Macular Degeneration
Natural Remedies

Macular Degeneration - Editor's Choice

| Modified on Jun 27, 2025
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Macular degeneration, also known as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), is a common eye condition that affects the central part of the retina, called the macula, and can lead to vision loss. As the population ages, the prevalence of AMD is expected to increase, making it essential to identify effective prevention and treatment strategies.

This article will explore the top-researched natural remedies and supplements for macular degeneration backed by scientific studies.

Antioxidants and AREDS Formulation

AREDS Formulation

The Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS) was a major clinical trial conducted by the National Eye Institute that found a specific combination of antioxidants and minerals to be effective in reducing the risk of advanced AMD by about 25%.1 The original AREDS formulation contains:

  1. Vitamin C: 500 mg
  2. Vitamin E: 400 IU
  3. Beta-carotene: 15 mg
  4. Zinc (as zinc oxide): 80 mg
  5. Copper (as cupric oxide): 2 mg

However, the AREDS2 study replaced beta-carotene with lutein and zeaxanthin due to concerns about the potential risks of beta-carotene for smokers. 2

Lutein and Zeaxanthin

Lutein and zeaxanthin are carotenoid pigments found in high concentrations in the macula, where they act as antioxidants and protect the retina from harmful blue light. 3 Several studies suggest that increased dietary intake of lutein and zeaxanthin, or supplementation, may help reduce the risk of AMD. 4, 5

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

DHA and EPA

Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) are omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil. They play crucial roles in maintaining healthy cell membranes and reducing inflammation in the body. Several studies have shown that regular consumption of omega-3 fatty acids, particularly DHA and EPA, may help prevent or slow down the progression of AMD. 67

Other Supplements and Natural Remedies

Ginkgo Biloba

Ginkgo biloba, an ancient tree species, has been used for centuries for its potential health benefits. It is believed to improve blood flow and provide antioxidant protection. Some studies suggest that ginkgo biloba extract may improve visual function and slow the progression of AMD. 8, 9

Bilberry Extract

Bilberry, a close relative of blueberry, contains anthocyanins with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Some studies suggest that bilberry extract may improve night vision, retinal function, and protect against oxidative stress, potentially benefiting those with AMD. 10, 11

Saffron

Saffron, a spice derived from the Crocus sativus flower, contains powerful antioxidants such as crocin and crocetin. Some research indicates that saffron supplementation may improve visual function in individuals with early-stage AMD. 12, 13

Lifestyle and Dietary Considerations

In addition to supplements and natural remedies, certain lifestyle and dietary factors may help prevent or slow the progression of AMD. These include:

Regular Exercise

Engaging in regular physical activity can reduce inflammation and promote overall eye health. Some studies suggest that regular exercise may help reduce the risk of developing AMD. 14

A Nutrient-Rich Diet

A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein sources provides essential nutrients for eye health. Consuming foods high in antioxidants, such as dark leafy greens, berries, and nuts, may help reduce the risk of AMD. 15

Smoking Cessation

Smoking is a significant risk factor for AMD. Quitting smoking can reduce AMD risk and slow its progression. 16

Conclusion

Combining natural remedies, supplements, and lifestyle changes may help reduce the risk of macular degeneration or slow its progression. However, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement or natural remedy regimen. Further research is needed to confirm the effectiveness of these remedies and determine the optimal dosages for individuals with AMD.

Earth Clinic Reader Remedies for Macular Degeneration

Aloe Vera

In one popular post below, Kiki17's father, who has wet macular degeneration, started using fresh aloe vera gel in his eyes as a potential remedy. He experienced noticeable improvements in his eyesight and did not require further injections for the condition. Kiki17 emphasizes the importance of using plump, soft, fleshy aloe vera leaves instead of the flatter, firmer variety, as the latter may cause discomfort.

There is limited research available on the direct use of fresh aloe vera gel for age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Most of the research on aloe vera focuses on its potential benefits for skin, digestion, and wound healing, rather than its effects on eye health or AMD specifically.

However, aloe vera does contain some compounds that have been shown to benefit overall health, such as vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. These compounds may provide general support for the body, but their direct impact on AMD remains uncertain.

Continue reading below to learn which natural remedies have helped Earth Clinic readers with macular degeneration.

Citations:

