The human eye (Netra) is considered one of the most important sense organs in Ayurveda. Being a vital organ, its care is of utmost importance & plays a key role in enhancing the quality of life. Classical Ayurvedic texts unanimously declare the eye as the most important among all the sense organs.
Cataracts are the leading cause of blindness worldwide in adults. Generally it also develops in older people, but younger people can also get cataracts. Cataract is a common eye condition in which the natural lens of the eye becomes cloudy due to degeneration of the protein in the eye lens Cataract treatment in Ayurveda focuses on improving eye health naturally.
How is Ayurvedic cataract treatment helpful in improving eye health?
In Ayurveda at dr Basu Eye Care Centre, we first analyse the stage of cataract, whether it’s in its immature stage or mature stage, and then, with the help of the right Ayurvedic medication and suggested therapy, aim to prevent cataract formation and slow its progression by improving overall eye health and balancing the body naturally. It emphasizes daily care, natural therapies, and lifestyle correction.
1. Importance of Dinacharya (Daily Routine)
What is your day-to-day routine? Ayurvedic principles for eye health are Dinacharya, which means following a healthy daily routine. Regular eye care habits help keep the eyes clean, nourished, and protected from early damage.
2. Netraprakashlana (Herbal Eye Wash)
This practice involves gently washing the eyes with herbal liquids prepared from herbs such as Amalaki or Lodhra. It removes toxins, soothes irritation, and balances Pitta dosha, which governs vision and body heat.
3. Anjana (Ayurvedic Eye Application)
- Anjana is the application of herbal medicine to the eyes
- It helps remove excess Kapha, which Ayurveda believes contributes to eye cloudiness
- Modern Ayurvedic Anjana preparations support eye nourishment and clarity
- Regular use may help protect the eyes from strain and degeneration
4. Nasya (Nasal Therapy for Eye Health)
- Nasya involves putting medicated oil or drops into the nostrils
- According to Ayurveda, the nose is the pathway to the head and eyes
- Nasya helps improve circulation and nourishment to the eyes
- It supports long-term eye health and helps prevent eye disorders
5. Natural Prevention and Supportive Care
- Ayurveda works on balancing body energies (doshas) rather than only treating symptoms
- Daily practices help strengthen eye function and reduce stress on the eyes
- When followed regularly, these methods may lower the risk of cataract development
Common Cataract Symptoms
1. Blurry or Foggy Vision
One of the earliest signs of a cataract is blurred or cloudy vision. It may feel like you are looking through foggy or dirty glass. Simple tasks like reading small letters, using a mobile or computer, sewing, or reading road signs can become difficult.
2. Trouble Seeing at Night
People with cataracts often find that it is difficult to see clearly in dim light or at night. Places that are already dim may look even darker, making night driving or walking in the dark risky, especially for older people.
3. Sensitivity to Light and Glare
Bright lights such as sunlight, vehicle headlights, or streetlights may start to hurt the eyes or cause discomfort. Glare can make it difficult to drive at night or stay outdoors for long periods.
4. Colors Look Faded or Yellow
Cataracts can cause problems in recognising colours due to losing their brightness. White objects may look yellow or dull, and bright colours may appear washed out. This change happens slowly and is often noticed later.
5. Double Vision in One Eye
Some people may see two images of the same object in one eye. These symptoms can come and go, which makes them harder to notice in the early stages.
6. Frequent Change in Glasses
If you frequently need to change your spectacles, it could be a warning sign of a cataract.
7. Halos Around Lights
You may see ring-like circles or halos around lights, especially at night. This makes night driving uncomfortable and unsafe, as headlights may appear too bright or blinding.
