Ayurvedic remedies to protect your eyes when summer heat peaks

Ayurvedic home remedies: Ayurvedic eye drops made from cooling herbs like rose water, Triphala, and pure cow's ghee can provide relief and hydration to the eyes (Image: Canva)

Heat waves pose significant risks to our health, including our eyes. When temperatures rise, prolonged exposure to extreme heat and sunlight can lead to various eye problems, including photokeratitis (sunburn of the eye) and dry eye syndrome. Understanding how heat waves can impact the eyes is crucial.

According to Dr Mandeep Singh Basu, Director of Dr Basu Eye Hospital in Delhi, Photokeratitis occurs when the cornea, the transparent outer layer of the eye, is exposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation for an extended period, resulting in symptoms like redness, pain, tearing, and sensitivity to light. Dry eye syndrome arises when the eyes fail to produce sufficient tears, leading to pain, irritation, and blurred vision.

In Ayurveda, there are numerous therapies and preventive measures to shield the eyes from the harmful effects of heat waves:

Eyedrops: Ayurvedic eye drops made from cooling herbs like rose water, Triphala, and pure cow's ghee can provide relief and hydration to the eyes. These drops rejuvenate the eyes, reducing dryness and irritation caused by heat.

Aloe Vera: The cooling and moisturising properties of aloe vera make it an excellent treatment for soothing painful eyes. Applying fresh aloe vera gel near the eyes can reduce inflammation and promote healing.

Ayurvedic eye wash: Washing the eyes with Triphala powder or rose water can cleanse the eyes, removing irritants or allergens. Triphala, comprising three fruits — amla, bibhitaki, and haritaki — possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties beneficial for eye health.

Stay hydrated: Adequate hydration is important for maintaining moisture levels in the eyes. Dehydration can worsen dry eye symptoms, so ensure you drink plenty of water, especially during hot weather.

Protective eyewear: Wearing sunglasses with UV protection can shield the eyes from harmful UV rays during outdoor activities. Opt for sunglasses that block 100 percent of both UVA and UVB rays to minimize the risk of photokeratitis and other UV-related eye damage.

Cooling diet: A balanced diet rich in cooling foods like fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs can support overall eye health during heat waves. Foods such as watermelon, cucumber, coconut water, and mint possess cooling properties that help reduce body heat and inflammation.

Manage time spent in sunlight: It's also crucial to manage time spent in sunlight. Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight during peak hours, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Seek shade whenever possible and limit outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day to protect your eyes from heat-related injuries.

In addition to these remedies, ayurvedic herbs can also improve eye health during heat waves. Hibiscus tea, for instance, has been shown to potentially lower blood pressure in patients with a history of hypertension, making it beneficial for those experiencing elevated blood pressure due to heat.