Dry eyes are a common yet problematic condition that may interfere with daily living. Ayurveda provides an effective and lasting cure for this disease that is distinct from current medicine. The course of therapy consists of numerous natural treatments, herbal combinations, and a few alterations to one’s lifestyle. It is a comprehensive approach that has been adopted and praised by tens of thousands of people throughout the globe.

What are Dry Eyes?

A dry eye is a disorder caused by a deficiency of moisture inside the eyes. The disorder is caused by decreased tear production or diminished tear quality. The altered ratio of salt to water in tears alters the tear’s chemical makeup. Occasionally, the obstruction of the meibomian gland may also cause this issue.

Causes of Dry Eyes

Doctors define a number of reasons responsible for this condition: 

• Ageing
• The increased stress of work and anxiety
• Lack of sleep
• Prolonged exposure to dusty climate
• Too much exposure to air-conditioned or heated environments.
• Long use of contact lenses without gap
• Eye allergy
• Mental stress and pressures
• Exposure to harmful chemicals
• The habit of smoking after cataract or LASIK surgery

Apart from these reasons, doctors also state that dry eyes result from metabolic disorders, allergic reactions, and several autoimmune diseases. Syndromes like the Sjogren syndrome and the Steven Johnson syndrome also result in dry eyes. 

Symptoms of Dry Eyes Disease

The major symptoms related to dry eyes include high sensitivity to light, blurry vision, constant headaches, redness, pain, watering, and a foreign body sensation.

Complications and Risk Factors Related To Dry Eyes

When neglected over an extended period of time, dry eyes progress to a chronic level. It is advised to seek therapy prior to this stage. A variety of issues may develop from dry eyes, including:

• Corneal Ulcer: The cornea is the outermost layer of protection for the eyes. Due to its link with the tear duct near the end of the eye, this layer is both transparent and wet. When tear ducts cease producing sufficient moisture for the cornea, the cornea is damaged at various locations, resulting in the development of ulcers.
• Conjunctivitis: Untreated dry eyes may also cause inflammation and irritation of the conjunctiva, the translucent membrane that protects the white portion of the eye. This results in redness, tearing, inflammation, irritation, and persistent itching in the eyes, which together constitute conjunctivitis.
• Problems with writing, reading, and maintaining eye contact.
• Occasionally, anxiety, stress, and sadness.

Ayurvedic Treatment for Dry Eyes

Several Ayurvedic remedies may help manage dry eye. Some of these remedies include:

Herbal Remedies:

Ayurveda uses a range of herbs to treat various health conditions, including dry eye. Some herbs that may help manage dry eye include:

• Amalaki: Amalaki is a herb believed to have antioxidant properties and may help reduce inflammation in the eye.
• Guduchi: Guduchi is a herb believed to have anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce inflammation in the eye.
• Shankhapushpi: This herb is believed to have a calming effect on the mind and may help reduce the risk of complications from dry eye.

Massage:

Ayurveda recommends massage as a means of promoting relaxation and reducing stress. For example, massaging the eye area with a warm oil such as sesame oil or castor oil may help relax the muscles around the eye and improve the eye’s overall health.

Lifestyle Modifications:

Ayurveda recommends making certain lifestyle modifications to maintain good health and prevent the onset of various health conditions. Some lifestyle modifications that may help manage dry eye include:

• Protecting the eyes from the sun: Wearing sunglasses or a hat with a wide brim can help to protect the eyes from the sun’s harmful UV rays, which can contribute to dry eye.
• Managing stress: Stress is a common trigger for dry eye, and reducing stress through relaxation techniques such as meditation or yoga may help to reduce the risk of complications from dry eye.
• Drinking plenty of water: Staying hydrated is important for maintaining good eye health and may help reduce dry eye risk.

Conclusion

Dry eye is a common chronic condition that can cause discomfort and vision problems. While there is no known cure for dry eye, Ayurveda offers several treatment options that may help manage the condition and improve the overall quality of life for those who experience it. Herbal remedies, massage, and lifestyle modifications may help reduce dry eye’s impact on your daily life. However, it is important to consult an Ayurvedic healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.

Dry Eyes Naturally Treatment

There are many different natural remedies that can help to relieve the uncomfortable dry eye symptoms that you may be experiencing.

The following are the most common and effective natural remedies:

Protect your eyes. 

Avoid dry or windy environments— or at least protect your eyes with appropriate eyewear, such as wraparound sunglasses, whenever you venture outdoors. Also, purchase a humidifier to add moisture to your home or office air.

Consume a healthy diet, including Omega 3.

Omega-3 fatty acids, most commonly found in fish and flax seeds, have been proven to decrease symptoms of dry eyes. In addition, omega-3 reduces eye inflammation and increases tear quantity and quality!

You can increase your Omega-3 intake through supplements or by eating foods with high levels of fatty acid.

Foods that contain Omega-3 include:

• Flaxseed
• Palm oil
• Soybean oil
• Chia seeds
• Walnuts
• Salmon
• Tuna
• Fish oil supplements

Boost your vitamin A, B12, and D levels.

Vitamin D deficiency has been shown to cause symptoms of dry eyes. Vitamins A and B12 are also essential for your ocular health. These vitamins are found in many different foods— try to eat a healthy balanced diet that contains a variety of fruits, vegetables, meat, and dairy products. Vitamin supplements are also an effective way to boost your vitamin levels.

Other vitamins that are essential for your ocular health include:

• Vitamin E
• Vitamin C
• Vitamins B6 and B9
• Riboflavin
• Niacin
• Lutein and Zeaxanthin
• Thiamine

Control blood sugar levels. 

This is especially important if you have diabetes. Diabetes can cause ocular nerve damage due to restricted blood circulation throughout the body. The nerve damage can affect the lacrimal glands and lead to poor tear production— and, consequently, dry eyes. Controlling blood sugar levels by carefully following your doctor’s instructions and eating a balanced diet can reduce your risk of developing nerve damage over time and improve dry eye symptoms.

Lubricating eye drops/ artificial tears. 

Many patients will feel relief from their symptoms with the regular use of artificial tears. Lubricating eye drops, along with some lifestyle changes.

In most cases, lubricating eye drops will provide sufficient relief for symptoms resulting from exhaustion or living in a dry climate. These drops supplement your natural tears with artificial tears to provide increased moisture and protection.

Artificial tears are available for purchase without a prescription. However, there are many different brands to choose from— ask your eye doctor for a recommendation based on your individual needs.

If your eyes are severely dry, lubricating ointment or gel may provide more moisture and relief for longer. However, it is recommended to only use ointments or gels before bedtime because they may cause blurry vision shortly after application.

Stay hydrated. 

Drink enough water throughout the day (at least 8 cups) to ensure that your eyes produce enough tears to combat dry eyes. This is especially important if you live in a hot or dry climate.