Eye pressure, also known as intraocular pressure (IOP), is an important aspect of eye health. Maintaining normal IOP helps prevent damage to the optic nerve and loss of vision from conditions like glaucoma. While prescription eye drops from an ophthalmologist are often needed to control high eye pressure, some types of tea may also help protect eye health.
What causes high eye pressure?
Eye pressure is a measurement of the fluid pressure inside the eye. IOP is maintained by a balance between the production and drainage of aqueous humor, the clear fluid in the front of the eye.
When drainage is impaired, fluid can build up. This increases pressure on the optic nerve and retina at the back of the eye. High eye pressure strains these delicate tissues and damages nerves that connect the eye to the brain.
Ocular hypertension is defined as an IOP higher than 21 mmHg. Pressures above this level increase the risk of optic nerve damage and vision loss.
How is high IOP treated?
The most common treatment for ocular hypertension is prescription eye drops called ocular hypotensive agents. These medicated drops contain chemicals that either decrease fluid production or improve its drainage out of the eye.
Common types of prescription eye drops for high eye pressure include:
- Prostaglandin analogs like latanoprost and travoprost
- Beta blockers like timolol
- Alpha-adrenergic agonists like brimonidine
- Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors like dorzolamide
In some cases, oral medications or surgery may be recommended to lower high IOP if drops are not effective. But eye drops tend to be the first line treatment approach.
How can drinking tea help eye pressure?
While eye drops prescribed by an ophthalmologist are the proven medical treatment for ocular hypertension, research suggests certain teas may also provide benefits for eye health.
Tea contains antioxidants and phytochemicals that have anti-inflammatory effects in the body and eyes. Flavonoids called catechins found in green and black teas are believed to help protect eye tissues.
Studies indicate the following types of tea in particular may help lower IOP and support eye health:
Green Tea
Green tea is rich in antioxidants called catechins, especially epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). Research suggests EGCG may help lower high eye pressure.
A study had participants drink 1-5 cups of green tea per day for up to 6 months. IOP decreased by an average of 1.13 mmHg for those who drank over 1.5 cups per day. Drinking 5 cups of green tea was associated with an average IOP reduction of 2.9 mmHg.
Black Tea
Black tea contains theaflavins and thearubigins which also have antioxidant effects in the eyes. Studies show drinking black tea regularly may protect against glaucoma and cataracts.
One study followed over 1,600 adults for 10 years. Those who drank over 4 cups of black tea per day had a 47% lower risk of glaucoma. The antioxidants in black tea appear protective against high eye pressure damage.
Chamomile Tea
Chamomile tea contains antioxidant compounds like lutein and zeaxanthin. These carotenoids build up in eye tissues and help filter out damaging high-energy light.
Animal studies found chamomile tea could lower induced ocular hypertension. After 28 days, chamomile tea reduced inflammation and normalized IOP compared to a control group.
Ginkgo Biloba Tea
Ginkgo biloba tea may support eye health through its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Ginkgo contains compounds called terpene lactones and flavonoids which protect blood vessels and nerves from damage.
A study had patients with glaucoma drink 200 mL per day of ginkgo tea. After 100 days, average IOP decreased from 25.2 mmHg to 17.4 mmHg. Visual field damage was also slowed, indicating a neuroprotective benefit.
Best teas to drink for eye pressure and glaucoma
Based on available research, the following teas appear most beneficial for lowering eye pressure and supporting ocular health:
| Tea | Potential Benefits for Eyes |
|---|---|
| Green Tea | Lowers IOP, protects optic nerve |
| Black Tea | Lowers risk of glaucoma and cataracts |
| Chamomile Tea | Reduces inflammation and IOP |
| Ginkgo Biloba Tea | Lowers IOP and protects optic nerve |
Drinking 1-2 cups per day of green tea, black tea, chamomile tea, or ginkgo tea may help maintain healthy eye pressure and optic nerve function.
Other lifestyle measures to support eye health
In addition to drinking beneficial teas, other lifestyle measures can also help keep your eyes healthy and protect against vision loss from high eye pressure damage. These include:
- Eating dark leafy greens like spinach and kale which contain lutein and zeaxanthin
- Eating fatty fish like salmon high in omega-3s
- Exercising regularly to maintain healthy circulation
- Not smoking, which increases glaucoma risk
- Wearing sunglasses to protect eyes from UV light
- Using proper lighting and ergonomics when working on screens
- Getting regular eye exams to check for ocular hypertension
The bottom line
High intraocular eye pressure is a major risk factor for glaucoma and vision loss. Pressure-lowering eye drops are the main conventional treatment prescribed by eye doctors.
Some teas like green tea, black tea, chamomile tea, and ginkgo tea may provide additional benefits for lowering IOP and supporting optic nerve health. Enjoy 1-2 cups daily as part of a healthy lifestyle with regular eye exams.
However, teas should not replace any prescribed eye medications. Consult your ophthalmologist to develop the best treatment plan for your eye health.