Homeopathic Remedies for Cataracts
Cataracts are caused by oxidative changes in the lens of the eye, which can lead to gradual
clouding and impairment of vision. Cataracts are mostly seen in older people, although
exposure to radiation, excessive sunlight, pollutants, and certain medications can increase
the risk for anyone. Remedies below have been helpful in many cases of cataracts, and are
mentioned here to introduce a few of the possibilities homeopathy can offer, not as
suggestions for self-care. A constitutional remedy chosen by an experienced prescriber is the
most appropriate way to help a person with deep-seated or chronic conditions.
For dosage information, please read the information at the end of this section. See also
“Using Homeopathy With Professional Guidance” in What Is Homeopathy?
Calcarea carbonica: This remedy may be indicated when a person developing cataracts
has the feeling of looking through a mist. A person needing this remedy tends to be a
responsible type, but feels overwhelmed when under stress and fears breakdown or disease.
Chilliness, swollen glands, weight problems, and easy tiring from exertion are other
indications for Calcarea carbonica.
Calcarea fluorica: This remedy is often indicated when tissues harden or thicken
abnormally. A person needing this remedy may also have a tendency toward hard swollen lymph
nodes, joint pains, fibrous growths, or bone-spurs. The person generally feels worse during
weather changes and improved by warmth.
Causticum: This remedy has been helpful in some cases when the person developing
cataracts also had problems moving the eyes, as if the muscles around the eyeballs were stiff
or weak—especially after getting cold in the wind or open air. The person may have a
feeling of sand in the eyes. A person who needs this remedy may tend to have muscular
stiffness in many body areas. They are generally worse from cold and improved by warmth, and
often feel best in damp or rainy weather.
Natrum muriaticum: This remedy may be indicated when cataracts begin to develop. The
muscles around the eyes can feel bruised and weak, especially when the person looks down. The
person may have a feeling of gauze across the eyes, and parts of the field of vision may be
hard to focus on. A person who needs this remedy usually craves salt, feels worse from being
in the sun, and has deep emotions yet appears to be reserved.
Phosphorus: People who need this remedy may have a feeling that dust or mist in the
eyes is obscuring vision, or may experience soreness that feels like eyestrain after very
little use. They sometimes see little bright dots of colored light when the eyes are closed.
People who need this remedy are usually sympathetic and fond of company, but can tire easily.
An active imagination (including many fears) and a strong desire for cold drinks and
refreshing things are other indications for Phosphorus.
Silicea (also called Silica): This remedy has been helpful to some individuals who
developed cataracts after extended periods of eyestrain, or after perspiration of the feet had
been suppressed. People needing this remedy tend to be chilly (although they often sweat at
night) and often have low resistance to infection. Fine hair, weak nails, easy tiredness, and
swollen lymph nodes are other signs suggesting Silicea.
Homeopathy Dosage Directions
Select the remedy that most closely matches the symptoms. In conditions where
self-treatment is appropriate, unless otherwise directed by a physician, a lower potency (6X,
6C, 12X, 12C, 30X, or 30C) should be used. In addition, instructions for use are usually
printed on the label.
Many homeopathic physicians suggest that remedies be used as follows: Take one dose and
wait for a response. If improvement is seen, continue to wait and let the remedy work. If
improvement lags significantly or has clearly stopped, another dose may be taken. The
frequency of dosage varies with the condition and the individual. Sometimes a dose may be
required several times an hour; other times a dose may be indicated several times a day; and
in some situations, one dose per day (or less) can be sufficient.
If no response is seen within a reasonable amount of time, select a different remedy.
For more information, including references, see What is Homeopathy? and Understanding Homeopathic Potencies.
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purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro),
clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may
not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with
prescription or over-the-counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor,
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before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires March 2005.
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