Dry eyes is a very common condition that occurs when the body does not produce enough tears to keep the eyes lubricated. This can be due to a variety of factors, including age, medications, and certain medical conditions. Dry eyes can cause a number of symptoms, including redness, itching, burning, and pain. In severe cases, it can also lead to ulcers or corneal damage.

Dry eyes can be a annoying and painful condition, but fortunately it is treatable. Ayurveda offers an effective and permanent treatment to soothe dry and itchy eyes, improve vision and relieve the symptoms of dry eye syndrome. Dry eyes treatment in Ayurveda involves herbs, oiling therapy, diet and lifestyle changes.

What is Dry Eyes Syndrome?

Dry eyes syndrome is an eye disorder in which there is insufficient tear production or the quality of tears produced is poor. Chronic dry eye disease can damage the tear film and risk your vision.

People with dry eyes often experience symptoms such as dry itchy eyes, watery eyes, and even blurred vision.

Stages of Dry Eyes

There are three main stages of dry eyes: the early stage, the moderate stage, and the severe stage.

• The early stage is characterized by dryness and irritation that is intermittent and usually not too severe. This is often caused by environmental factors such as wind, dust, or dry air.
• The moderate stage involves dryness and irritation that is more constant and often severe. This is often caused by medical conditions such as dry eye syndrome, blepharitis, or meibomian gland dysfunction.
• The severe stage involves chronic dry eye with painful degenration and vision problems. This is often caused by medical conditions such as Sjogren’s syndrome or Stevens-Johnson syndrome.

If you are experiencing dryness and irritation of the eyes, it is important to see an eye doctor to determine the cause and to find the best treatment options.

Symptoms of Dry Eyes Syndrome

The most common symptom of dry eyes is itchiness and redness. Other symptoms include:

• Watery and itchy eyes
• Redness
• Sensitivity to light
• Difficulty wearing contact lenses
• Blurred vision
• Headache and thick secretions
• Pain or foreign body sensation in the eyes

Complications and Health Risks of Dry Eyes

It is important to take action before it is too late. When dry eyes are neglected for a long time, they become chronic. They can cause a number of complications, including:

– Itchy eyes

– Dry Eyes Syndrome

– Eye inflammation as in Conjunctivitis

– Corneal ulcers

– Vision problems

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of dry eyes, it is important to see an ophthalmologist or optometrist. They can diagnose the condition and recommend treatment.

Causes of Dry Itchy Eyes

The synthesis of tears is important for eye health. Tears provide moisture and lubrication to the eyes.

This is done by the goblet cells, lachrymal gland, and meibomian glands working together. When something goes wrong and these cells do not work correctly, it can affect tear production, alter the tear film and cause eye inflammation.

There are many factors involving poor nutrition, environmental factors and faulty lifestyle that can cause dry eyes:

• Exposure to wind or dry air such as in air conditioned rooms or excessively hot temperatures
• Staring at a computer screen for long periods of time
• Certain autoimmune disorders and metabolic diseases such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, thyroid problems, or lupus
• Medications such as antihistamines, beta blockers, or antidepressants
• Age-related changes in tear production
• Mental stress and anxiety
• Eye Allergies
• Environmental dust or chemicals
• Insufficient sleep
• Seasonal allergies as hay fever

Risk factors for dry eyes include:

– Aging

– Gender (women are more likely to have dry eyes than men)

– Medications (anticholinergics, antihistamines, beta blockers, diuretics)

– Medical conditions (Sjögren’s syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, lupus)

– Exposure to wind, smoke, or dry air

– LASIK surgery

Dry Eyes Treatment in Ayurveda

In Ayurveda, dry eye syndrome is considered to be an imbalance of Vata and Pitta doshas. Dry eyes syndrome can be compared with “Shushkakshipaka”, an eye condition that is characterized by excessive dryness or “Rukshata”.

Severe cases of chronic dry eyes are termed as Abhishyanda or Akshipaka, meaning eye condition that causes immense eye pain and affects all parts of the eyes.

