Role of the indigenous drug saptamrita lauha in hemorrhagic retinopathies.

A clinical study was done on 48 eyes to assess the role of an indigenous drug, Saptamrita Lauha, in the absorption of hemorrhages and prevention of their recurrence in retinopathic eyes. Rapid absorption of retinal hemorrhages was observed in both treated groups: diabetic and hypertensive (mean durations, 16 days and 17.83 days, respectively). In three eyes, the hemorrhage cleared completely; partial clearance was observed in the rest of the eyes. Recurrence of a hemorrhagic episode was less in treated eyes (25% in each group) compared with control eyes (60% in diabetic and 50% in hypertensive patients). This study suggests that Saptamrita Lauha may hasten the process of retinal hemorrhage absorption and prevent its recurrence. The beneficial effect could be attributed to the flavanoid-like properties of one of the ingredients of this natural product.