Basic Preventive Principles Of Eye Care In Ayurveda
Ayurveda focuses on the preventive aspect, which is helpful in maintaining healthy eyes throughout life. Classical texts recommend:
- Regular washing of the eyes with clean, cool water
- Avoiding excessive screen time and intense light exposure
- Protect your eyes from dust, smoke, and pollutants
- Maintaining proper sleep and mental calmness
- Regular use of herbal eye tonics and Rasayana herbs
- Anjana (collyrium) and gentle eye exercises are emphasized for maintaining visual strength
Can gut health prevent Cataract formation?
There are many research papers that discuss Ayurvedic Cataract Treatment and gut health. When we don’t take care of our food habits, don’t properly clean our stomachs, and keep ignoring our health for years, waste starts to accumulate in the body. This waste is called ‘Ama’ in Ayurveda, and it creates gas and toxins. Over time, these harmful substances begin to affect the eyes. Some of it leaves the body, but some stays inside and causes trouble.
When digestion weakens, the body’s inner strength declines. The eyes do not get enough energy, warmth, and nourishment. Along with this, overall vitality also goes down. When all these problems come together, they can damage the eyes, leading to cataracts, which are called ‘Timir Rog’ in Ayurveda.
How can Ayurveda help slow down cataracts?
Yes, Cataract Treatment In Ayurveda can help slow down cataract naturally, especially if it is caught early. Cataract does not come on suddenly—it builds slowly over time due to aging, poor digestion, unhealthy eating habits, and the gradual weakening that develops within the body.
Ayurveda views cataract not just as an eye problem, but as a sign that the body is not properly digesting food, that toxins are building up, and that the eyes are not getting enough nourishment. By improving digestion, cleansing the body from within, balancing body energies, and strengthening the eyes with natural herbs and therapies, Ayurveda helps slow the further clouding of the eye lens.
In the early stages, when you only notice slight blurring or glare from lights, Ayurvedic treatment can slow down the cataract and in many cases stop it from getting worse for a long time. Many people can manage well for years without needing surgery. In the moderate stage, when eyesight becomes clearly weak and daily work like reading or recognizing faces becomes difficult, Ayurveda may not remove the cataract completely, but it can delay further damage, reduce discomfort, and help you see better in everyday life.
Daily Habits and Diet for Eye Care
Good daily habits can help slow cataract growth:
Eat Healthy Food: Include fruits, green vegetables, nuts, and foods rich in vitamins. Avoid too much spicy, oily, and fried food.
Amla (Indian Gooseberry): Rich in Vitamin C, it helps protect the eye lens and keeps the eyes strong.
Ghee : Special herbal ghee is used to nourish the eyes. It helps reduce dryness and vision weakness.
Turmeric: Helps protect the eyes and slows further damage.
Protect Your Eyes: Wear sunglasses in bright sunlight and protect eyes from dust and smoke.
Healthy Lifestyle: Avoid smoking and keep sugar and blood pressure under control.
Care for Eyes: Reduce mobile and computer use, take regular breaks, and do simple eye exercises.
Ayurvedic Therapies For Cataract @ Dr Basu
Ayurvedic cataract treatment at Dr Basu’s Eye Care Centre includes therapies to nourish and heal the eyes naturally and prevent your eyes from reaching the stage of mature cataract. In cases related to immature cataracts, with the right medication and lifestyle changes, you can have your cataract completely removed.
- Netra Tarpana: Nourishing therapy using medicated ghee over the eyes
- Anjana: Application of herbal collyrium to cleanse and strengthen the eyes
- Aschyotana: Instillation of medicated eye drops
- Seka: Continuous pouring of medicated liquids over closed eyes
- Nasya: Nasal administration of medicated oils to strengthen sensory organs
Conclusion
At Dr. Basu Eye Care Centre, each patient is carefully evaluated to determine the stage of cataract, and treatment is planned accordingly. When a cataract is in its early stages, with the proper Ayurvedic care from an Ayurvedic doctor, you can slow its progression and support clearer vision naturally. Regular eye tests, preventive measures, and the right Ayurvedic therapies can play an essential role in preserving vision and preventing cataract-related complications.
