Reduce Eyestrain - When macular degeneration occurs, it can lead to eye fatigue and blurred vision, and using a computer may exacerbate these issues. To help minimise discomfort, try to limit your screen time by taking frequent breaks. Additionally, ensure your eyes are well-hydrated by drinking enough water and blinking often. While working on a computer, remember to follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at an object 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This practice can help reduce eye strain. In addition, adjust your environment to protect your eyes; make sure the lighting is suitable both in front and behind you. Position your computer screen about 30-40 cm away from your eyes and slightly below your line of sight. Adjust your chair for better comfort and keep the monitor dust-free for optimal clarity.

Ginkgo Biloba - This herb effectively prevents degenerative eye damage due to its rich antioxidant content and support for cellular metabolism. Studies suggest that ginkgo biloba may help combat retinal damage.

Vitamin C - This is another natural remedy option for macular degeneration. Vitamin C can potentially slow cataract formation and reduce the effects of macular degeneration. Foods rich in vitamin C include oranges and yellow peppers. A large chilli pepper can provide up to 500% of the daily recommended intake of vitamin C. Dark green vegetables, currants, and broccoli are also exceptionally high in vitamin C. One cup of these vegetables can provide sufficient vitamin C for an entire day. Additionally, blueberries, strawberries, blackberries, and raspberries are excellent choices for increasing vitamin C intake.

Omega-3 - These fatty acids can slow macular degeneration, help prevent cataracts and alleviate dry eye symptoms. The best sources of omega-3 fatty acids are fish oil, notably salmon and sardines. Additionally, omega-3 is found in tuna, mackerel, and oysters.

Green Tea - This also helps prevent eye swelling. Dip tea bags in cold or warm water for a few minutes and place them on your eyes for 15-20 minutes. The tannins in green tea can help reduce inflammation.

Vitamin A - This enhances night vision and helps prevent macular degeneration and night blindness. Carrots and sweet potatoes are high in vitamin A.

Vitamin E - Building up to 400 IU daily is a therapeutic dose.

Lutein - Consuming approximately 12 mg of lutein daily can help slow the progression of macular degeneration. Foods high in lutein include green leafy vegetables like kale, broccoli, spinach, and others. Fruits, particularly kiwi, oranges, and grapes, are good sources. Additionally, pumpkin and squash contain lutein.

Zinc - This aids in producing melanin, a pigment that protects the eyes. It helps shield the eyes from damage and slows the onset of macular degeneration. Zinc-rich foods include lobsters, crabs, oysters, and leafy green vegetables. When combined with lutein, these vegetables provide a good amount of zinc for the body. Nuts such as cashews, peanuts, almonds, and walnuts are also excellent sources of zinc. Additionally, red meat is a great source of this essential mineral.

Computer Screens - In today's digital age, many people spend several hours each day using computers or staring at smartphones. This prolonged exposure can lead to severe vision problems, including macular degeneration. For jobs that require frequent computer use, it is essential to take measures to protect your eyesight. Consider using anti-reflective glasses, placing a cactus on your desk as a natural air purifier, and ensuring you work in well-lit environments.

Maintain Optimal Weight - A healthy diet can improve vision and alleviate symptoms of macular degeneration. Obesity not only worsens these symptoms but is also a leading cause of vision loss. Additionally, a well-balanced diet helps prevent weight-related conditions, such as diabetes, which can contribute to poor vision.

Lycopene - Lycopene-rich foods like tomatoes are effective remedies for macular degeneration. Lycopene and similar carotenoids play a crucial role in preventing the onset of this condition. According to some studies, regularly consuming lycopene can reduce the risk of developing macular degeneration. Incorporating a tomato into your daily diet can help maintain healthy eyes.

Astaxanthin - This is a carotenoid found in algae and appears in the tissues of fish species like salmon, shrimp, and trout. It can support eye health, so consider adding these seafood options to your daily diet to help alleviate symptoms of macular degeneration.

Taurine - This amino acid is a powerful antioxidant that helps regenerate damaged eye tissues. It can also help protect human eyes from ultraviolet damage and maintain vision as we age. A taurine deficiency may lead to vision degeneration.

