The best Ayurvedic herbs for dry eyes work by reducing inflammation, which in turn enhances tear production. In Ayurveda, dry eyes are seen as an imbalance of Vata in the eyes, coupled with a lack of nourishment to the eye tissues. The issue of Dry Eye Syndrome is becoming widespread, mainly because our routines have shifted from physical activities to tasks that heavily involve eye use.
According to Ayurveda, our bodies are controlled by three energies, known as doshas: vata, pitta, and kapha. These doshas are influenced by the elements of earth, water, air, ether, and fire, and we all have a unique combination of these forces within us. If you’re unsure about your dominant dosha, taking an Ayurvedic Body Type quiz can be a fun way to find out.
In Ayurveda, the eyes fall under the Pitta dosha. Dry and itchy eyes might indicate an imbalance in your vata. Dryness in any part of the body is usually related to vata issues. When vata is aggravated, it can cause the pitta to create a rough and burning sensation in the eyes, known as Shushkakshipaka.
Symptoms of insufficient moisture in the eyes can include discomfort and irritation, which affect a large portion of computer users and elderly individuals. Ayurvedic herbs that help combat dry eyes are rich in antioxidants. Extended screen time reduces our blink rate by 60%, preventing oily tears from properly lubricating and nourishing the eyes. Added stress or lack of sleep can also weaken the immune system, contributing to dry eyes. Sometimes, the problem can be traced to an imbalance in the tear-flow system or environmental factors like air conditioners and heaters that dry out your tear film.
There are various treatments for dry eyes, but Ayurvedic remedies are entirely natural, effective, and without side effects. Instead of resorting to chemical treatments or surgery, exploring Ayurvedic home remedies may be more beneficial. These remedies are all-natural.
Consider incorporating these Ayurvedic herbs into your diet or using them in compress applications. Cardamom, traditionally used in eye health therapies, improves vision by enhancing blood circulation to the eyes. Rich in riboflavin, cardamom helps prevent age-related vision loss by reducing oxidative stress. It forms connective tissues in the eyes, maintaining corneal health and preventing cataracts.
To enhance your vision, try chewing the seeds from one pod of black cardamom mixed with a tablespoon of honey daily. Historically, Traditional Ayurvedic Medicine practitioners made a washout with licorice root, turmeric root, haritaki fruit, and Himalayan cedarwood, mixed with goat’s milk, to treat dry eyes. Licorice tea, known for its antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties, can be consumed regularly to prevent dry eyes.
Triphala, an Ayurvedic blend of three fruits—Amla, Haritaki, and Bibhitaki—is another effective herb for dry eyes due to its antioxidant content. It helps combat oxidative stress in the eyes and can address minor eye issues. A Triphala eyewash before bedtime promotes rest and relaxation, improving eye health.
Netra Tarpana, a traditional Ayurvedic eye treatment, involves nourishing the eyes with warm medicated ghee. This therapy uses ghee to cover the eyes, enhancing natural lubrication. Typically, one to three sessions are needed to restore a healthy flow of oils into the eyes. Ayurvedic spas often use whole-wheat dough to create a dam for the ghee.
Triphala Ghrita, a form of herbal ghee, can be consumed with water or warm milk and helps relieve itchy eyes. It’s also used externally in eye treatments like Tarpana. During therapy, eyes are immersed in a warmed ghee mixture for therapeutic benefits.
Eyebright, an herb long used in herbal medicine, contains tannins with anti-inflammatory properties. It’s used in eyewashes and eye drops to alleviate redness and inflammation associated with dry eyes. Similarly, turmeric, known for its health benefits, can be blended into a drink with almond milk, cinnamon, black pepper, cloves, and honey for daily use against dry eyes.
Alongside using these herbs, it’s crucial to identify and avoid situations that trigger dry eyes. From dietary adjustments to warm eye compresses, there are various ways to soothe your eyes naturally. Ignoring dry eye symptoms can lead to more severe issues, so it’s important to address them promptly.
