Keeping balance to protect your eyes
In Ayurveda medicine, the changing seasons strongly affect the balance of three factors in the body (dosha) including Vata, Pitta and Kapha. When Vata increases due to cold, moist air, the eyes are prone to dryness, twitching and fatigue. Excess Pitta due to potential moisture and heat causes red, inflamed, and burning eyes.
Maintaining a balance of these factors is key to preventing infections and maintaining good vision, says Dr. Neha Metrey, an ophthalmologist at New Delhi Eye Hospital.
Some Ayurveda methods to help take care of your eyes effectively:
Netra tarpana: Apply ghee or medicine to the eyes to moisturize, reduce dryness, support people with dry eye syndrome.
Anjana: Use herbal eye topics like Sauveuranjana to clean up and reduce inflammation.
Nasya: Apply herbal oil to your nose to nourish your senses.
Padabhyanga: Massage your legs with oil or ghee to help relax and support your vision.
Wash your eyes with cool water: Helps reduce burning heat and irritation, but avoid washing them immediately after eating.
Eat, drink and live well when the season changes
According to Ayurveda, a reasonable diet and lifestyle will help keep your eyes healthy as the weather changes:
Eat light, warm, easy-to-eat; add trikatu (dried ginger, black pepper, longan) to stimulate digestion.
Prioritize the bitter, fishy, and slightly spicy taste; use ghee in moderation to keep it moist.
Drink Takra (spices-mixed avocado) after meals to be good for digestion.
Avoid eye contact with strong winds or rain; sleep on time.
Keep your body dry, avoid prolonged humidity.
Some eye-healthy herbs recommended by Dr. Metrey:
Triphala: Drinking or washing your eyes helps clean and brighten your eyes.
Haritaki: Support detoxification, balance Vata.
Amalaki: Rich in vitamin C, nourishes eyesight.
Yashtimadhu (ards): Reduces burning heat, soothes the eyes.
Things to avoid
To limit the risk of eye infections, Dr. Metrey recommends:
Do not eat greasy, indigestible, or fermented foods.
Limit unsanitary leafy greens during this time.
Avoid cold air blowing directly into the eyes.
Not getting too much napping.
Reduce continuous screen time; take regular breaks.
According to Ayurveda, eye care during the changing seasons is not only about avoiding harmful agents but also about nurturing them from within with diet, herbs and traditional therapies. When applied properly, we can prevent infections and keep our eyes bright and healthy for a long time, Dr. Metrey emphasized.
