Evidence supporting the use of: Polyphenols (npt specified)
For the health condition: Glaucoma
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2
Polyphenols, a broad class of naturally occurring compounds found in plants (such as flavonoids, phenolic acids, and stilbenes), have been investigated for their potential role in supporting eye health, including in glaucoma. Glaucoma is characterized by progressive optic neuropathy often associated with increased intraocular pressure (IOP) and oxidative stress. The rationale for polyphenol use is primarily based on their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which could theoretically protect retinal ganglion cells and the optic nerve from damage.
Preclinical studies (in vitro and in animal models) have shown that specific polyphenols—such as resveratrol, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) from green tea, and quercetin—can reduce oxidative stress and apoptosis in retinal cells, and may help lower IOP. For instance, resveratrol has been shown to inhibit retinal ganglion cell death in animal models of glaucoma. However, robust human clinical trials are sparse. Some small pilot studies suggest potential benefits of polyphenol-rich diets or supplements in reducing ocular oxidative markers or IOP, but results are neither consistent nor conclusive.
Therefore, while there is a scientific rationale and some preliminary evidence, current support for polyphenols in glaucoma management is modest and not definitive. Polyphenols are not established as a primary or adjunct therapy for glaucoma in clinical practice, and further well-designed human studies are needed.
Other health conditions supported by Polyphenols (npt specified)
Aging (prevention)Alzheimer's Disease
Antibiotics (alternatives to)
Anxiety
Arteriosclerosis
Arthritis
Blood Clots (prevention of)
Cancer (natural therapy for)
Cancer (prevention)
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects)
Cardiovascular Disease
Cholesterol (high)
Circulation (poor)
Cirrhosis of the Liver
Colds (prevention)
Congestive Heart Failure
Constipation (adults)
Depression
Dermatitis
Diabetes
Diabetic Retinopathy
Digestion (poor)
Fatty Liver Disease
Free Radical Damage
Gastritis
Gingivitis
Glaucoma
Gout
Heart (weakness)
Hypertension
Inflammation
Inflammatory Bowel Disorders
Insomnia
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Kidney Stones
Liver Detoxification