Vitamin A Oil for an Eye Injury
The eye is a sensitive organ that is responsible for detecting and converting light to impulses in neurons located in the brain. Because the eyes are organs, they require nutrients and moisture for optimum functionality. Learn the benefits of vitamin A oil and other related vitamins in the care of eye injuries caused by infection and/or disease.
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Eye Injuries (Ailments)
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Most injuries to the eye are caused by bacteria and allergens. Inflammation of the eyelids, also known as conjunctivitis or "pink-eye"; scaly itching of the edges of the eyelid (blepharitis); small blisters located on the bottom eye rim (sties); and red, watery eyes from allergies are a few of the more common eye ailments that may be contagious but not necessarily serious. Eye infection becomes serious when left untreated. Inflammation of the eye is generally caused by invasion of bacteria or viruses, poor hygiene or low immunity, according to Herbs 2000. Treatment requires eye drops prescribed by a physician. More serious ailments, such as glaucoma and cataracts, require the attention of a licensed ophthalmologist, as cataracts must be surgically removed.
Natural Remedies: Vitamins
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Vitamins A, C and K are high in antioxidants, thereby aiding in eye care. According to The Eye Digest, green leafy vegetables and herbs are recommended for the treatment and/or prevention of cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy. Vitamins A (beta-carotene), C, E and K and carotenoids (lutein and zeaxanthin) are high in antioxidants and found in most green leafy vegetables, thus protecting them from free radical damage, according to The Eye Digest. Persons taking warfarin, also known as Coumadin, should cautiously maintain normal and consistent levels of vitamin K in their diets, as a sudden increase or decrease in vitamin K causes a counteractive effect.
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Benefits of Vitamin A (Oil)
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Vitamin A may be consumed as an oil or a food source. According to Life Clinic, vitamin A, also called retinol, helps the eyes adjust between light-dark fluctuation (indoors-outdoors), and produces moisture of the eyes, skin and and mucous membranes. Vitamin A, which predominantly comes from animal foods, has some origin in plant-based foods as well. Beta-carotene when consumed is naturally converted by the body into vitamin A. Vitamin A prevents cataracts and corrects night blindness. Vitamin A may be consumed in the form of an oil (capsule or free flowing) or as a food source. Cod liver oil, liver (chicken, beef), carrots, sweet potatoes, kale, spinach, cantaloupe, mango, butternut squash and sweet red peppers are rich in vitamin A.
Recommended Dosages
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According to All About Vision, "The U.S. RDA (recommended daily allowance) for males age 11+ is 1,000 Retinol Equivalents (RE); the RDA for females age 11+ is 800 RE. Vitamin A is also measured in International Units (IU): 1 RE = 10 IU for plant products and 1 RE = 3.3 IU for animal products."
Care For the Eyes
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Refrain from touching eyes with unwashed hands. According to Herbs 2000, to maintain proper hygiene and care of the eyes, don't rub eyes with unwashed hands. Refrain from sharing towels, since many infections are passed this way. Change pillowcases and towels regularly. Because of the high probability of transmitting infection from one person to the next, take caution in handling the eyes. In the event of eye infection, avoid wearing contact lenses and eye makeup, as these items can aggravate and further perpetuate infection and discomfort of the eyes.
Precautions of Vitamin A Use
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As of 2010, there are no known side effects to vitamin A usage. With all supplements however, adhere to the recommended dosages to prevent toxicity.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit eye image by Stanisa Martinovic from Fotolia.com spinach image by ivan kmit from Fotolia.com Olive Oils image by travesty from Fotolia.com eye image by Julija Sapic from Fotolia.com
