More foods are being found that hold promise for future treatment of dry eyes and other vision problems. Turmeric is a common spice that has anti- inflammatory properties similar to COX-2 (cyclooxygenase-2) inhibitors.
Eye Doctors Rx Tumeric for Dry Eyes
Prostaglandin inhibitors come in two forms, COX-1 inhibitors and COX-2 inhibitors. Interfering with cyclooxygenase-1 can cause peptic ulcers so selective COX-2 inhibitors are preferred. Vioxx (Rofecoxib) was a blockbuster drug prescribed for millions of patients with osteoarthritis and pain.It was introduced in 1999 and voluntarily withdrawn in 2004 due to concerns about increases in heart attacks and strokes associated with it’s use. Vioxx generated sales over 2.5 billion dollars indicating the potential need for this class of drugs. Blocking the COX-2 enzyme interferes with the production of prostaglandins which are one of the substances that increase inflammation in the body. Inflammation is implicated in a number of diseases such as arthritis. Dry eyes are also caused by inflammation and prostaglandin is part of the cause of dry eye syndrome. While prescription drugs that are COX-2 inhibitors have been suspected of causing an increase in heart attacks and strokes, small studies seem to indicate turmeric is a safe COX-2 inhibitor. Turmeric also inhibits a number of other molecules that cause inflammation such as leukotrienes. Studies have shown not only anti-inflammatory but also possible antiviral and anti-fungal properties of curcuminoids, the active compound in turmeric. A small study showed no toxicity from 8000 mg of curcumin daily over a 3 month period. Turmeric is derived from the ginger family. It has a long history of being used in Ayurvedic Medicine for multiple conditions such as liver,digestive and skin diseases, being used both orally and topically . Eye Doctors may be prescribing more supplements and dietary changes in the near future to help with conditions like dry eyes. Contact lens patients with dry eyes compounded by the low humidity in areas like Colorado may find a little curry every week goes a long way in improving comfort!
You should consult your eye doctor before starting any supplements since they may be contraindicated in some medical conditions. Gallstones may be aggravated by turmeric.