5 Ayurvedic Remedies To Help You Improve Eyesight

Ayurvedic medicine has been used for millennia to treat and prevent conditions that affect the eyes, with one of the earliest surgical procedures for cataract being described by the Indian physician Sushruta, over 2000 years ago! Of course, Ayurveda is dominated by less invasive and completely natural treatments that include the use of herbs. This wealth of information on herbs for eyesight is what is most useful to us. Some of the most popular Ayurvedic herbal eye care solutions include the following.

* Triphala

Also known as the ‘three fruits,’ Triphala is a potent Ayurvedic tonic that consists of three traditional fruits that have long been use to treat various health conditions. These fruits include Amla or Amalaki (Emblica officinalis), Haritaki (Terminalia chebula), and Bibhitaki (Terminalia belerica). Each ingredient possesses strong medicinal properties and the formulation has a balancing effect on all three doshas. It is most widely used to lower toxicity levels in the body and support general health. Although triphala is usually ingested, to address eye health concerns, it may also be used as a topical application or in eye drops.

* Ginkgo Biloba

Indigenous to China and only later introduced to Ayurveda, Gingko Biloba is today used in folk remedies across the world. The herb is most often used to support mental health as a brain tonic and to improve blood circulation in the body. As a natural antioxidant, the herb is regarded as protective of eye health and is often recommended to strengthen or protect vision.

* Fennel Seeds & Almonds

Fennel seeds and almonds are popular ingredients in various Ayurvedic remedies and they are regarded as beneficial for eyesight too. While there is plenty of evidence regarding their therapeutic benefits and most nutritionists agree that nutrients in almonds do promote healthy vision, there is inadequate research to support claims that fennel seeds and almonds can improve eyesight. Nevertheless, this remedy has been used for centuries and poses no known risk, so if you’d like to try it out, go right ahead.

* Rose Water

Rose water is widely used in India for ceremonial purposes and also for therapeutic purposes. Rosa damascena, is in fact a fairly common ingredient in numerous Ayurvedic remedies, as well as in Unnani medicine. Rose water is believed to posses antiseptic and antibacterial properties and because of its cooling and soothing nature is often used as an eye rinse or to relieve other eye problems.

* Indian Gooseberry (Amla)

The powerful antioxidants and high proficiency of vitamin C in gooseberry can strengthen the eyes. It also improves the functioning of retinal cells and promotes healthier capillaries. Mix 2-4 tablespoons of Indian gooseberry powder in water and honey. Drink this twice a day for a few months.