Glaucoma and Gingko Biloba
Treatment of glaucoma largely focuses on lowering the intraocular pressure. However, there is little doubt that other risk factors besides intraocular pressure (IOP) are involved so that even an ideal IOP does not stop deterioration in all patients. While lowering intraocular pressure remains the only treatment which has the highest level of evidence associated with it, numerous studies have tried to identify other adjuvant treatments for glaucoma.
Glaucoma and Gingko Biloba Why the momentum for alternative treatment in glaucoma?
Treatment of glaucoma largely focuses on lowering the intraocular pressure. However, there is little doubt that other risk factors besides intraocular pressure (IOP) are involved so that even an ideal IOP does not stop deterioration in all patients. While lowering intraocular pressure remains the only treatment which has the highest level of evidence associated with it, numerous studies have tried to identify other adjuvant treatments for glaucoma.
What is ginkgo biloba?
Ginkgo biloba has been used in Chinese traditional medicine for centuries. Extracts of Ginkgo biloba leaves have been suggested for many years to treat various conditions, including dementia, tinnitus, and circulatory problems.
What is the possible mechanism of action?
Various in vivo (in animal studies) and in vitro (in the laboratory) models have shown that Ginkgo Biloba extract (GBE) has neuroprotective effects. Different studies have shown that Gingko Biloba extracts may have the following potential benefits:
- Improved blood flow to the optic nerve
- Neuroprotective effects 3. Antioxidant effect
- Anti-inflammatory action
Due to their perceived antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective benefits, various flavonoids (and in particular GBE) have been proposed for the treatment of non-pressure dependent risk factors associated with glaucoma
Are there any risks associated with ginkgo use?
It is important to consult both your GP as well as your eye specialist before using any supplementary medications.
One of the concerns regarding Gingko Biloba has been the potential risk of increasing bleeding time and decreasing clotting. However, numerous studies in healthy people have not shown any changes in bleeding time or coagulation parameters.
References 1. Kellermann AJ, Kloft C. Is there a risk of bleeding associated with standardized Ginkgo biloba extract therapy? A systematic review and meta-analysis. Pharmacotherapy 2011; 31:490-502.
VITAMINS AND ANTIOXIDANTS
Some of the vitamins and minerals important to the eye include zinc and copper, antioxidant vitamins C, E, and A (as beta carotene), lutein and selenium, an antioxidant mineral. These vitamins may decrease the risk of macular degeneration.
Vitamin B12 and folic acid may reduce the risk of cataracts. Dark green or brightly coloured fruits and vegetables contain the most antioxidants which protect your eyes.
Lutein, found in dark green leafy vegetables such as spinach, kale, peas, broccoli and silverbeet is one of the best known eye-protecting antioxidants.