Evaluating the Antioxidant and Anticataract Effects of Eclipta alba: A Potential Herbal Alternative for Cataract Management

Cataract remains a leading cause of blindness worldwide, predominantly affecting the aging population. Although surgical intervention is effective, it remains costly and inaccessible in many developing regions, underscoring the need for alternative preventive strategies. The present study investigated the antioxidant and anticataract potential of Eclipta alba (L.) Hassk, a medicinal plant widely used in Ayurveda for its Chakshushya (eye-protective) properties. Hydroalcoholic extract of Eclipta alba was prepared by Soxhlet extraction and subjected to preliminary phytochemical screening, which confirmed the presence of phenolics, flavonoids, tannins, and ascorbic acid. In vitro anticataract activity was evaluated using Dgalactose-induced cataract models in rat lenses. The degree of lens opacity was graded and compared with standard Vitamin E treatment. The extract demonstrated a dose-dependent protective effect against galactose-induced opacity, with higher concentrations showing greater restoration of lens transparency. Antioxidant activity was further validated using the DPPH free radical scavenging assay, where the extract exhibited significant radical neutralization comparable to standard ascorbic acid. These findings suggest that Eclipta alba extract, owing to its strong antioxidant potential, may delay cataract progression and serve as a natural therapeutic agent. Further in vivo studies and clinical validations are warranted to establish its pharmacological relevance and safety for ophthalmic use