxidants are found in green leafy vegetables like spinach, collards, and kale. Also found in broccoli, pumpkin, eggs, and bright-colored fruits such as kiwi and grapes.

5. Essential Fatty Acids

Fats are essential nutrients in our daily diet.

Foods to Eat:  Salmon, tuna, anchovies, trout, green vegetables, mackerel, vegetable oils, and walnuts.

6. Zinc

Zinc is an essential trace mineral that helps to bring vitamin A to the retina from the liver and produce melanin (a protective pigment in the eyes).

Foods to Eat:  Oysters, eggs, crab legs, poultry, baked beans, red meat, and whole grains.