Ten Essentials to Save Your Sight!

Edward C. Kondrot, MD, Board certified ophthalmologist and homeopath, international best selling author and host of Healthy Vision Talk Radio Show will address the “The 10 Essentials to Save your Vision.” Take this step now to save your vision!!
You will learn the following
1) Food is the best medicine! What foods will help restore your vision and what foods are robbing you of your sight?
2) 80% of people are deficient in this essential mineral for sight!
3) Proper hydration can cure many diseases!
4) How to reduce harmful stress that is linked to most eye disorders!
5) What are the facts regarding stem cell therapy?
6) How can homeopathy help your eye problem?
7) What is the scientific evidence that microcurrent can improve vision!
What is Syntonic light therapy and how is this being used to stimulate stem cells?
9) What are the best ways to detox the body?
10) What is Dr. Kondrot’s 3 day program and can it help me?

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Homeopathy in the Treatment of Eye Disease
Here is the answer to what is homeopathic medicine and its efficacy in treating eye disease. Homeopathy is an empirical system of medicine established by Samuel Hahnemann who was born in Dresden, Germany in 1755. The word “homeopathy” is derived from the Greek word homoios (similar) and pathos (suffering or disease). There is an interesting story behind why is   alternative medicine so popular. Samuel Hahnemann was a chemist and physician and was also fluent in six languages. He became dissatisfied with the standard modalities of treating disease, which included bloodletting, use of toxic metals,  and purgatives.

While translating “A Treatise on Materia Medica”, by Dr. William Cullen, he came across a passage describing the use of cinchona bark in the treatment of malaria.  Cullen stated that cinchona was a valuable drug because of its astringent qualities. He decided to take the cinchona and observe in detail his own symptoms. To his surprise he developed a symptom complex very similar to the malaria.

This supported the law of healing described by Hypocrites called the “Law of Similars”.  Drugs which produce symptoms in a healthy person will treat those symptoms in a disease state. Hahnemann then proceeded to test or “prove” many other compounds including Aconite, Belladonna and Calcarea carbonica. The symptoms were carefully recorded and were published in the “Materia Medica Pura” and “Chronic Diseases.”

Hahnemann, using his skills of critical observation, developed this system of homeopathy over many years.  Additional provings based on experiments lead to a system of healing.  Other provings were conducted, and these provings became the basis for inclusion in the “Homeopathic Pharmacopoeia.”  The current (ninth) edition describes how more than a thousand substances are prepared for homeopathic use.

These provings became the foundation for homeopathic prescribing.  Hahnemann further developed this system of Homeopathy over a course of many years and performed many additional provings.  Hahnemann’s very critical observation transformed itself into a system of healing based on the following laws:

The Law of Similars
The symptoms of the patient must be matched to the proving symptoms of the remedy for the drug to act homeopathically. This is the basic and most important law in homeopathy. In selecting a remedy not only the physical particular symptoms of the disease but also mental, emotional and general symptoms must match the remedy.

The physical particulars need to be defined as accurately as possible including precise location, extension (symptoms that extend into other parts of the body), and modalities (circumstances that will cause an aggravation or amelioration of the symptoms.  In addition, concomitants are also important. They are unrelated symptoms that may not be explained by the commonly understood pathophysiological process of the disease. An example of a concomitant would be a headache, which occurs during diarrhea.

Single remedy
Homeopathic remedies that are used have been tested by provings of a single remedy. Combination remedies are untested and their proving symptoms are not known. It is impossible to then match symptoms of the patient with these theoretical combinations. Hahnemann in his writings emphasized the importance of only using one remedy at a time.

He felt that the combination of remedies was dangerous, and this combination would produce a different set of symptoms that may not match those of the person.  It is important to understand the action of one remedy and the response of the person to that remedy. If a person has a positive response or negative response when using combination remedies, it would not be known what remedy was responsible for the action. This would interfere with future treatment when repetition or changing of the dose is required.

Single dose
One dose will stimulate the body and create a change. It is important to let this action continue and not be disturbed by repeating the remedy. If the remedy is repeated too soon its action will interfere with the action of the first dose, resulting in an aggravation or a neutralization of its action.

Minimum dose
This is another one of the basic tenets of homeopathy. The lowest possible dose should be used to stimulate the natural healing action of the body.  The homeopathic remedy is similar to an enzyme or a hormone in its action.  A small amount is all that is needed to effect a change. Hahnemann taught, that additional doses of medicine would cease to be therapeutic.

The Law of dilution and succussion
Hahnemann was concerned about the side effects of many of the medications that were commonly used. Through a serious of carefully controlled experiments, Hahnemann discovered that medications could be diluted and still maintain medicinal properties. It was also noted that the dilute medications produced fewer side effects.
Hahnemann also discovered that by succussing (striking or shaking the medicated solution), an apparent activation of the substance developed which increased its healing power.

