Ayurvedic treatment for Eyes

Introduction:

Although Ayurveda as a system of medicine roughly dates back to the period of the Indus Valley civilization, Ayurvedic ophthalmology has gained wide currency much later. In due course of time Ayurvedic ophthalmology has proved to be highly effective, with practically no side effects. The system gains more significance because it caters not only to identifying and curing eye related diseases, but also has several methods regarding proper care and effective preventive measurements for the eyes. The ancient Ayurvedic texts Sushrut Samhita, Charak Samhita etc elaborates on details pertaining to Shalakya Tantra [ailments above the neck]. These ancient texts describe the etiology, diagnosis, prevention and treatment of diseases that affect the organs above the neck. The following table is worthy taking note of:

  • Organs affected
  • Eyes
  • Ears
  • Nose
  • Throat
  • Varieties of ailments in percentage
  • 70-75
  • 20-25
  • 15-18
  • 10-12

The ayurvedic center kerala prescribes remedies and follow-up treatment so as to ensure the total elimination of the disease. Therefore, it proves to be one of the most effective methods of treating the ailments related to the upper portion of the body, especially those affecting the organs above the neck. The ancient texts refers to special treatment procedures like Nasyam, Dhoomapanam, Gandoosham, Shirodhara, Shirovasthi, etc

Common eye ailments:

Some of the most commonly reported diseases or disorders of the eyes include: • Conjunctivitis, • recurrent stye, • degenerative eye diseases like Retinitis pigmentosa (RP), • macular degeneration, • diabetic retinopathy, • optic atrophy, • computer-related disorders like Dry Eye (computer vision syndrome), • glaucoma, • allergic conditions like central serous retinopathy and • short-sight, • long-sight, • astigmatism,etc.

Ayurveda Treatment:

The treatment includes internal medication, several therapies, etc depending on the nature of the symptoms, condition of the body and the affected organ, age of the patient, and several other factors. Almost all these Ayurveda therapies require complete rest and residential stay in the hospital during the period of the treatment. However in the case of systemic diseases like diabetes, hypertension, etc, where care has to be provided to avoid complications in the eyes, proper follow up and preventive therapies ensure preservation of vision.

Ayurvedic treatment for eyes, often involving practices like Netra Tarpana and Netra Basti, focuses on maintaining and improving ocular health. Remarkably, Ayurvedic principles extend to address various health conditions such as Rheumatoid arthritis, back pain, arthritis, and eczema. And, at our healing center, we provide ayurvedic treatment for eczema, ayurvedic treatment for back pain, ayurvedic treatment for rheumatoid arthritis, ayurvedic treatment for psoriasis, and more. Ayurvedic treatments not only contribute to pain management but also promote overall well-being, including the maintenance of healthy eyes, reflecting the holistic nature of this ancient healing system. Panchakarma treatment, a detoxification process in Ayurveda, can also complement these treatments by helping the body eliminate toxins and enhance its ability to heal and regenerate.

In the ancient medical practice of Ayurveda, eye care holds a significant place. Ayurveda believes that imbalances in Pitta dosha can lead to various eye conditions. To maintain optimal eye health, Ayurveda emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach, incorporating diet, lifestyle changes, Ayurvedic treatments, and therapies. Let’s delve into the Ayurvedic approach to eye care and explore some of the treatments and therapies for common eye conditions.

Ayurvedic Tips for Healthy Eyes

  1. Eat a Balanced Diet: Include foods that are rich in vitamins A, C, and E such as carrots, spinach, oranges, and almonds. All these nutrients play a crucial role in maintaining good eye health.
  2. Practice eye exercises: Regularly perform eye exercises to strengthen the muscles around your eyes and improve blood circulation. This can help reduce eye strain and prevent conditions like dryness and fatigue.
  3. Follow proper eye hygiene: Wash your eyes with clean water regularly to keep them free from dust and allergens. Please take care to avoid rubbing of eyes, it may lead to irritation and damage.
  4. Use Ayurvedic eye drops: Ayurvedic eye drops made from natural ingredients like rose water or Triphala can help soothe tired and dry eyes. These drops can also provide relief from redness and inflammation.
  5. Take breaks during screen time: If you spend long hours in front of a computer or other digital devices, make sure to take regular breaks to rest your eyes. Divert your attention from the screen of a laptop/mobile phone every 20 minutes to focus on something in the distance for at least 20 seconds.

Ayurveda Treatment for eyes: An overview

Ayurveda, an ancient Indian system of medicine, offers a holistic approach to maintaining and improving eye health.

