Ocubright

Ocubright is designed to help maintain visual acuity and eye health using minerals, herbs, an amino acid, and herbal extracts. The result is a well-designed formula that supports men and women of all ABO blood types.

With the recent addition of the essential amino acid L-Taurine, Ocubright now comprises seven perfectly balanced and synergistic ingredients for vision:

Zinc (from zinc picolinate).  Zinc is a biologically essential trace element and is the second most abundant trace element in the body. The total body content is about 2 grams. (1) It is a cofactor in many biological processes including DNA, RNA, and protein synthesis. About 30% of cellular zinc is found within the nucleus. A large number of proteins that play a role in the regulation of gene expression are thought to contain zinc. (2) Zinc also plays a role in immune function, wound healing, reproduction, growth and development, behavior and learning, taste and smell, blood clotting, thyroid hormone function, and insulin action. (3) Zinc is found in more than 300 enzymes. (2)

Nearly 100 enzymes depend on zinc as a catalyst. (4) Zinc is also required in hepatic synthesis of retinol binding protein, the transport protein of vitamin A. (5) Without adequate zinc, symptoms of vitamin A deficiency can appear, despite vitamin A supplementation. (5) There are many other important roles that zinc plays in the human body, but one of the most important roles it plays is a key role in the maintenance of vision. It is present in high concentrations in the eye, particularly in the retina and choroid. Zinc deficiency can alter vision, and severe deficiency causes changes in the retina and retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). Zinc interacts with taurine and vitamin A in the retina, modifies plasma membranes in the photoreceptors, regulates the light-rhodopsin reaction within the photoreceptor, modulates synaptic transmission, and serves as an antioxidant in both the RPE and retina. It seems to slow the progression of some degenerative retinal diseases. (1) Topically, zinc sulfate ophthalmic solution acts as a mild astringent, precipitating protein and clearing mucus from the outer surface of the eye. (6)

Taking zinc orally in combination with antioxidant vitamins doesn’t seem to help treat or prevent cataracts. Taking elemental zinc 80 mg plus vitamin C 500 mg, vitamin E 400 IU, and beta-carotene 15 mg daily does not seem to have any effect on the development or progression of age-related lens opacities (cataracts) or the need for cataract surgery in well-nourished people 55-80 years of age. However, it is unknown whether earlier intervention and/or a longer period of treatment with supplements would have any effect on cataracts. (7)

Copper (from copper glycinate).  Copper is an essential trace mineral. It is widely distributed in foods particularly in organ meats, seafood, nuts, seeds, wheat bran cereals, grain products, and cocoa products. Absorption occurs primarily in the small intestine with lesser absorption in the stomach. The majority of copper in the body is in the skeleton and muscles; the liver maintains plasma copper concentrations. Excretion of copper into the gastrointestinal tract regulates copper homeostasis; greater excretion is the result of increased absorption (4).

Large amounts of zinc can inhibit copper absorption, due to competition for absorption from the gut, which is why attention must be paid to both minerals and is the reason for the addition of a small amount of copper in Ocubright. (8,9,10)

Eyebright Herb (from Euphrasia spp.).  Typically, the leaves and the stems are the parts of the plant used. Tannin constituents may be responsible for astringent properties. The constituent caffeic acid has bacteriostatic activity. Constituents, aucubin and iridoid glycosides, have purgative activity. (11)

Eyebright herb also contains some quercetin, vitamin C, rutin, essential fatty acids, ferulic acid, sterols, choline, some basic compounds and a volatile oil. Unfortunately, there has been no significant scientific research into the merits of this “elegant little plant.” None of the chemical components of eyebright have been associated with a significant therapeutic effect, even with regard to the German Commission E Monograph on Eyebright, and there are no controlled human studies to evaluate its effectiveness in the treatment of eye irritations. Yet it remains in high esteem among Western herbalists for its use as an eyewash to soothe burning or tired eyes. Eyebright has cooling and detoxifying properties that make it especially useful for inflammations, especially of the eyes and sinuses, notes Michael Tierra, CA, ND, author of The Way of Herbs (Pocket Books).