The more the medication is diluted and succussed, the stronger are the medicinal effects. There have been several experiments conducted in water physics to demonstrate that water crystals develop which can act much like an enzyme substrate reaction to transfer the characteristics of the material substance. Homeopathic remedies are commonly prescribed in the decimal potency 3X to 30X (Diluted ten fold) and centessimal potency (6C to 200C) (Diluted one hundred fold)

Laws of Cure

The homeopath, Constantine Herring, observed this phenomena.  It is not enough to rid the body of symptoms of disease, but the goal is cure. Disease moves in a specific direction during cure. It moves from vital organs to less vital organs, from within to outside, from above to below, and in the reverse order of appearance.

History of Homeopathy and Ophthalmology
There is a very strong history of homeopathy used in Ophthalmology. The  New York Ophthalmic Hospital was under homeopathic management from 1852 to 1867. In 1931 over 31,000 patients were treated at this institution.  College of the New York Ophthalmic Hospital (1879-1939) offered  postgraduate courses in Homeopathic Ophthalmology. The American Homeopathic Ophthalmology and Otology Society  was founded in 1877 and the Homeopathic Eye, Ear and Throat Journal was published from 1895 to 1905)

Let’s now review two diseases, cataracts and macular degeneration, and the role of homeopathy in the treatment.

Cataracts
A. B. Norton published a retrospective Study looking at the homeopathic treatment of cataracts in 295 Patients. 100 Patients were under treatment for longer then 3 months. Results: Improvement in 58% of cases, no change in 42%, Slight decrease in 26%, Significant decrease 19%.

The best indication of success is the level of vision before treatment.  Dr. Norton looked at two groups. Vision better than 15/50 the results were as follows: decided increase in 14%, slight increase in 26%, no increase in 60%. Vision worse than 15/50 the results were as follows: decided increase in 29%, slight increase in 26%, no increase in 45%. So the earlier you treat the cataract the better the results.

In regards to specific remedies, the following 3 remedies where used in 78% of all cases:

Causticum was used in 64/100 cases. Keynote symptoms are feeling of sand in the eye, sensation of pressure, heaviness of the eyelids. There is also burning and itching, desire to keep eyes closed, photophobia and flashes of light.

Calcaria phosphoricum was used in 15/100 cases. Symptoms are headaches especially of the right side and pain around the right eye. There is a tired feeling and stiffness around the eyes.

Sepia was used in 9/100 cases. Symptoms are a weak feeling in the eyes that are worse towards evening.  Symptoms are better middle of the day. There are sharp pains in the eyes, heaviness of the lids and twitching of the lids. There is a strange symptom of smarting of the eyes relieved by eating.

Macular degeneration

Age Related Macular Degeneration (ARMD) affects 13 million Americans. Most of them are over the age of 65, but certain hereditary conditions may cause it to develop in younger individuals. Persons over the age of 75 have a 30% chance of developing ARMD; it rarely affects anyone younger than 55 years old. The homeopathic treatment of macular degeneration is a unique opportunity since there is no effective conventional treatment.   My experiences using homeopathy in the treatment of this disorder were published in the New England Journal of Homeopathy, “Homeopathic approach in the treatment of macular degeneration”

Tissue salts
Tissue salts can also be useful in the treatment of macular degeneration. The follow salts have found to be helpful in the treatment of ARMD.

• Calcaria fluorica 8X this is often called the tissue strengthener
• Calcaria phosphorica  6X  is referred to as the cell builder.
• Kalium  phosphorica 6X  is called the nerve nutrient
• Natrum muriaticum 6X  is the fluid distributor helping with dryness or excessive moisture in any parts of the body. It can be helpful in cases of wet macular degeneration.

Carboneum sulphuratum
Carboneum Sulphuratum is a homeopathic remedy used to treat ARMD when there are symptoms of a central scotoma worse looking at red or green objects. 30C everyday has been shown to resolve drusen and pigmentary changes.

Secale
Secale is another remedy to consider in the treatment of macular degeneration. Secale is used in low potency in chilly patients with circulatory problems and hemorrhagic tendencies.

Senecula
Senecula  can be used in cases of macular degeneration with the symptom of wavy vision.

Dry Eyes
Here are some common homeopathic remedies for dry eyes.  Suggested dosage is a 6 or 12C twice a day. As with all homeopathic remedies you should stop the medication when symptoms improve.

ACONTINUM NAPELLUS (Acon.)
Symptoms from an exposure to a cold dry wind. Dryness, burning, sensitiveness to air.  Burning in the eyes especially worse in the evening.

ARSENICUM ALBUM (Ars-a)
Burning of the margins of the lid. Feeling of sand in the eyes in the evening. Pulsating and throbbing eye pain after midnight. Light sensitivity.

