Namaste Khurram,
From an Ayurvedic perspective, managing diabetic retinopathy alongside diabetes and hypertension involves a holistic approach that supports balanced blood sugar, healthy blood pressure, and eye nourishment. Here are some recommendations that you can consider—keeping in mind that these should complement, not replace, your current medical care: 1. Triphala churna- 1 teaspoon of Triphala powder mixed in warm water at bedtime may help cleanse and nourish the eyes. 2.Giloy ghan vati- 1 tab twice daily after food with Luke warm water 3. Ashwagandha churna- 1/2 tsp after food with warm milk Emphasize whole, unprocessed foods such as fresh vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and lean proteins. Include bitter vegetables like bitter gourd (karela) and incorporate turmeric and garlic, which may help in blood sugar and blood pressure regulation. Avoid refined sugars, processed foods, and excessive salt or oil. Engage in regular, moderate exercise such as brisk walking or yoga. Practice relaxation techniques like meditation and pranayama to help lower stress, which can have a positive effect on blood pressure and overall well-being. Regular Monitoring your blood sugar and blood pressure levels • For diabetic retinopathy, periodic eye check-ups with your ophthalmologist remain essential.
For Retinopathy in both eyes, , daily apply Triphala grith, in both eyes keep for 1 hr. and then wash with normal water, should also take triphala grith 1tsp. internally preferably with milk,at bedtime.daily if you have any ayurvedic panchkarma center nearby can do netra tarpan. keep diabetes under control with whatever medication you are taking, add proper anti diabetic diet + yogasan+ exercise on daily basis.
Netra tarpana: Netra tarpana, or eye nourishment, is a therapy where the eyes are bathed with medicated ghee in a dough ring that is placed around the eyes. This therapy helps lubricate, soothe, and strengthen the eyes, and improve vision. Netra tarpana can be done with ghee that is infused with herbs such as triphala, bhringaraj, licorice, or rose.
Lepa or Bidalaka: Lepa, or paste, is also known as Bidalaka. It is a therapy where a paste of herbs is applied on the eyelids and the surrounding area. This therapy helps cool, cleanse, and heal the eyes, and reduce the swelling, redness, and pain. Lepa/Bidalaka can be done with fresh or dried herbs, or with ready-made eye packs
Lepa or Bidalaka: Lepa, or paste, is also known as Bidalaka. It is a therapy where a paste of herbs is applied on the eyelids and the surrounding area. This therapy helps cool, cleanse, and heal the eyes, and reduce the swelling, redness, and pain. Lepa/Bidalaka can be done with fresh or dried herbs, or with ready-made eye packs
Shirodhara: Shirodhara, or dripping of oil over the head, is a therapy where a stream of warm oil is poured over the head and forehead to calm the mind and the nervous system, and to balance the Doshas. This therapy helps relieve stress, anxiety, and depression, which can worsen diabetic retinopathy. Shirodhara can be done with oil that is infused with herbs such as Bhringaraj, Yashtimadhu, or Jatamansi
Nasya: Nasya, or nasal administration of medicine, is a therapy where medicated oil or powder is instilled into the nostrils to clear the nasal passages and the sinuses, and to stimulate the nerves and the brain. This therapy helps improve blood circulation and oxygen supply to the eyes, and prevent the degeneration of the optic nerve. Nasya can be done with oil or powder that is infused with herbs such as Brahmi, Vacha, Jatamans
Dealing with diabetic retinopathy and hypertension isn’t easy, so it’s good you’re asking for help. Ayurveda can support you, but remember, it shouldn’t replace conventional treatments for these conditions. You might wanna chat with a healthcare provider for an integrated approach.
Starting with diet, focus on foods that balance Kapha and Pitta doshas, which are usually disturbed in diabetes. Opt for light, easily digestible meals. Think warm vegetables, grains like barley and millet, and legumes. Gurmar (Gymnema sylvestre), which is known to modulate blood sugar, might be helpful. But make sure it doesn’t interact with any meds you’re on.
Avoid overly spicy, salty, oily foods, and sweets. Be cautious with fruits; some are sugary. Bitter gourd (karela) can be a great addition due to its natural blood sugar-lowering properties. Try having it cooked or juiced daily.
For hypertension, Triphala is useful for cleansing and supporting the eyes and overall health. You can find it in most Ayurvedic stores in Pakistan. Simply take a teaspoon of Triphala powder in warm water before bedtime.
Lifestyle wise, incorporate gentle exercise like morning walks or yoga – keeps the blood circulation going and helps manage stress. Pranayama, breathing exercises like Anulom Vilom, and meditation are beneficial too for stress and hypertension reduction.
It’s also good practice to maintain regular sleep and meal times. All about keeping the body’s natural rhythms in check. Ensure you’re hydrating well, but avoid drinking too much water in one go.
Lastly, regular eye check-ups are crucial. Immediate attention if the vision issues worsen is a must, okay? Our aim is to support the eye health, not substitute proper medical care.
Some of this can seem overwhelming, take it step by step, and keep checking in on your journey.