According to Mark Pedersen in Nutritional Herbology, A Reference Guide to Herbs (Wendell Whitman CO), eyebright’s medicinal properties include antibacterial (due to the volatile oils) and astringent (due to the tannins) with a possible hepatonic (liver toning) action, he explains. “Eyebright is a blood purifier that enhances liver function,” notes Pedersen. “Chinese philosophy gives every part of the universe an opposite. The liver is the internal organ that matches the eye as an external organ of the body. Therefore, according to Chinese medicine, any herb that strengthens the liver must also strengthen the eye.”

Bilberry Fruit 5:1 Extract (from Vaccinium myrtillus).  The applicable parts of bilberry are the fruit and leaf. Astringent tannin components of bilberry dried, ripe fruit are responsible for the potential benefits in diarrhea and irritation of the mouth and throat mucosa. Anthocyanadin (anthocyanoside) constituents increase the synthesis of glycosaminoglycans, decrease vascular permeability, reduce basement membrane thickness, and aid in the redistribution of microvascular blood flow and the formation of interstitial fluid. An anthocyanadin pigment found in bilberry fruit might have anti-ulcer and gastroprotective effects. (12) Preliminary evidence indicates these constituents are widely distributed in the body after oral administration and are eliminated by the kidneys. (13) Laboratory research also suggests that anthocyanadins have anti-inflammatory and anti-edema effects. (14)

Bilberry leaves contain polyphenols, tannins, flavonoids and a relatively high concentration of chromium (9.0 ppm). (15, 16). Preliminary evidence suggests that a bilberry leaf extract might have blood glucose, triglyceride, and cholesterol lowering effects. The chromium in bilberry leaf is theorized to play a role in potential blood glucose lowering activity. Bilberry leaf also contains a glucokinin, neomirtilline that seems to lower blood glucose. Some researchers think that flavonoids in bilberry leaf might also be useful for diabetic circulatory disorders. (16, 17)

L-Taurine.  The amino acid found naturally in egg whites, meat, fish, and milk. High concentrations are found in the heart muscle, white blood cells, skeletal muscle, and central nervous system. In the retina there are two binding proteins specific to taurine. Intracellular concentrations are higher in the retina than in any other region derived from the central nervous system. Taurine helps to protect the cell membranes from oxidative attack, helps transport nutrients across cell membranes, and acts as a catalyst to retinal cells that remove cellular debris and assists in the elimination of potentially toxic substances.

Taurine plays a role in the process of rhodopsin regeneration necessary for night vision. It is essential to the retinal pigment epithelium and the photoreceptors where it is found at levels ten times higher than other amino acids. Taurine a non-essential Sulfurous Amino Acid, also protects the rod outer segment lipids during exposure to cyclic light, protect the eyes from UV light and helps strengthen the retinal cells. It functions independently within the body (i.e. it is not incorporated into Proteins). It is manufactured endogenously within the Liver from Cysteine and Methionine.

Several studies have shown definite correlations between taurine deficiency and retinal degenerations. Taurine deficiency is often associated with an imbalance of intestinal flora, commonly called “leakygut” and inhibits taurine absorption. Taurine levels can also be lowered by overgrowth of candida, physical or emotional stress, and excessive consumption of alcohol. The drugs like tranquilizers and anti- inflammatory agents also inhibit the uptake of taurine and have been known to cause retinal damage with prolonged or excessive dosage. Taurine is a crucial amino acid for the brain as it helps generate nerve impulses.

Taurine is found in high concentrations in the eye and is the most plentiful amino acid in the retina of all animal species. Taurine has multiple functions to maintain normal retinal structure and function. Decreased taurine levels in the eyes are linked to the disease retinitis pigmentosa. Depletion of taurine leads to degeneration of the photoreceptor cells. Taurine may help to prevent and reverse Age-Related Macular Degeneration (ARMD). Taurine concentrates in the Macula of the Retina, where it exerts Antioxidant effects that may counteract ARMD. Taurine may help to prevent (and may also possibly reverse) Cataracts by inhibiting the glycosylation process in the Lens of the Eye that is an underlying cause of Cataracts. Taurine may alleviate the Eye Fatigue caused from working with Visual Display Terminals. Taurine concentrates in the Macula. Retinitis Pigmentosa may occur as a result of Taurine deficiency.