BELLADONNA (Bell.) Feeling of heat in the eyes. Feeling as if the eyes are protruded.  Severe throbbing pain in the eye and head, worse at night.

EUPRHASIA (Euphr.) Eyes irritated, burning with acrid and profuse tearing. Light sensitivity with intense blinking.

PULSATILLA (Puls.) Eyelids are stuck together by yellow discharge in the morning. Symptoms better in the cool  open air.

MERCURIUS (Merc.) Redness of eyes with thin and acrid tearing which is worse at night. Marked light sensitivity. Symptoms similar to Euphrasia , but they are more marked and there is night time aggravation.

SULPHUR (Sulph.) Watering in the morning followed by dryness. Redness of the eyes during the day. Redness and burning of the eyelids.

ZINC- Eyelids stick together in the morning. Eyes are painful in the evening  with a sensation of sand in the eyes with frequent watering. Constant burning in the eyes with a feeling of dryness. Hot scalding tears.

A formulated  homeopathic  product for dry eyes is  Similasan Eye Drops #1. The dosage is one to two drops every hour as needed.

Computer Eye Strain
Here are some common Homeopathic remedies for eye strain:

RUTA GRAVEOLENS: Ailments from straining especially from fine work . Symptoms are worse during exertion of vision. There can be a feeling stiffness in the eye muscles.

NATRIUM MURIATICUM: There is a bruised and stiff sensation, which is worse while reading and exerting the vision.  It is difficult to read and the letters can run together.

PHYSOSTIGMA: There is twitching of the muscles around the eye. There can also be difficulty focusing and irritability after using eyes. The pupils can sometimes appear very small from eyestrain.

ONOSMODIUM: There is a strained and tired feeling in eye muscles. There can also be a tense drawing pain over the eyes. This pain tends to be worse over the over left eye. Distances are difficult to judge.

References
Bellavite, P., MD and Signorini, A., Homeopathy: A Frontier in Medical Science.  Berkeley, California, North Atlantic, December, 1995.

Benveniste, J.: “Further Biological Effects Induced by Ultra High Dilutions: Inhibition by a Magnetic Field,” in Ultra High Dilution, P.C.  Endler and J. Schulte, (eds.), Dordrecht: Kluwer Academic, 1994, 35.

Berridge, E.W. Complete Repertory to the Homeopathic Materia Medica: Diseases of the Eye, 1873

Clarke, J.H., MD, A Dictionary of Practical Materia Medica, Volume 3, B. Jain Publishers Pvt. Ltd., New Delhi, India, 1984

Cook, Trevor M, M.S., Ph.D., C.Chem., FRSC, MHMA, President, United Kingdom Homeopathic Medical Association, Principal, Hahnemann College of Homeopathy, Director, British Institute of Homeopathy, Homeopathic Medicine Today: A modern Course of Study, Keats Publishing, New Canaan, CT, 1989.

Farrington, H., MD, Homeopathy and Homeopathic Prescribing, B. Jain Publishers Pvt. Ltd., New Delhi, India, 1993.

Kent, T. K., MD, Lectures on Homeopathic Materia Medica, B. Jain Publishers Pvt. Ltd., New Delhi, India, 1986.  ISBN 81-7021-002-X.

Kent, T.K., MD, Lectures on Homeopathic Philosophy, North Atlantic Books, Richmond, CA, 1979.

Kunzli, J., MD, Naude’, A., and Pendelton, P.,  Organon of Medicine of Samuel Hahnemann, translation from German, 6th edition, J.P. Tarcher, Inc., Los Angeles, CA, 1982.

Kondrot, E C , New England Journal of Homeopathy,  “Homeopathic approach in the treatment of macular degeneration”  Spring/Summer 2001.

Kondrot, E C , Healing the Eye the Natural Way, North Atlantic Books, Richmond, CA, 2000.

Lo, Shui-Yin, Anomalous State of Ice, Excerpt from Modern Physics Letters B, Vol. 10, No. 19 (1996) 909-919 (c) World scientific Publishing Company.

Moffat, J. Homeopathic Therapeutics in Ophthalmology. 1916.

Norton, A. B. Ophthalmic Diseases & Therapeutics 1872.

Norton, A. B., The Homeopathic Treatment of Incipient Senile Cataract, with Tabulated Results of One Hundred Cases, North American Journal of Homeopathy 1891

O’Reilly, W.B., PhD, Organon of the Medical Art: Samuel Hahnemann, MD, Birdcage Books, Redmond, WA, 1996.

Schuessler, W. Biochemical Treatment of Disease.

Vithoulkas, G., The Science of Homeopathy, Grove Press, Inc., New York, NY 1980.

Whitmont, E.C., Psyche and Substance: Essays on Homeopathy in the Light of Jungian Psychology, North Atlantic Books,  Richmond, CA, 1982.

