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1000+ verified doctorsWhat are contact lenses and how can Ayurveda help with eye health and comfort? - #16625
For the past few years, I’ve been using contact lenses to correct my vision, and they’ve been working fine, but I’ve recently been experiencing some dryness, irritation, and discomfort in my eyes, especially after wearing them for long periods of time. I’ve tried different brands, but the irritation doesn’t seem to go away. My doctor suggested using eye drops to moisturize my eyes, but I’m wondering if there are long-term solutions to improving eye comfort while wearing contact lenses. I’ve heard that Ayurveda has a unique approach to eye health and vision problems, so I started researching whether there are natural remedies that can help improve eye comfort while using contact lenses. Does Ayurveda suggest any specific herbs, oils, or practices to moisturize and strengthen the eyes? Are there specific Ayurvedic oils like Triphala, castor oil, or ghee that can be used to nourish and improve eye health without causing irritation? I also want to know if Ayurveda recommends any dietary changes or herbal supplements that can support healthy vision and eye moisture. I’ve heard that Amla (Indian gooseberry) and saffron are beneficial for the eyes, but I’m unsure how they work. If anyone has experience with using Ayurvedic remedies for dry eyes or discomfort from contact lenses, I’d love to hear what worked for you.
Doctors' responses
In Ayurveda, eye health is deeply connected to the balance of the doshas, particularly Pitta dosha, which governs heat and moisture in the body. Dryness and irritation from contact lenses may be a sign of Pitta imbalance or lack of moisture in the eyes. Ayurvedic remedies can help alleviate these symptoms and support overall eye health. Triphala is one of the most recommended herbs in Ayurveda for improving eye health and vision. It can be used as an eye wash or taken internally to support the eyes and reduce irritation. Castor oil and ghee are also considered excellent for nourishing the eyes, as they have hydrating and soothing properties. For topical application, a small drop of castor oil can be placed around the eyes before bed to help moisturize and reduce dryness.
Diet-wise, Amla (Indian gooseberry) is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, which are excellent for eye health and can be included in your diet or taken as a supplement. Saffron is another herb known to support vision and prevent eye strain, and it can be added to food or taken in small quantities. Additionally, incorporating omega-3 fatty acids from sources like flaxseeds or walnuts and staying hydrated can help improve moisture levels in the eyes. Practices like Trataka (a yogic practice of focusing on a single point or candle flame) can strengthen the eye muscles and enhance focus.
To manage dry eyes caused by contact lenses, Ayurveda also suggests reducing screen time, practicing eyewash with rosewater or cool water, and using cold compresses to soothe inflammation. If you haven’t already, consider consulting an Ayurvedic practitioner who can offer personalized recommendations based on your specific doshic imbalance.
Dryness and irritation with contact lenses can be quite bothersome, and it sounds like you’re doing the right thing by seeking out long-term solutions beyond just eye drops. Ayurveda indeed takes a holistic approach to eye health, looking at symptoms as part of a bigger picture relating to your body’s doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha), your lifestyle, diet, and more.
For long-term relief and overall eye health, there’s some stuff in Ayurveda to consider. Take Triphala for instance; it’s a common herb mix known to support eye health. Some people actually make a Triphala eye wash. You’ll wanna soak a small amount of Triphala powder in fresh water overnight, then strain it really well in the morning. The clear liquid is gentle enough to splash on closed eyes—super refreshing actually—just don’t go overboard.
Castor oil is another suggestion—one that’s been used for eye lubrication. A drop of pure, cold-pressed castor oil applied at bedtime to the corner of each eye may help. Castor oil can be calming, but check with your doctor first if you wear lenses.
Ghee is sometimes used in Ayurvedic therapies called ‘Netra Tarpana’—like a ghee eye bath. Probably not something you can do at home unless you really know your stuff, but some Ayurvedic practitioners provide it.
In terms of diet, yes, Amla can be awesome for the eyes. It’s super high in Vitamin C and used to support Pitta and balance the body’s heat, and it’s simple to add to your diet. You could try amla juice in the morning. Saffron too… it can be brewed in milk, a pinch. It’s thought to have antioxidative properties that may protect eyes from stress and dryness.
Supplements that strengthen your Agni—your digestion—like a triphala churna taken at night, can support nutrient absorption. And don’t forget to bump up your hydration. Plenty of water keeps your eyes moist too.
Remember tho, it’s key to look at your overall lifestyle—like reducing screen time or taking breaks when using computers. Who knew how much lifestyle stuff feeds into our eye health? Keep in mind that what works for others may not always work for you… people react differently, so trial and error with careful observation can be helpful.
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