Ayurvedic treatment for dry eyes help to activate the glands so that they can secrete the right amount of fluid and keep your eyes healthy. The treatments help to rejuvenate your eyes, improve vision and restore the natural mechanism of tear secretion.

Netra Basti Ayurvedic Treatment

Netra Basti or Netra Tarpana is an Ayurvedic treatment for eye disorders. It involves placing a small cup filled with medicated ghee over the eye and allowing the ghee and herbs to soak in for a period of time. This helps to lubricate the eye and reduce inflammation

Netra Tarpana cools, lubricates, and revitalizes the eyes. This treatment improves inner vision by cleaning even the smallest channels associated with inner and outer perception. It helps bring back clarity to the eyes as impurities are expelled and ailments are corrected.

Netra Tarpana is especially beneficial for people who have long hours of work in front of computers, which can trigger and aggravate dry eyes syndrome. It also helps correct the early formations of cataracts, insomnia, glaucoma, and conjunctivitis.

Ayurvedic Herbs and Medicines for Dry Eyes Treatment

There are a number of Ayurvedic herbs and medicines that can be used to treat dry eyes syndrome. Some of the most effective ones include:

1. Amalaki: Amalaki is an excellent herb for treating dry eyes. It is rich in Vitamin C and other antioxidants which help to nourish and revitalize the eye tissues.

2. Haritaki: Haritaki is another useful herb for treating dry eyes. It helps to cleanse the blood and eliminates toxins from the body. It also strengthens the eye muscles and improves vision.

3. Brahmi: Brahmi is an effective brain tonic and it also helps to improve vision. It nourishes the nerves and strengthens the eye muscles.

4. Shankhapushpi: Shankhapushpi is an excellent herb for treating dry eyes and improving vision. It helps to nourish the eye tissues and improves blood circulation to the eyes.

5. Jyotishmati: Jyotishmati is an ayurvedic herb that has been used for centuries for the treatment of eye disorders. It helps to soothe the eyes and reduces inflammation.

6. Yashtimadhu: Yashtimadhu is an effective herb for treating dry eyes and improving vision. It helps to moisturize the eye tissues and prevents dryness.

7. Triphala: Triphala is a classical ayurvedic formulation which is very effective for treating dry eyes. It helps to cleanse the system and eliminates toxins from the body. It also strengthens the eye muscles and improves vision.

8. Guduchi: Guduchi is an excellent ayurvedic herb for treating dry eyes. It helps to cleanse the blood and eliminates toxins from the body. It also strengthens the eye muscles and improves vision.

9. Ashwagandha: Ashwagandha is a powerful ayurvedic herb which helps to improve overall health and well-being. It is also very effective for treating dry eyes and improving vision.

Home Remedies to Soothe and Lubricate the Eyes

For early stages of dry eyes that is related to insufficient moisture, home remedies can help to soothe the inflammation and provide relief from pain.

1. Oiling: Pure oils such as sesame oil, almond oil, coconut oil or ghee are natural emollient that can help to soothe and lubricate dry eyes. Simply apply a few drops of the oil to your eye area before bedtime and in the morning.

2. Triphala: Triphala is a traditional ayurvedic herbal remedy that is very effective for treating dry eyes. Simply mix equal parts of triphala powder with water and apply the mixture to your eye area before bedtime and in the morning.

3. Amla: Amla is another traditional ayurvedic herb that is very effective for treating dry eyes. Simply mix equal parts of amla powder with water and apply the mixture to your eye area before bedtime and in the morning.

4. Applying a mixture of castor oil and ghee to the affected eye.

5. Soaking a clean cloth in warm water and applying it as a compress to the eyes.

Ayurvedic Lifestyle Tips to Prevent & Treat Dry Itchy Eyes

Lifestyle changes involving your diet and daily routine are essential practices required to prevent dry eyes and find quick relief even when you are taking medication.

– Avoid extended periods of time spent in front of screens, such as computers, tablets and television. This is an essential change if you are suffering from computer vision syndrome.

– Take regular breaks during prolonged periods of screen time, and make sure to blink frequently.