Read what online users have to say about What is homeopathic medicine

Dr. Edward Kondrot is a board-certified Ophthalmologist and certified homeopathic doctor. He is the author of Healing the Eye the Natural Way: Alternative Medicine and Macular Degeneration, and Microcurrent Stimulation: Miracle Eye Cure. In addition, he is the director of the Farrington School of Homeopathy in Pittsburgh and is a core faculty member at the Desert Institute of Classical Homeopathy in Phoenix.  His two main offices are in Phoenix, Arizona and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. His web page is www.homeopathiceye.com and he can be reached at 1-800-430-9328.

Listen to Dr. Kondrot’s radio show  “Healthy Vision” every Monday at 11:00 AM  MST on KFNX 1100 or listen on the Internet at www.nabcinc.com

Cataracts: What are they?
Cataracts can occur due to a number of reasons. However, they can also be prevented and treated with homeopathy, herbs or surgery. There are barely any problems after cataract surgery as it is one of the most successful treatments to get rid of cataracts. Here is a look at what are cataracts, causes, prevention and treatments along with the answer to the question ‘is alternative medicine safe’

Constantinus Africanus (AD 1018), a monk and an Arabic oculist introduced the term “cataract”. He translated Arabic “suffusion” into Latin “cataracta,” meaning, “something poured underneath something, the waterfall.”  It was felt that the clouding of vision was do to a film falling like water over the eye. Cataracts are not a film but are a clouding, hardness and loss of elasticity, which occur in the human lens. Cataracts are associated with general arteriosclerotic changes, diabetes, sun exposure, trauma and poor nutrition. It is a fact of life that the longer you live the greater your likelihood of developing a cataract. Over 50% of people over the age of 60 will develop cataracts.

Cataracts: What is the cause?

Aging
As a person ages changes in the protein of the lens develop. Oxidative reactions develop which form abnormal disulfide and other covalent linkages. This causes the lens fibers to lose their transparency.

Trauma
Penetrating trauma from injury or ocular surgery usually results in rapidly progressive cataract, with lens fiber swelling, fragmentation, and opacification. Concussive injuries can infrequently cause a rupture of the lens capsule with the development of a cataract or more commonly a contusion cataract forms in the anterior or posterior cortex. These traumatic cataracts may be transitory, or they can remain if the lens fibers are damaged sufficiently.

Radiation
Ionizing radiation has a very high cataract producing affect, and the lens is its most sensitive target within the adult eye. Its damage is dose related and cumulative. The sources of electromagnetic radiation energy most important in damage to the lens are ionizing radiation (x-rays, gamma rays, and neutrons), emission of infrared or ultraviolet rays from various hot bodies, and microwave.

Heavy metal poisoning
Copper, iron and mercury poisoning can lead to the development of cataracts. Copper deposition in Wilson’s disease produces a characteristic sunflower cataract. In this inherited disease there is copper deposition in tissues, especially the liver, causing cirrhosis, and in the basal ganglia of the brain.

Metabolic disorders
Galactosemia and diabetes are two hereditary diseases, which are related to the development of cataracts. Galactosemia is an uncommon hereditary disease of the newborn producing bilateral cataracts, mental retardation and enlargement of the liver. In diabetes mellitus, the usual cataract in these patients does not differ from senile cataract but occurs 20 to 30 years earlier than in a non-diabetic.

Vitamin and mineral deficiency
Oxidative damage contributes to the decrease natural antioxidants in the lens, such as glutathione,  inositol, and ascorbic acid. Aging, diet, and other disease also play roles in deficiency of antioxidants.

Can cataracts be prevented?

Sunlight
UV and Blue Violet sunrays increase the risk of developing cataracts. There are over 951 different references to back up the claim that sun light is the primary cause of cataracts. . Studies have shown that people who spend a great deal of time outdoors are three times as likely to develop cataracts. A good pair of sunglasses which block 100% of UVA and UVB and block at least 85% of blue violet sun rays are essential to protect the eyes from the harmful effects of the sun. On sunny days a wide brim hat should also be worn.

Smoking
If you smoke please do everything possible to stop. Smoking tobacco, especially more than 20 cigarettes per day, increases the risk of cataracts by more than 2 times. The risk in ex-smokers is 50 percent higher compared to non-smokers. Each cigarette also robs the body of 25 mg of vitamin C. Smokers have an increase in lipids (both fat and cholesterol) which increase the risk of severe cardiovascular disease. These factors produce narrowing of the retina blood vessels that carry valuable nutrients to the eye.

Alcoholic Consumption
High intake of alcohol can more than doubles the risk of developing cataracts. More than 7 drinks per week will increase the risk, while moderate use does not seem to increase the risk.

Sugar and Cataracts
Diabetics develop cataracts at an earlier age than non- diabetics do. An accumulation of sorbitol and fructose in the lens can induce osmotic swelling of the lens, which will lead to the development of a cataract. A significant number of adults who develop cataracts have undiagnosed diabetes. If you have diabetes, every effort should be made to keep your blood sugar under control. There have been several studies to show that vitamin C can help reduce the level of sorbitol and reduce the incidence of cataract formation.

