7 daily Ayurvedic habits to keep your eyesight sharp, eyes healthy

Trataka is an Ayurvedic practice that involves steady gazing at a candle flame without blinking for short periods. (Picture: Pexels)

• Ayurveda recommends daily rituals for stronger eye health
• Practices include Trataka, Netra Tarpana, and Triphala rinse
• Balanced diet and eye exercises help reduce strain from screens

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There was a time when eye care was part of everyday living. Long before computer screens entered our lives, Ayurvedic physicians suggested that your sight should be protected daily through simple routines, mindful eating and natural practices.

Today, after long hours spent staring at phones and laptops, the old rituals feel more relevant than ever. In Ayurveda, the eyes are governed by Alochaka Pitta, the energy linked with visual perception. When stress, fatigue or unhealthy habits disturb this balance, the eyes often respond with dryness, strain and blurred vision.

According to Dr Mandeep Singh Basu, Director, Dr Basu Eye Care Centre, modern lifestyles are taxing the vision. “Most people wait for symptoms before thinking about eye care,” he says, adding, “Ayurveda takes the opposite view, it teaches us to nurture the eyes daily so that problems arise far less often.”

Dr Basu suggests 7 everyday Ayurvedic rituals for stronger eyes

Trataka

Trataka involves steady gazing at a candle flame without blinking for short periods. This ancient practice strengthens the ciliary muscles, sharpens focus and stimulates the visual centres of the brain. Many practitioners also find it deeply calming for the mind.

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Netra tarpana

One of Ayurveda’s most revered therapies, Netra Tarpana involves bathing the eyes in warm medicated ghee under professional supervision. The treatment deeply nourishes eye tissues, relieves dryness and fatigue, and supports long-term eye lubrication.

Triphala netra prakshalana

A gentle eye rinse prepared with Triphala, a blend of amalaki, bibhitaki and haritaki, is widely recommended in Ayurveda. Used in diluted form, it helps cleanse the eyes and soothe irritation after a night’s rest.

Nasya

Nasya involves placing herbal oil drops into the nostrils, a practice believed to influence the head and sensory organs. According to Ayurvedic texts, the nasal passages provide a pathway affecting the eyes and brain.

Chakshushyaahara

Ayurveda emphasises foods naturally supportive of eye health. Ingredients such as ghee, carrots, leafy greens and amla are traditionally valued for nourishing the visual system and maintaining internal balance.

Netra vyayama

Simple eye movements, looking up, down, sideways and rotating the gaze, help improve circulation around the ocular muscles. Such exercises may reduce fatigue from prolonged screen use and support muscle flexibility.

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Ratricharya

Evening routines matter greatly for eye recovery. Reducing screen exposure before sleep, gently washing the eyes and allowing adequate rest helps the visual tissues repair overnight.

Dr Basu believes the strength of Ayurveda lies in its consistency rather than complexity. “None of these practices are difficult. But when done regularly, they support the natural resilience of the eyes,” he says.

FAQs on Ayurvedic practices for good eye health

Q. What does Ayurveda say about eye health?

In Ayurveda, eye health is linked to the balance of body energies (doshas), especially Pitta dosha, which governs vision and metabolism.

Q. Which Ayurvedic herbs are good for eye health?

Herbs like Triphala, Amla, and Neem are commonly used to support eye health due to their antioxidant and cleansing properties.

Q. What is Triphala and how does it help the eyes?

Triphala is a combination of three fruits and is believed to detoxify the body, improve digestion, and support vision when used as a wash or supplement under guidance.

Q. Are there Ayurvedic eye exercises?

Yes, practices like palming, gentle blinking, and focusing exercises are recommended to relax eye muscles and reduce strain, especially for people who spend long hours on screens.

Q. Can diet improve eye health according to Ayurveda?

Yes, Ayurveda recommends a balanced diet rich in ghee, green vegetables, fruits, and nuts to nourish the eyes and maintain overall health.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.