Can Rhodiola rosea supplementation mitigate digital eye strain? A triple-blinded placebo-controlled study.

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Nutritional Science
• Human Physiology

Background:

• Digital eye strain (DES) is a prevalent issue, particularly among young adults, exacerbated by prolonged visual tasks.
• Understanding the impact of natural supplements on visual function and DES is crucial for developing effective management strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effect of Rhodiola rosea (RR) supplementation on accommodative response dynamics.
• To assess the impact of RR on digital eye strain (DES) symptoms after visual tasks with varying cognitive demands.

Main Methods:

• A placebo-controlled, triple-blind, balanced crossover study involving 18 young adults.
• Participants received either 1200 mg/day of RR or placebo for 4 days.
• Accommodative response (lag and variability) and DES symptoms were measured using an autorefractor and a questionnaire.

Main Results:

• RR supplementation significantly reduced the variability of accommodation at near distances (40 cm and 20 cm).
• A significant reduction was observed in the specific DES symptom of 'Blurred vision when looking into the distance'.
• No significant effects of RR were found on the lag of accommodation or other DES symptoms.

Conclusions:

• Rhodiola rosea supplementation (1200 mg/day for 4 days) can decrease accommodative response variability and alleviate certain digital eye strain symptoms.
• RR shows potential as a preventative or management strategy for digital eye strain.
• Further investigation is warranted to establish clinical relevance, optimal dosage, and timing for RR supplementation in managing DES.