Vitamins and Nutrients
There have been many large-scale studies to show the effectiveness of vitamins on reducing the incidence of cataracts. A Canadian studied showed that patients over the age of 55 who consumed vitamin C and E supplements reduced their risk of developing cataracts by over 50%. A double blind study involving 30,000 patients performed at the University of Helsinki also demonstrated the beneficial effects of vitamins.

Glutathione
Loss of glutathione occurs in all forms of cataracts. Since 1912, researches have shown that reduced levels of glutathione precede the development of cataracts. With increasing age the levels of glutathione content of the human lens decreases by 4 to 14 times. Glutathione supplements are available but it is questioned weather this large molecule can pass through the digestive tract. N-acetyl-cysteine, a stable amino acid, has been shown to raise the levels of glutathione. Cysteine is found in protein rich eggs. Completely avoiding eggs may rob the body of this amino acid, which may have anti cataract properties.

Vitamin C
The lens of the human eye is bathed in a vitamin C rich aqueous solution, which is 30 times more concentrated than the human blood. It appears that this vitamin C acts as an ultraviolet filter preventing the harmful effects of ultraviolet light. With age the levels of vitamin C begin to decrease and this may contribute to the formation of the senile cataract. There are several studies, which have shown that high dosages of vitamin C (1000 mg/ day) will reverse the development of some cataracts.

Riboflavin (Vitamin B2)
Riboflavin helps to make a substance called flavine adenine dinuceotide, which is necessary for the production of glutathione. High levels of glutathione have been shown to keep the human lens clear and prevent the development of cataracts. In one study, 81 percent of patients with cataracts were deficient in riboflavin.

The vitamin supplement that I recommend is a Cataract Nutritional Formula manufactured by Nutritional Research. Information can be obtained from (877) 341-2703 or www.nutritionalresearch.net

Other Herbal Treatment – Is alternative medicine safe?

Cineraria maritima (Dusty Miller)

The government of India’s Central Council for Research in Homeopathy, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has stated that tincture of Cineraria Maritima Succus is the drug of choice, which prevents the development of cataract. The recommended therapy is 1 to 2 drops in the eye, 3 to 6 times daily.

Boericke describes that it is most effective in traumatic cases and should be instilled into the eye one drop four or five times a day for several. Clarke states that patients should be receiving specific homeopathic treatment internally at the same time.

Homeopathy and Cataracts
Homeopathy is scientific method of therapy based on the principle of stimulating the body’s own healing processes in order to accomplish cure. The basic system was devised and verified by Samuel Hahnemann, a German physician, nearly 200 years ago. Homeopathy’s astounding success rates in both chronic and acute diseases has resulted in not only standing the test of time, but also rapidly achieving widespread acceptance in Europe, India and South America.

In Homeopathy (“homeo-” means “similar”), each of us is a total and complete individual, no aspect of which can be separated from any other. To be effective, any valid therapy must be based on a deep understanding of and respect for the uniqueness of each individual. In Homeopathy each patient is evaluated as a whole person- mental, emotional and physical. The prescribing remedy is based on the unique patterns found on all three levels. This means that each person is given a remedy that will stimulate his or her particular body to heal. Ten people with Cataracts might receive ten different homeopathic remedies.

Is homeopathy effective in the treatment of cataracts?  A. B. Norton, MD reviewed his experience on this subject, which was published in North American Journal of Homeopathy.  The Homeopathic Treatment of Incipient Senile Cataract, with Tabulated Results of One Hundred Cases was a convincing study to prove the validity of homeopathy.  This study looked at the homeopathic treatment of cataracts in 295 Patients. 100 Patients were under treatment for longer then 3 months. Results: Improvement in 58% of cases, no change in 42%, Slight decrease in 26%, Significant decreases in 19%.

Cataract Surgery

Cataract surgery is one of the most success surgical procedures performed. It is now performed with minimal or no anesthesia and most patients have immediate recovery with no limitations in their activity. It should be considered in advanced cataracts with visual limitation if homeopathic and other non-invasive methods are not successful.

Read other users problems after cataract surgery experience .

Age-related macular degeneration (ARMD) is the most common cause of irreversible blindness in people over the age of 65. As many as 1/3 of people over 80 will develop this condition.  It is a slow progressive disease that affects the central area of the retina called the macula. This is the location of the retina responsible for central vision, which gives us the greatest detail in our sight. There has been no effective treatment of this condition until recently. Several therapies are now showing great promise in slowing the progression and in many cases reversing the degeneration.

