The pair of eyes are not only the sensory organs in the human body that enable the sense of sight but are a precious gift for every single person to witness the world around them. Being very delicate parts situated in the orbit within the skull, one each to the left and right side of the face, healthy eyes ensure optimal visual functions and are indispensable for performing literally all activities at home and work. However, apart from microbial infections like conjunctivitis, chronic conditions like cataract, glaucoma, macular degeneration and refractive errors affecting sight such as myopia, presbyopia, a predominant illness plaguing the pair of visual organs are dry eyes. Statistics indicate that dry eyes are encountered by nearly 50 million people worldwide, with the condition being rather prevalent not only in arid, chill winters and parched, hot summers but even in the damp, wet monsoons.

Dry eyes are primarily caused by irregularities in tear secretion. Synthesis of tears is a key component of eye wellness, that is necessary to supply continuous moisture, lubrication to the outer visual organelles of the cornea and mucous membrane i.e. conjunctiva. This is preserved by the goblet cells, lachrymal gland and meibomian glands, that work in synergy to produce a composite substance lining the external eye surface, which is referred to as a tear film. When aberrations arise in this process, insufficient and/or defective tear films form, which leads to dry eyes. In Ayurveda, dry eye syndrome is termed as “Shushkakshipaka” that is characterised by excessive dryness or “Rukshata” and triggered by aggravated Vata and Pitta doshas, induced by consuming junk diets. Furthermore, Dhoomanishevana (contact with smoke), Rajodhumanishevanath (encountering pollution, dust), Doorekshanata (staring at farther objects for lengthy periods with reduced blinking), Swapna Viparyaya (inadequate or troubled sleep) and Anidra (insomnia) are other factors that instigate persistent dry eyes.

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To mend the perturbing instance of dry eyes and maintain the wellbeing of the visual parts, Ayurveda, the time-honoured system of traditional medicine that originated in India thousands of years ago, endows umpteen rejuvenating natural remedies. Besides consuming balanced diets and adhering to proper sleep patterns, numerous enriching herbal therapies are highlighted in the esteemed trio of ancient ayurvedic manuscripts - Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, Ashtanga Hridaya, to restore moisture and uplift eye health. Read on, to discover miraculous cures from Ayurveda for resolving dry eye problems and regain optimal healthy vision.

Spectacular Herbs To Ameliorate Dry Eye Syndrome:

1. Draksha

Draksha or grapes are bestowed with cooling properties, as well as anthocyanin antioxidants, that mitigate irritation in the eyes and bestow moisture. Applying a paste of Draksha with sugar on the eyelids and around the edges of eyes is beneficial in remedying dry eyes.

2. Ghrita

Ghrita, which is pure ghee derived from cow’s milk, is packed with valuable fatty acids and is hence a wonderful natural solution for healing dry eye syndrome. Dabbing on some ghee around the corners of eyelashes and eyelids and keeping it on for a few minutes rectifies dryness in the visual organs.

3. Gotu Kola

Gotu Kola is a powerful herb that functions as a panacea for several health anomalies, including dry eyes. Preparing a dry powder from Gotu kola leaves and delivering it via nostrils i.e. Nasya therapy, cleanses the passages to the eyes and helps revive tear secretion, mending dry eyes.

4. Triphala

A combination of three herbs – amla, bibhitaki and haritaki, Triphala is a potent ayurvedic formulation that is laden with phytonutrients and advantageous antioxidants. Washing the eyes with Triphala solution diluted in cold water helps pacify itching sensation in eyes and combats dry eye syndrome.

5. Chandana

Sandalwood or Chandana is a proven ayurvedic solution not only for healthy skin but also for effectively treating dry eyes. Mixing some sandalwood powder in castor oil and applying a thin layer around the eyelids mollifies irritation and remedies dry eyes.