  1. Age-Related Eye Disease Study Research Group. (2001). A randomized, placebo-controlled, clinical trial of high-dose supplementation with vitamins C and E, beta carotene, and zinc for age-related macular degeneration and vision loss: AREDS report no. 8. Archives of Ophthalmology, 119(10), 1417-1436.
  2. Age-Related Eye Disease Study 2 Research Group. (2013). Lutein + zeaxanthin and omega-3 fatty acids for age-related macular degeneration: the Age-Related Eye Disease Study 2 (AREDS2) randomized clinical trial. JAMA, 309(19), 2005-2015.
  3. Bone, R. A., Landrum, J. T., & Tarsis, S. L. (1992). Preliminary identification of the human macular pigment. Vision Research, 32(5), 791-796.
  4. Seddon, J. M., Ajani, U. A., Sperduto, R. D., Hiller, R., Blair, N., Burton, T. C., ... & Yannuzzi, L. A. (1994). Dietary carotenoids, vitamins A, C, and E, and advanced age-related macular degeneration: Eye Disease Case-Control Study Group. JAMA, 272(18), 1413-1420.
  5. SanGiovanni, J. P., Chew, E. Y., Clemons, T. E., Ferris, F. L., Gensler, G., Lindblad, A. S., ... & Sperduto, R. D. (2007). The relationship of dietary carotenoid and vitamin A, E, and C intake with age-related macular degeneration in a case-control study: AREDS Report No. 22. Archives of Ophthalmology, 125(9), 1225-1232.
  6. SanGiovanni, J. P., Chew, E. Y., Agrón, E., Clemons, T. E., Ferris, F. L., Gensler, G., ... & Sperduto, R. D. (2008). The relationship of dietary omega-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid intake with incident age-related macular degeneration: AREDS Report No. 23. Archives of Ophthalmology, 126(9), 1274-1279.
  7. Chong, E. W. T., Kreis, A. J., Wong, T. Y., Simpson, J. A., & Guymer, R. H. (2008). Dietary omega-3 fatty acid and fish intake in the primary prevention of age-related macular degeneration: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Archives of Ophthalmology, 126(6), 826-833.
  8. Lebuisson, D. A., Leroy, L., & Rigal, G. (2002). Treatment of senile macular degeneration with Ginkgo biloba extract: A preliminary double-blind drug vs. placebo study. La Presse Médicale, 31(39), 1841-1842.
  9. Fies, P., & Dienel, A. (2000). Ginkgo extract in impaired vision—treatment with special extract EGb 761 of impaired vision due to dry senile macular degeneration. Wiener Medizinische Wochenschrift, 150(21-22), 414-416.
  10. Muth, E. R., Laurent, J. M., & Jasper, P.(2000). The effect of bilberry nutritional supplementation on night visual acuity and contrast sensitivity. Alternative Medicine Review, 5(2), 164-173.
  11. Ghosh, D., & Konishi, T. (2007). Anthocyanins and anthocyanin-rich extracts: Role in diabetes and eye function. Asia Pacific Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 16(2), 200-208.
  12. Falsini, B., Piccardi, M., Minnella, A., Savastano, C., Capoluongo, E., Fadda, A., ... & Plateroti, R. (2010). Influence of saffron supplementation on retinal flicker sensitivity in early age-related macular degeneration. Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science, 51(12), 6118-6124.
  13. Piccardi, M., Marangoni, D., Minnella, A. M., Savastano, M. C., Valentini, P., Ambrosio, L., ... & Falsini, B. (2018). A longitudinal follow-up study of saffron supplementation in early age-related macular degeneration: sustained benefits to central retinal function. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2018, Article ID 8461519.
  14. Williams, P. T. (2007). Inadequate exercise as a risk factor for age-related macular degeneration. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 39(1), 64-70.
  15. Seddon, J. M., Cote, J., & Rosner, B. (2003). Progression of age-related macular degeneration: association with dietary fat, transunsaturated fat, nuts, and fish intake. Archives of Ophthalmology, 121(12), 1728-1737.
  16. Thornton, J., Edwards, R., Mitchell, P., Harrison, R. A., Buchan, I., & Kelly, S. P. (2005). Smoking and age-related macular degeneration: a review of association. Eye, 19(9), 935-944.

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The comments below reflect the personal experiences and opinions of readers and do not represent medical advice or the views of this website. The information shared has not been evaluated by the FDA and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease or health condition. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for medical concerns.

Lutein

Posted by Gloria (michigan) on 04/02/2022
★★★★★

Editor's Choice

My Mom had non treatable macular, had lost sight in the left eye and it had moved into the right eye along with glaucoma. Our Ophthalmologist said to take 40mg of straight Lutein which I purchased thru Puritans Pride. She took it for the summer, it reversed the macular in the right eye, no more glaucoma and she got sight back in her left eye. She passed away a few years later, I started taking the 40mg Lutein once a day and my eyes got so better that I went from the glasses I had in 2020 back to 1995. I just got my eyes reexamined, and she was shocked at how my sight had improved.


Aloe Vera

Posted by Kiki17 (Germany) on 05/29/2021
★★★★★

Editor's Choice

My father has had (wet) macular degeneration for many years now. He has received about 60 injections in the eyes for this. As far as I know the injections are just to slow the progression of the disease, not cure it. As his eyesight was so bad and the injections were not fun to receive, he decided to try putting aloe vera in his eyes (years ago he had read Native Americans used aloe vera for eye problems).

Very quickly he noticed a difference, and when he went for the next check up the doctor said he didn't need an injection this time. The following check up he didn't need one either. That was about 2 years ago now, and he hasn't been back since because his eyesight has actually improved!! For example, he says he can now read the number on the bus when it comes toward him (he doesn't need to ask someone) and he can see more in general. Recently I saw him read large numbers on a page with his glasses on - an impossibility a few years ago!

It is important to get the plump, slightly soft, fleshy aloe vera, rather than the larger, more firm variety which has flatter leaves. My father couldn't use the flatter leaf variety, it stung in his eyes whereas the softer one feels good in the eye. He just squeezes some of the juice into his eyes every day. I do not recommend the bottled aloe vera because it is not fresh.

I really do hope this helps someone because this has been incredible for my father and for our family. Slightly improved eyesight when that did not seem possible, and no more injections.



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