The exact cause of macular degeneration is not known. Many of the changes that develop are related to arteriosclerosis and aging of the tiny blood vessels inside the eye. Other contributing factors are increase in the levels of antioxidants, elevated levels of saturated fats and cholesterol.  Smoking more than doubles the risk of ARMD and prolonged exposure to ultraviolet light can increase your risk.

There are several types of macular degeneration.  The two common types described are the dry and wet types.  The dry type, or the majority of cases of ARMD, consists of degeneration of the retinal pigment cells resulting in drusen (small wart like growth) hyper and hypopigmented areas in the retina with loss of rods and cones and generalized atrophy.  The wet type or exudative type presents as vascular leakage with exudates and a detachment of the retina with loss of vision.  A small percentage of these cases can be treated successfully with the argon laser.

There is another type of macular degeneration, which occurs in the diabetic.  This results from leakage of small blood vessels, which leads to fluid accumulation under the retina and loss of central vision.

What can be done to prevent or cure ARMD?

#1 Begin a healthy diet for eye
Patients should shift their diet away from meats and dairy products towards a largely vegetarian diet that includes cold water fish (salmon and cod) and eggs.  There is evidence that this type of diet will help in weight reduction, reduce the risk of arteriosclerotic vascular disease, lower blood pressure, reduce the incidence of diabetes and improve blood flow to the eye.

# 2 Develop an exercise program
A regular exercise program improves your cardiovascular system, helps keep off extra pounds, lowers cholesterol, reduces high blood pressure and improves retinal circulation to the eye.  Exercise also helps to improve your mental outlook and reduces stress.  These factors are important in helping the body fight disease.  This is probably the best thing you will do for your health!

#3 Begin a program of meditation
Meditation is exercise for the mind. It is well known that there is a mind body connection in health and disease. Meditation will help reduce stresses that adversely affect our bodies. Studies have shown that meditation helps to lower blood pressure, slow the heart rate and produces a general feeling of well being.

There are many different methods to meditate depending on one’s religious background. It can be a simple prayer, positive visualization, saying a positive affirmation or utilizing techniques to slow the breathing.

#4 Eliminate coffee, aspirin, margarine, and alcohol and stop smoking. Why?
Coffee should be reduced or eliminated. Studies have shown that coffee can produce a 13% reduction in retinal blood flow.  This is especially important in patients that have existing retinal damage and who are losing vision.

Several studies shown that there is an increase risk of bleeding into the eyes in patients with macular degeneration who take aspirin.  I advise all patients with macular degeneration to discuss this risk with their doctor. Consider alternatives such as Vitamin E and gingko biloba to reduce platelet aggregation.

Margarine interferes with the circulation and with the synthesis of gamma linolenic acid.
Avoid eating margarine, Crisco and hydrogenated fats. They are all toxic and they interfere with the synthesis of this essential fatty acid.  Gamma linolenic acid along with selenium is needed to maintain normal vasculature of the retinal vessels.

High alcohol consumption also reduces the levels of antioxidants and carotenoids. Avoid alcohol or severely limit your intake to maintain the proper levels of these important antioxidants.

If you smoke please do everything possible to stop.  There is a 6.6 times greater risks of developing macular degeneration in smokers, even former smokers have a 3.2 greater risk

#5 Protect your eyes from sunlight
UV and Blue Violet sunrays increase the risk of developing macular degeneration.  Studies have shown that people who spend a great deal of time outdoors are twice as likely to develop macular degeneration.  A good pair of sunglasses which block 100% of UVA and UVB and block at least 85% of blue violet sun rays are essential to protect the eyes from the harmful effects of the sun.

#6 Begin a program of antioxidants and mineral supplements
The results of the Multicenter Ophthalmic and Nutritional Age Related Macular Degeneration Study in 1996 showed that AMD subjects who were given a broad spectrum antioxidant stabilized in their better functioning eyes. The subjects that used placebos (no vitamins) lost an average of one line of vision.

Selenium is a vital antioxidant, which protects the immune system, preventing the formation of free radicals.  It is especially important to combine Selenium with Vitamin E.  They act together to aid in the production of antibodies and to help maintain a healthy heart, liver and eyes.
The Archives of Ophthalmology reported a study that tested the effectiveness of Zinc in macular degeneration.  Patients who took zinc supplements showed significantly less deterioration than patients who received no Zinc.  It is now recommended that moderate dosages of Zinc may be beneficial in macular degeneration.

#7 Eat a diet rich in carotenoids.  Eat colorful foods to maintain good color vision

Carotenoids
Lutein and Zeaxanthin are carotenoids, which make up the pigment in the macula of the eye. These pigments, which give food their color, are found in eggs, colored fruits and leafy green vegetable.  The following are good sources of carotenoids: kale, spinach, mustard greens, pumpkins, eggs, corn, orange peppers and grapes. Eggs contain the highest amount of both compounds, corn contains the most Lutein and orange peppers have the most Zeaxanthin.

