American Academy of Ophthalmology – The internet is a treasure trove of information, but it’s important to steer clear of the unproven and potentially dangerous remedies that are touted as quick fixes for various eye problems.
Eye Yoga
Eye yoga is a practice that involves doing a series of eye exercises to improve vision and reduce eye strain. At least one social media influencer has suggested that eye yoga can cure age-related changes in near vision, called presbyopia, or prevent the need for reading glasses.
But there is no scientific evidence to suggest that eye yoga or other alternative practices can cure vision problems or improve eyesight.
“Presbyopia is a natural age-related condition, usually starting in one’s 40s, and can’t be cured with essential oils or eye yoga,” says ophthalmologist and Academy member Christopher Starr, MD.
“Presbyopia can only be treated with corrective lenses (such as eyeglasses or contact lenses), surgery or an FDA-approved eyedrop called Vuity, which temporarily improves blurry reading vision caused by presbyopia,” says Dr. Starr.
Essential Oils
Essential oils have become popular in recent years as a natural remedy for various eye problems, such as glaucoma. But many essential oils can be dangerous if applied directly to, or around, the eyes.
Tea tree oil may be one exception. Some evidence suggests products containing low concentrations of tea tree oil may help remove Demodex mites from the eyelashes.
An overgrowth of these microscopic mites can cause itchy and swollen eyelids, a condition called blepharitis.
Ask your ophthalmologist before trying this approach, however. Never use tea tree oil at full strength.
Castor Oil
Castor oil is another popular remedy for different eye conditions, such as “dissolving” cataracts or curing eye floaters. However, there is no scientific evidence to support these claims …
