As the summer sun shines bright & temperatures rise, our eyes are exposed to various challenges. From harsh UV rays to dry winds, summertime can take a toll on the eye health, leading to discomfort and potential issues if not properly addressed. While contemporary science offers effective solutions, Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, provides natural remedies to alleviate summer eye problems. Let’s delve into some common summer eye woes & Ayurvedic treatments to soothe & protect our precious vision.
- Dry Eyes
Dry Eyes are a prevalent concern during the summer months, exacerbated by increased exposure to air conditioning, fans & dry winds. Ayurveda attributes dry eyes to an imbalance in the Vata Dosha, representing air & space elements in the body.
To combat Dryness:
Ghrita: Applying pure cow ghee around the eyes & instilling two eyedrops in both the eyes, before bedtime can nourish & lubricate dry eyes, providing relief from discomfort.
Triphala eye wash is a potent Ayurvedic remedy. Keep Triphala powder in water overnight, straining it, and using the liquid to rinse your eyes in the morning. This helps cleanse & rejuvenate the eyes while alleviating dryness.
- Eye Allergies
Eye allergies can trigger various symptoms, including itchy, red & water eyes. Ayurveda suggests that allergies result from an accumulation of Pitta Dosha. To pacify Pitta & relieve eye allergies, consider the following Ayurvedic remedies:
To combat Eye allergies:
Compression: Rose water & Yashtimadhu Churna has cooling properties that can soothe irritated eyes. Dip cotton pads in cold water & place them over closed eyelids for a few minutes. This helps reduce inflammation & provides instant relief from itching & redness.
Netra Tarpana involves the usage of plain Cow Ghrita or medicated ghrita. A dough is created around the eyes, leaving space to pour warm, medicated ghee onto the eyes. It nourishes the eye tissues, strengthens vision & alleviates allergic symptoms.
- Sun Damage
Excessive exposure to UV rays can lead to photokeratitis (sunburn of the cornea), cataracts, and other eye conditions. Ayurveda emphasizes the importance of protecting the eyes from the sun’s harmful rays using natural methods:
To combat Sun Damage:
Applying Cooling eye masks made from ingredients like cucumber slices, aloe vera gel, or potato can provide relief from sunburn & reduce inflammation. These ingredients have cooling & anti-inflammatory properties that help to soothe sun-damaged eyes.
Triphala Ghrita can be applied around the eyes as a protective barrier against UV radiation. The antioxidant properties of Triphala help neutralize free radicals, reducing the risk of sun damage to the eyes.
- Conjunctivitis (Pink eye)
Conjunctivitis (Pink eye) is characterized by inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin layer covering the white part of the eye. It can be caused by allergies, bacteria, or viruses, and the symptoms include redness, itching, watering, & discharge. Ayurvedic remedies includes:
To combat Conjunctivitis:
Eyewash with Triphala, Yashtimadhu, Lodhra, Padmaka Churna can help cleanse the eyes & reduce inflammation associated with conjunctivitis. Its antimicrobial properties may also help to combat bacterial & viral infections.
Nimba (Azadirachta indica) is renowned for its anti-microbial & anti-inflammatory properties. Boil Nimba leaves in water, strain the solution, & use it as an eyewash to alleviate symptoms of conjunctivitis & inhibit bacterial growth.
- Computer Vision Syndrome (Digital Eye Strain)
Computer Vision Syndrome (Digital Eye Strain) With increased screen time during summer holidays, many individuals experience digital eye strain characterized by symptoms such as eye fatigue, dryness, blurred vision & headaches. Ayurvedic approaches to manage computer vision syndrome include:
To combat Digital Eye Strain:
Blinking exercises: Frequent blinking to moisten the eyes & prevent dryness. Take regular breaks from screens & practice blinking exercises by consciously blinking your eyes several times in succession.
Palming is a relaxation technique that involves covering closed eyes with warm palms to soothe & rejuvenate tired eyes. Rub your palms together to generate heat & gently place them over closed eyes without applying pressure. Hold for a few minutes while focusing on deep breathing.
- Styes
Styes are painful, red lumps that develop along the edge of the eyelid, usually caused by bacterial infection of the oil glands. Factors like poor hygiene, stress, and hormonal changes can contribute to their occurrence. Ayurvedic remedies for styes include:
To combat Styes:
Turmeric (Curcuma longa) Poultice possesses anti-inflammatory & anti-microbial properties that can help reduce swelling & combat bacterial infection. Make a paste by mixing turmeric powder with warm water & apply it as a poultice over the affected eyelid.
Triphala powder mixed with ghee can be applied topically to the stye to promote healing & prevent recurrence. Its antibacterial properties help eliminate the underlying infection, while ghee provides lubrication & enhances absorption of herbal constituents.
In addition to these Ayurvedic remedies, it’s crucial to maintain overall eye health by staying hydrated, consuming a balanced diet rich in Vitamin A & omega-3 fatty acids & practicing eye exercises & relaxation techniques. As we embrace the joys of summer, let’s prioritize the well-being of our eyes & incorporate these Ayurvedic practices to keep them healthy, vibrant & free from seasonal woes. By incorporating these natural remedies into your summer eye care routine, you can nurture & protect your eyes amidst the seasonal challenges.