They are needed to help maintain the macula lutea, the part of retina responsible for the sharpest vision. They also act as a filter to protect the eye against photo induced damage and they also protect the eye from free radicals
A recent study by the national Institutes of health found that people who ate the highest amounts of food rich in carotenoids had a 43% lower risk of developing macular degeneration.

Carotenoid Rich Vegetables
Vegetable (100 grams)              Beta- carotene*             Lutein/Zeaxanthin*
Raw carrot                                    7,900                                260
Kale                                              4,700                           21,900
Brussel sprouts                                480                             1,300
Raw spinach                                 4,100                            10,200
Corn                                                  51                                780
Broccoli                                           700                             1,900
Green peas                                       350                             1,700
Green beans                                       44                                740
Tomatoes                                         520                                100
Leaf greens                                   1,200                              1,800
Collard greens                               5,400                           16,300

*Amounts in micrograms.
Sources: Journal of the American Dietetic Association 1993: 284-295.

#8 Take herbal supplements shown to strengthen your eye

Bilberry
Interest developed in this European plant, when World War II British Air Force pilots reported improved night vision after taking Bilberry.  It is now used in Europe for many eye disorders including cataract, macular degeneration, retinitis pigmentosa and diabetic retinopathy.  It contains anthocyanosides, which have been shown to stabilize collagen, increase intracellular vitamin C levels and decrease capillary fragility.  Studies have also shown a decrease in platelet aggregation (similar affect as aspirin) and a reduction in blood sugar.  Bilberry may improve oxygen delivery to the eye and act as an antioxidant.

Ginkgo Biloba
It is a tree that lives as long as 1000 years.  Originally found in China, it was imported into the United States in 1784.  The Ginkgo leaf extracts are now among the leading prescription medications in both Germany and France.  The primary clinical application has been in the treatment of vascular insufficiency.  Many studies have demonstrated improved circulation in patients with arterial insufficiency.  In addition to improving retinal circulation, Ginkgo also has a protective affect against free radicals.  Another study has shown that a combination of Ginkgo Biloba and Zinc may slow the progression of visual loss.

#9 Begin homeopathic treatment to improve your health
Homeopathy is scientific method of therapy based on the principle of stimulating the body’s own healing processes in order to accomplish cure. The basic system was devised and verified by Samuel Hahnemann, a German physician, nearly 200 years ago. Homeopathy’s astounding success rates in both chronic and acute diseases has not only stood the test of time, but has rapidly achieved widespread acceptance in Europe, India and South America.

In Homeopathy (“homeo-” means “similar”), each of us is a total. complete individual, no aspect of which can be separated from any other. To be effective, any valid therapy must be based on a deep understanding of and respect for the uniqueness of each individual. In Homeopathy each patient is evaluated as a whole person- mental, emotional and physical. The prescribing remedy is based on the unique patterns found on all three levels. This means that each person is given a remedy that will stimulate his or her particular body to heal. Ten people with macular degeneration might receive ten different homeopathic remedies.

Homeopathy has been carefully researched and its effectiveness has been reported in the following well respected national medical journals: Jacobs J, Treatment of Acute Childhood Diarrhea with Homeopathic Medication. Pediatrics 1994; 93:719-7255, Reilly DT, Is Homeopathy a Placebo Response? Lancet 1986; Oct: 881-886 and Kleijnen J, Clinical Trails of Homeopathy. British Medical Journal 1991; 302: 315-323.

Homeopathy can be a valuable adjunct in your treatment of Macular Degeneration

#10) Begin Chelation or MCS Therapy

Chelation therapy is an intravenous therapy using the synthetic amino acid EDTA (Ethylene diamine tetraacetic acid) which has the ability to “bond” or “hook onto” atoms of calcium, lead, cadmium, mercury and some of the trace minerals. These minerals combined with the EDTA are eliminated from the body through the kidneys into the urine.
Chelation therapy is used for patients with heavy metal poisoning, poor circulation due to arteriosclerosis and conditions related to these primary diagnoses. The causes of macular degeneration are many but it is felt that arteriosclerosis and the formation of free radicals contribute to this disease. Chelation therapy has been documented to be helpful in both of these conditions. In arteriosclerosis, the blood vessels are damaged and then obstructed by the buildup of plaque. During and following chelation therapy, this plaque is dissolved very slowly and the blood flow throughout the body improves.

As its premier research project under the newly announced, the Macular Degeneration Foundation plans to conduct a nationwide controlled clinical trial to define the vision-enhancing value of administering what it terms Microcurrent Stimulation (MCS).
MCS is novel, non-invasive and inexpensive treatment adapted from a FDA approved therapy used to treat other disorders. In preliminary studies by the Foundation this treatment has improved both visual acuity and color perception. Foundation researchers plan to use state of the art electrophysiology tests to measure the impact of MCS on macular cells.  Individuals reporting a significant improvement in visual acuity after this therapy include legendary golfing great Sam Snead.