Ayurveda treats the root cause of eye problems rather than just addressing the symptoms. It recognizes that imbalances in the body can manifest as eye issues and aims to restore balance through personalized treatments. This approach not only provides relief from immediate discomfort but also helps prevent future problems.

Ayurveda uses natural ingredients and techniques to promote healing and rejuvenation. Ayurvedic eye drops made from herbs like Triphala or rose water are soothing and do not have any harsh side effects. Hence Ayurveda treatment for eyes are admissible to people of all age groups, including children and elderly.

Ayurvedic practitioners at Ayurveda Healing Ashram take a personalized approach to eye care. They consider an individual’s unique constitution (dosha) and specific concerns before recommending treatments or remedies. This customized approach ensures that each person receives tailored care that addresses their specific needs.

Ayurvedic therapies for Myopia

Kriyakalpa involves herbal eyewashes and eye drops to reduce inflammation and improve vision. Various Treatments under Kriyakalpa include:

Tarpana: This treatment involves filling the eyes with medicated ghee and allowing it to stay for a specific period of time. It helps in nourishing and lubricating the eyes, improving vision, and reducing dryness.

Seka: This treatment involves pouring herbal decoctions over the eyes. It helps in cleansing the eyes, reducing redness and itching, and providing relief from eye strain.

Anjana: Anjana refers to applying medicinal powders or pastes on the inner surface of the lower eyelid. It can be beneficial in treating various eye disorders like conjunctivitis, cataracts, glaucoma, etc.

Aschyotana: Aschyotana involves instilling herbal extracts or juices into the eyes using a dropper or by pouring it directly into the eyes. It can aid in rejuvenating-tired eyes, improving vision clarity, and preventing eye diseases.

Nasya, a nasal medication, helps in reducing eye strain and improving overall eye health.

Shirodhara, a gentle pouring of medicated oil on the forehead, helps calm the mind and alleviate eye fatigue.

Trataka, a practice in Ayurveda, involves gazing at a lighted lamp with herbal ghee at eye level. This ancient technique not only has a soothing effect on the mind but also offers numerous benefits for eye health. The use of herbal ghee during trataka is believed to have therapeutic properties that nourish and rejuvenate the eyes. It helps reduce eye strain and fatigue caused by excessive screen time or prolonged reading. The herbal ghee also acts as a lubricant for the eyes, preventing dryness and improving overall eye comfort.

The benefits of Ayurvedic Trataka include improving eye strength, reducing eye strain, enhancing focus, and promoting a sense of clarity of eyes.

Ayurvedic Treatment for Glaucoma

Increased pressure within the eye leads to Glaucoma.It is a serious eye condition. Ayurveda offers effective treatments to manage and prevent further progression of glaucoma. Along with medication, Ayurvedic Trataka, a meditation technique involving focused gazing, can help regulate intraocular pressure.

Nasya is a traditional Ayurvedic therapy that involves the administration of herbal oils or powders through the nasal passage. When it comes to eye treatment, Nasya has been found to be highly effective in improving various eye conditions.  The herbal oils used in Nasya have cooling and calming properties that help to relax the eye muscles and reduce tension. They also have soothing properties that help to reduce dryness, irritation, and inflammation in the eyes.

Ayurveda provides valuable tips to reduce eye strain and combat dryness. Simulating the blink reflex by consciously blinking more often can alleviate dryness. Additionally, maintaining adequate hydration and incorporating cooling foods like cucumber and aloe vera in the diet can help soothe the eyes.

Netra Basthi, a specialized Ayurvedic treatment, involves placing a dough dam around the eyes and pooling medicated ghee within it. This treatment rejuvenates the eyes, promoting moisture and relieving dryness.

The medicated  ghee is allowed to stay in contact with the eyes for a specific period of time, which helps to nourish and strengthen the eye tissues. Netra Basti can be beneficial for individuals with glaucoma as it helps to improve blood circulation to the eyes and reduce intraocular pressure.

Ayurvedic treatment for glaucoma aims at balancing the doshas in the body through various therapies, dietary changes, and lifestyle modifications. This holistic approach can help manage symptoms of glaucoma and slow down its progression.

In conclusion, Ayurvedic eye treatment in Kerala,India offers a holistic approach to maintaining and improving eye health. Through the use of natural remedies, such as herbal formulations and lifestyle modifications, Ayurveda aims to balance the doshas and promote overall well-being. By addressing underlying imbalances and providing nourishment to the eyes, this ancient practice can help alleviate various eye conditions including dryness, redness, strain, and even certain vision disorders. Ayurvedic hospitals in Kerala are the most wanted as they adhere to ancient and traditional Ayurveda principles for the long lasting results.

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