Evidence supporting the use of: Flavonoids
For the health condition: Eye Problems
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3
Flavonoids are a diverse group of plant compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Their use to support or treat eye problems, particularly conditions like diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration (AMD), and cataracts, is supported by a moderate body of scientific evidence, though most data come from observational studies, laboratory experiments, and some small clinical trials rather than large-scale, definitive human studies. Flavonoids such as anthocyanins (found in berries), quercetin, and flavanols have been shown to help protect retinal cells from oxidative stress and inflammation, which are believed to contribute to common degenerative eye diseases. Some studies suggest that flavonoids may improve microcirculation in the retina and reduce capillary fragility, especially in diabetic patients. For example, bilberry extract (rich in anthocyanins) has a long history of use and some clinical research supporting its benefit in improving night vision and reducing retinal inflammation, though results are mixed and more rigorous studies are needed. Flavonoids may also inhibit the formation of advanced glycation end products, which are implicated in diabetic eye disease. However, the overall quality of evidence is moderate, and while promising, flavonoids are not considered a primary or standalone therapy for eye disease. They are generally used as adjuncts to conventional treatment or as part of a preventive dietary approach. Further research, particularly large, randomized controlled trials, is needed to establish definitive clinical benefits.
Other ingredients used for Eye Problems
Alpha-caroteneanthocyanidins
anthocyanins
anthocyanosides
avens
bai ji
Bassia scoparia
berry
beta-carotene
beta-zeacarotene
bilberry
bioflavonoids
blueberry
boxthorne
carotene (unspecified)
carrot
Carthamus
chamomile
chickweed
chrysanthemum
citrus bioflavonoids
cryptoxanthin
cucumber
Epidermal Growth Factor
Eyebright
fennel
fibroblast growth factor
flavoglycosides
flavonoids
flavonols
ginkgo flavone glycoside
goldenseal
green tea
Japanese sophora
Ligustrazin
little ironweed
lodhtree
lutein
mango
marigold
mixed carotenoids
N-Acetyl Carnosine
Nardostachys
nut grass
Oligomeric proanthocyanidins
omega-3 fatty acids
oriental arborvitae
Pulsatilla
Pycnogenol
rutin
selenium
Self-Heal
Speedwell
Sumac
Trichosanthes
turmeric
Viola
vitamin A
vitamin C
vitamin E
Yerba buena
Zeaxanthin
Zinc
Other health conditions supported by flavonoids
Age SpotsAging (prevention)
Alzheimer's Disease
Angina
Antibiotics (alternatives to)
Arteriosclerosis
Arthritis
Asthma
Blood Clots (prevention of)
Bronchitis
Bruises (healing)
Bruises (prevention)
Cancer (natural therapy for)
Cancer (prevention)
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects)
Capillary Weakness
Cardiovascular Disease
Cholesterol (high)
Circulation (poor)
Circulation (to the brain)
Cold Sores
Colds (antiviral)
Colds (prevention)
Constipation (adults)
Depression
Dermatitis
Diabetes
Diabetic Retinopathy
Diarrhea
Digestion (poor)
Edema
Eye Problems
Eyes (red or itching)
Eyesight (poor)