The Foundation’s two-year preliminary MCS trial involving 120 patients resulted in an average of:
68 percent improvement over pre-treatment vision for patients with dry macular degeneration.
58 percent improvement over pre-treatment vision for those with the wet form of macular degeneration.
Among certain subsets of patients with dry disease the results were even more dramatic, with a third gaining 100 percent or more improvement and a sixth gaining 150 percent or more improvement.
Patients were able to sustain these vision improvements over time by periodic self-administration of booster treatments and many reports that this therapy has made a remarkable difference to their lives.

What is MCS? Micro current stimulation is a novel, enhanced adaptation of an FDA approved therapy used by anesthesiologists, orthopedic surgeons and sports medicine physicians to alleviate both acute and chronic pain caused by injuries and arthritis and by plastic surgeons to promote the healing of wounds and some transplanted tissues.

Treatment of patients with macular degeneration entails periodic administration of pulses of small amounts of square-wave direct current at low voltages, delivered through electrodes in contact with the skin overlying key nerves around the affected eye.

We know that the photosensitive receptor cells in the macula have very high-energy requirements. One possible explanation is that MCS enables more normal macular function both by improving function of the vital supporting layer of cells called the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). Improved RPE function would facilitate improved entry of vital nutrients into macular cells and promote active transport of potentially harmful waste byproducts of the light-sensing process out of these cells.

Dr. Edward Kondrot, MD(H),CCH is a graduate of the Hahnemann Medical College in Philadelphia in 1977. He completed his Ophthalmology training at St. Francis Hospital in Pittsburgh and the Scheie Eye Institute in Philadelphia in 1981. He has practiced Homeopathy since 1990 and received his Diploma from the Hahnemann Homeopathic College in 1996. He is the author of Healing the Eye the Natural Way: Alternative Medicine and Macular Degeneration, and Microcurrent Stimulation: Miracle Eye Cure. He is a contributing author in the Clinician’s Rapid Access Guide to Complementary & Alternative Medicine, Mosby. He also revised the Eye and Vision Chapters in Synthesis, Repertorium Homeopathicum Syntheticum a leading homeopathic textbook.  In addition, he is the director of the Farrington School of Homeopathy in Pittsburgh and is a core faculty member at the Desert Institute of Classical Homeopathy in Phoenix.  His two main offices are in Phoenix, Arizona and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. His web page is www.homeopathiceye.com and he can be reached at 1-800-430-9328.

Edward C. Kondrot, MD, CCH

I am Dr. Edward Kondrot, a board certified ophthalmologist and certified homeopathic doctor. I have spent the last 20 years investigating alternative therapies to help people who are loosing their vision. My philosophy on healing is based on homeopathic principles- treat the person and the disease will get better. I enjoy working with my patients to improve their eyesight and clarity of vision. Find out more at The Kondrot Healing the Eye & Wellness Center website.

This forum is  for everyone interested in homeopathic ophthalmology. I hope you will join me and my patients here.

My patients will use this forum to discuss anything and everything related to their eye health or my treatment programs. I and my staff will try to jump in and reply to selected questions when we can. But mostly this is a patients’s forum and support group where patients can share their experiences. It is for everyone interested in the type of alternative ophthalmology I practice.

My patients generally have good experiences with my programs. I often receive glowing feedback. Take a look at some of the feedback my patients have sent me:

I’m impressed with how much the staff cares and believes in what they are doing. The “fog” has lifted.  Vision improvement is 17 letters in the right eye and 5 letters in the left eye.
P.M. (Optic Atrophy), Arizona

Everyone was friendly.  I saw a big change in reading!  I went from a J7 to J3 !  I’m able to read without my glasses. You explained everything and made it easy.  Vision improvement is 5 letters in right eye.
R.M. (Presbyopia, Hyperopia) Texas

I saulute the doctor for working with energy for not only the eye, but addressing the whole body and spirit.  It was wonderful to work with Doina, very talented and dedicated with much care for human beings.  I have more hope. Vision improvement is 5 letters in right eye and 10 letters in left eye.
A.N. (ARMD) New York

This is worth it! I feel so much better.  I’m driving at night and did not have a problem at all.  I’m not wearing my glasses at work! I see more clearly and can see further. Vision improvement is 9 letters in the right eye and 8 letters in the left eye. G.Q. (Cataracts) Georgia

see more testimonials

If you are not a patient or if you are unfamiliar with homeopathic and alternative ophthalmology, you may be skeptical about some of these testimonials. This forum is for you too! Here is your chance to ask questions of the people who have taken advantage of my homeopathic ophthalmology programs.

In this forum you will find free discussion between current patients as well as questions from interested people who have never experienced anything the fields of homeopathic and alternative ophthalmology have to offer. Jump in and ask your questions!