This can lead to symptoms such as dryness, irritation, redness, a gritty sensation, and blurred vision.
Factors contributing to dry eye syndrome include aging, hormonal changes, prolonged screen use, environmental conditions, and certain medical conditions or medications.
Here are eight Ayurvedic remedies that may help prevent and alleviate symptoms of dry eye syndrome according to Dr Biswas Ranjan, BAMS and senior consultant at Health Global.
Blinking exercises: Regular blinking exercises help maintain eye moisture and prevent dry eyes.
This reduces eye strain, maintains moisture, and promotes eye health, making it essential for preventing dry eyes.
Aloe vera gel is known for its moisturising and anti-inflammatory properties, can help alleviate dry eyes when applied around the eye area. (Image: Canva)
Dry eye awareness month: Dry eye syndrome, also known as keratoconjunctivitis sicca, is a common condition where the eyes do not produce enough tears or the right quality of tears to keep the eyes properly lubricated. This can lead to symptoms such as dryness, irritation, redness, a gritty sensation, and blurred vision. Factors contributing to dry eye syndrome include aging, hormonal changes, prolonged screen use, environmental conditions, and certain medical conditions or medications. The syndrome can significantly impact daily activities and overall quality of life.
Here are eight Ayurvedic remedies that may help prevent and alleviate symptoms of dry eye syndrome according to Dr Biswas Ranjan, BAMS and senior consultant at Health Global.
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Triphala eye wash: Triphala, a blend of three fruits (Amalaki, bibhitaki, and haritaki), is known for its cleansing properties. To prepare, boil triphala in water, strain the mixture, and let it cool. Use this cooled solution as an eye wash. It helps alleviate dryness, reduce inflammation, and cleanse the eyes, promoting overall eye health and comfort.
Ghee application: Pure cow's ghee (clarified butter) is known for its nourishing and lubricating properties. Apply a small amount lightly around the eyelids before bedtime. Ghee helps retain moisture, soothes irritation, and reduces inflammation. Its natural lubricating qualities support eye health and comfort, making it an effective remedy for preventing dryness and maintaining the delicate skin around the eyes.
Cucumber slices: Placing cucumber slices over closed eyes provides immediate relief from dryness and irritation. Cucumbers are known for their cooling and hydrating properties. Their natural antioxidants and high-water content help hydrate the eyes, reduce puffiness, and soothe irritation. Relax with cucumber slices on your eyes for 10-15 minutes for a refreshing experience.
Rose water: It is a gentle and soothing remedy for dry eyes. Use pure rose water as eye drops to refresh and hydrate the eyes, reducing dryness and irritation. Its natural anti-inflammatory properties help calm irritation and promote moisture, providing a cooling and refreshing effect that can significantly alleviate the discomfort associated with dry eyes.
Aloe vera gel: It is known for its moisturising and anti-inflammatory properties, can help alleviate dry eyes when applied around the eye area. Carefully apply a small amount of pure aloe vera gel around the eyes, avoiding direct contact with the eyes. Aloe vera helps hydrate the skin, reduce inflammation, and soothe irritation, providing moisture and comfort for dry eyes.
Castor oil: Cold-pressed, additive-free castor oil is an excellent natural lubricant for dry eyes. Before bedtime, place a drop of castor oil in each eye. The oil's thick consistency helps lock in moisture, reduce evaporation, and provide a protective barrier against dryness. Its anti-inflammatory properties soothe irritation and promote eye health, offering relief from dry eyes.
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Fennel tea compress: Fennel tea's anti-inflammatory properties make it effective for relieving dry eyes. Prepare fennel tea, allow it to cool, then soak a clean cloth in the tea. Place the cloth over closed eyes for 10-15 minutes. The compress reduces inflammation, soothes irritation, and provides moisture, offering gentle and effective relief from dry eye symptoms.
Blinking exercises: Regular blinking exercises help maintain eye moisture and prevent dry eyes. Blinking spreads natural tears evenly across the eye surface, keeping them lubricated. Practice blinking fully and frequently, especially during prolonged screen use or intense focus. This reduces eye strain, maintains moisture, and promotes eye health, making it essential for preventing dry eyes.
