Use of extracts of capraria biflora in the prevention and/or treatment of senile cataracts

Abstract

The invention provides methods for treating and/or preventing the recurrence of a senile cataract, and/or for inhibiting the development of a senile cataract and/or an incipient senile cataract, in a human or animal subject. The invention further provides nutraceutical compositions suited for the same, derived from an extract of the plant Capraria biflora. The compositions comprise the extract in a therapeutically sufficient amount for the treatment and/or prophylaxis of a senile cataract in a human and/or animal subject.

1 . A method for inhibiting or preventing the development of a senile cataract or inhibiting the progression of a senile cataract or an incipient senile cataract in a subject, the method comprising the step of administering to a subject in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount of an extract of  Capraria biflora,  together with one or more therapeutically acceptable additives. 
     
     
         2 . A method in accordance with  claim 1  wherein said extract is an aqueous extract and is prepared from at least one organ of said  Capraria biflora  selected from the group consisting of the leaves, stems, stalks, twigs, flowers, roots and seeds. 
     
     
         3 . A method in accordance with  claim 2  wherein said extract is prepared from the leaves of said  Capraria biflora.    
     
     
         4 . A method in accordance with  claim 1  wherein said extract is administered topically, systemically or intraocularly. 
     
     
         5 . A method in accordance with  claim 4  wherein said extract is administered topically to an afflicted eye of the subject in the form of liquid eye drops. 
     
     
         6 . A method in accordance with  claim 5  wherein said subject is a human being and said extract is administered in an amount comprising substantially 0.15 ml daily, for a period of four to six weeks. 
     
     
         7 . A method in accordance with  claim 6  wherein said extract is an aqueous extract prepared from at least one organ of said  Capraria biflora  selected from the group consisting of the leaves, stems, stalks, twigs, flowers, roots and seeds.