Everyday our eyes are constantly exposed to many external stimuli such as harsh lights, prolonged exposure to TV and electronic gadgets screens, pollutants in the air etc. These external stimuli significantly affect our eyes by causing eye fatigue. Additionally, you might also develop eye problems due to a few pathologic factors such as some glaucoma, diabetes retinopathy, metabolic disorders, etc., and physiological changes such as age-related wear, (physiologic macular degeneration). Lifestyle factors such as improper diet and sleeping habits also affect eye health.

Some of the common eye problems include:

  • Eye strain (eye fatigue)Vision problem ( myopia or nearsightedness, hyperopia or farsightedness, and astigmatism)
  • Glaucoma
  • Cataract
  • Blurred vision
  • Eye infections 
  • Blindness

It is important to understand that eye problems are preventable with proper protective measures such as eye exercises, appropriate glasses that reduce or filter the harmful blue light from the screens, and routine eye check ups. In Ayurveda, the eye problems are termed as 'drishti dosha' and are considered to be caused as a result of metabolic and bowel problems, congestion, and nervous debility. The Ayurvedic practice recommends specific dietary and lifestyle modifications along with some routine eye care measures to prevent eye problems and failing vision. 

Read further to know some ‘Ayurveda Approved Tips and Remedies for a better Eyecare’

  • Practice eye exercises such as Trataka
  • Wash your eyes with cool water. 
  • Avoid pouring too hot or too cold water over your head or to wash your eyes
  • Apply home-made pasted - Mix equal quantities of ayurvedic ghee, Triphala powder, and honey and apply for the eyes at night
  • Include Vitamin A and Vitamin C rich sources such as carrot, orange, Amla (Indian Gooseberry) in your diet. Vitamin C rich sources help maintain healthy retinal cells and blood circulation to the eyes. Amla also prevents diabetic retinopathy
  • Include raisins in your diet - raisins help correcting the metabolic disorders
  • Replace the regular salt with rock salt
  • Practice ‘eye palming’ - Rub both your palms vigorously until heat is generated and press the heated
  • Cool or soothe your eyes with sliced cucumber, rose water, or herbal tea bags
  • Get frequent oil massages on the head and face
  • Practice nasya (infiltration of ayurvedic medicines through nostrils)
  • Practice Yoga, meditation, and healthy sleep hygiene

A Word of Caution - Your eyes are the connection between you and the world. A good eye care is of paramount importance to prevent eye fatigue and failing vision. Ayurveda recommends some easy yet effective natural ways to care and protect your eye. It is advisable to consult an Ayurveda practitioner before starting any of the natural eye care remedies. The experts will assess your condition and also recommend the correct way to use the medicinal herbs or products and guide you on how to include eye-healthy foods in your diet and the proper way to consume them. They will also guide you with the proper technique for Trataka and the Yoga asanas that are most effective for good eye health.

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