Moringa Leaf - Moringa is a natural powerhouse of antioxidants and vitamins, including Vitamin A (beta-carotene), Vitamin B1 (thiamine), Vitamin B2 (riboflavin), Vitamin B3 (niacin), Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine), Vitamin B7 (biotin), Vitamin C (ascorbic acid), Vitamin D, (cholecalciferol), Vitamin K, and Vitamin E (tocopherol). These nutrients help individuals suffering from degenerative eye disorders cope better with their condition. Antioxidants in moringa can prevent retinal damage, while zinc slows the progression of macular degeneration. Moringa also contains essential minerals such as iron, copper, calcium, potassium, manganese, and zinc, which are particularly important for those with macular degeneration, especially zinc and antioxidants. Moringa leaves are available in capsule form, allowing for convenient daily consumption without disrupting dietary habits.

Avoid Smoking - Smoking can lead to various eye problems, including cataracts, macular degeneration, and optic nerve damage. Additionally, it can contribute to diabetes and further eye injuries. Cigarettes contain toxic chemicals that can increase inflammation, harm healthy cells and tissues, and lead to vision loss and nerve damage. If you smoke, it is essential to quit as soon as possible. If you do not smoke, do not begin this harmful habit.

Always Clean Contact Lenses - Dirty contact lenses can harm the eyes and may even cause macular damage. Properly caring for contact lenses can protect your eyes from damage. Wash contact lenses with a professional eye care cleanser after each use. Wash your hands before handling contact lenses. This ensures you do not transmit bacteria from your hands to contact lenses. Also, you should wash with mild, soapy water. Otherwise, chemicals and perfumes will be transferred to contact lenses, irritating the eyes. Do not wear contact lenses while sleeping unless they are designed for long-term use.

Limit the Use of Eye Drops to Reduce Allergies - The use of eye drops in the allergy season can reduce redness and itching, but daily use can aggravate the problem. Much more than that, this can also irritate the eyes and worsen the symptoms of macular degeneration. Eye drops reduce allergic activity by tightening blood flow to the cornea and preventing oxygen exposure. So, if your eyes are not feeling swollen and itchy, they are not getting enough oxygen from the blood. This is not good because the eye muscles need oxygen to operate. Oxygen deficiency can even lead to swelling and scar formation. Be careful when using eye drops, especially when wearing contact lenses. Many eye drops cannot be used while you are wearing contact lenses.

Sleep - Getting enough sleep is considered one of the best remedies for macular degeneration. A lack of sleep can contribute to the progression of this condition. If you frequently don’t get enough rest, you may notice that your vision becomes impaired. This is one of the most serious consequences of sleep deprivation. Sleeping each night is crucial to prevent your eyes from becoming fatigued. Adults should aim for 7 to 8 hours of sleep nightly.

Exercise - Regular exercise can help prevent significant macular degeneration caused by obesity and diabetes. Additionally, it improves overall health, including eye health. Aim to exercise for at least 30 minutes each day to achieve the best results. Exercising outdoors or in areas not exposed to electronic devices and blue light is beneficial. Being in a natural environment allows your eyes to relax.

Cucumber on the Eyes - One of the most effective natural remedies for macular degeneration is applying cucumber slices to the eyes. This treatment can help relieve the condition's symptoms; many people report feeling better after using it.

Air Quality - Improving air quality is essential in natural remedies for macular degeneration. Dry eyes often result from a lack of lubrication and moisture on the eye's surface. When someone has macular degeneration, their eyes are more prone to dryness and fatigue. To combat this, consider using a humidifier to maintain optimal humidity levels in your home or office. Additionally, adjust the thermostat to minimise air circulation and reduce dust particles that can irritate the eyes. Positioning your desk near a ventilation area for better airflow is also beneficial.

Castor oil is an old-fashioned remedy filled with antioxidants and provides several helpful eye nutrients. With the right castor oil, you can dissolve and/or reverse the development of cataracts and restore your vision naturally. Some practitioners suggest that this can also help with macular degeneration.

The best and most natural castor oil is packaged in dark blue, brown or green glass bottles with a pipette (dropper) included.

Castor oil can quickly boost eye health. Before sleeping, gently apply oil over the closed eyelid and around the eye.

Alternatively, instil one drop into each eye at least once a day. Doing this at bedtime is best because your eyesight will be blurry afterwards. Also, instilling the drops and closing your eyes will give the oil more opportunity to work.

When you awaken, you may find a crusty residue around your eyes. This is dissolved calcium and other impurities that have been blocking your vision. Don’t be alarmed. Just wash your face and go about your business.