– Ensure that the air around you is not too dry, by using a humidifier or keeping a bowl of water near your workstation.

– Keeping your eyes lubricated with artificial tears or medicated ghee (clarified butter).

– Taking a healthy diet that includes plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as omega-3 fatty acids found in oily fish, nuts and seeds.

– Taking oral supplements of fish oil or flaxseed oil, which are rich in omega-3 fatty acids.

– Drinking plenty of water throughout the day to keep your body hydrated.

– Avoiding exposure to dust, smoke and other irritants.

Takeaway

In most cases, dry eye can be effectively treated with simple self-care measures. However, if the condition is severe or does not respond to treatment, further medical intervention may be necessary. With proper treatment, dry eye usually resolve within 1-2 weeks. However, some people may experience persistent symptoms. In such cases, it is important to see an expert for further evaluation.

If you suffer from chronic dry eyes condition, it is best to consult with an experienced Ayurvedic doctor to find the best course of treatment for your individual situation. With the help of an expert, you can find the underlying cause of your condition and treat it effectively.

Consult with Medhya’s Ayurvedic Doctor to get your personalised health plan involving prescription for Ayurvedic medicine, diet, yoga and lifestyle guidelines.

FAQ

1. Is ghee good for dry eyes?

According to the principles of Ayurveda, ghee is considered to be one of the most nourishing substances that you can put into your body. Not only is it rich in vitamins and minerals, but it is also full of healthy fats that help to lubricate and nourish the tissues. This makes ghee an excellent choice for those who are seeking to treat dry eyes. When applied directly to the eye, ghee can help to replenish the moisture that has been lost, making the eyes feel more comfortable and allowing them to heal. In addition, ghee has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce irritation and redness. Overall, ghee is an excellent way to treat dry eyes naturally.

2. Can dry eyes be cured in Ayurveda?

Ayurveda is a holistic system of medicine that originates from India. It focuses on treating the whole person rather than just the symptoms of a disease. One of the areas in which Ayurveda excels is the treatment of dry eyes. Ayurvedic doctors use a variety of techniques to treat dry eyes, including herbs, massage, and diet. The goal of treatment is to restore balance to the body and improve overall health. In most cases, these treatments are successful in alleviating dry eyes and improving vision. However, it is important to consult with an experienced Ayurvedic doctor before beginning any new treatment regimen.

3. Which is the best Ayurvedic medicine for eyes?

One of the key principles of Ayurveda is that the mind and body are connected, and that imbalances in one can lead to imbalances in the other. The eyes are said to be the windows of the soul, and they are also an important part of the body’s Ayurvedic constitution, known as the dosha. Imbalances in the dosha can lead to a range of eye problems, from dryness and itchiness to fatigue and blurred vision.

There are a range of Ayurvedic medicines that can help to treat imbalances in the dosha and improve overall eye health. Triphala is an herbal supplement that is often used to treat eye problems, as it is believed to help cleanse and detoxify the blood. Ghee, or clarified butter, is another popular Ayurvedic remedy for eye problems, as it is thought to help lubricate and nourish the eyes. Other common Ayurvedic treatments for eye problems include neti pots, which are used to cleanse the sinuses, and steam inhalation, which can help to soothe irritated eyes

4. Dry Eye Drops to Treat Dry itchy Eyes

As an Ayurvedic doctor, I often get asked about natural treatments for dry, itchy eyes. The first thing I typically recommend is a simple change in diet. Increasing your intake of omega-3 fatty acids can help to improve the quality of your tears and reduce inflammation. Cold-water fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines are all great sources of omega-3s. You can also get omega-3s from flaxseed oil and chia seeds. In addition to dietary changes, using artificial tears or eye drops can help to lubricate the eye and reduce irritation. Look for a product that contains hyaluronic acid, which helps to bind moisture to the surface of the eye. You can also try using a warm compress to soothe dry, itchy eyes. Simply soak a clean washcloth in warm water and apply it to the affected area for a few minutes. Repeat as needed. With some simple lifestyle changes and home remedies, you can find relief from dry, itchy eyes.