Taurine may help to prevent (diabetic) retinopathy. Taurine enhances the function of the Rods and Cones of the Retina, making it essential for optimal sight. Taurine deficiency can cause degeneration of the Retina. (18)

Lutein and Zeaxanthin.  Lutein is a carotenoid that is typically found in combination with its stereoisomer, zeaxanthin. Lutein makes up about 11% of the total carotenoids in serum and about 20% of the carotenoids in adipose tissue. Serum and adipose tissue levels are affected by dietary intake. Lutein levels in breast adipose tissue seem to be affected by diet, which could explain the lower incidence of breast cancer with increased fruit and vegetable intake. Additionally, there is some evidence of an inverse association between serum lutein levels and breast cancer risk. (19) Lutein and zeaxanthin are the two major carotenoid pigments in the human macula and retina. (20, 21) They are thought to function as antioxidants and as blue light filters, protecting underlying ocular tissues from photodamage.

Epidemiological evidence has associated high dietary lutein intake with reduced risk of developing age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and cataracts. (22-25) Increasing dietary lutein intake increases serum lutein levels and macular pigment density. (26,27) Low dietary lutein intake is associated with males, smokers, and people who drink alcohol (more than 2 drinks per week); while higher dietary lutein intake is associated with females, increasing age, and people with hypertension. (28) Foods containing high concentrations of lutein such as broccoli, spinach, and kale, are associated with the greatest eye health benefits. (24, 29) Other carotenoids and antioxidants such as vitamin A, lycopene, alpha- or beta-carotene, vitamin C, and vitamin E have not been associated with this benefit. (24, 29, 28, 30, 31) Epidemiologic studies have shown that carotenoids might be inversely associated with cancer. (32, 33)

There are epidemiological studies that suggest a reduced risk of developing severe cataracts that require surgical removal in people consuming higher amounts of lutein in their diet. (24, 29, 34) It is not known if supplemental lutein offers the same benefit. There is epidemiological evidence that suggests a reduced risk of developing colon cancer in people consuming higher amounts of lutein in their diet. (35) It is not known if supplemental lutein offers the same benefit.

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD): Taking zinc orally in combination with antioxidant vitamins might slow the progression of advanced age-related macular degeneration. Elemental zinc 80 mg plus vitamin C 500 mg, vitamin E 400 IU, and beta-carotene 15 mg daily seems to provide a risk reduction of 27% for visual acuity loss and a risk reduction of 24% for progression of AMD in patients with advanced AMD. (36) Patients with monocular or binocular intermediate AMD or monocular advanced AMD are at high risk for advanced AMD. Theoretically, these patients may also benefit from zinc and antioxidant supplementation. (37) There isn’t enough information to determine if zinc plus antioxidants is beneficial for people with less advanced macular disease or for preventing AMD. (36, 38, 39). However, dietary zinc or zinc supplementation alone does not seem to reduce the risk of developing of AMD. (40,41,42) There is some epidemiological evidence that people who consume higher amounts of lutein in their diet have a reduced risk of developing AMD. (22, 43) Preliminary clinical research suggests that taking lutein supplements 10 mg per day for 12 months can improve some symptoms of AMD such as macular pigment optical density and glare recovery, near vision acuity, and contrast sensitivity. But lutein supplements don’t seem to affect the progression of AMD. It’s not known whether lutein supplements can decrease the risk of AMD as effectively as dietary lutein. (44)

Retinopathy:  Taking bilberry fruit orally seems to improve retinal lesions from diabetic or hypertensive retinopathy. (45,46) Clinical studies of bilberry’s effectiveness have used formulations containing 25% of the bioflavonoid complex anthocyanoside.

Retinitis pigmentosa:  Preliminary clinical evidence suggests that oral lutein might be helpful in the treatment of retinitis pigmentosa. (47)

Antioxidant levels:  Lutein and zeaxanthin help to support and maintain healthy antioxidant levels.

Visual acuity:  Zinc, eyebright, bilberry, lutein and zeaxanthin all help to support visual acuity (sharpness) and general eye health.

Seasonal allergies:  Eyebright may help to relieve the symptoms of seasonal allergies by acting as an anti-inflammatory and stabilizing the mast cells in the lining of the nasal passages.

Photodamage:  Lutein and zeaxanthin help to protect underlying ocular tissues from photodamage.

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