Is There an Ayurvedic Cure for Amblyopia in Adults? - #2243
I’ve had amblyopia (“lazy eye”) in my left eye since childhood, and now that I’m 28, it’s starting to bother me more. My vision in that eye is blurry, and I mostly rely on my right eye for everything, which sometimes feels strained. Doctors told me it’s too late to fix it completely, but I’m wondering if Ayurveda has a different perspective. I read that treatments like Netra Tarpana or specific herbal drops might help strengthen the weaker eye or improve overall vision. Some people also mention using herbs like Triphala internally for better eye health. I’m willing to try these, but I need to know if they can work for amblyopia specifically or if they’re only helpful for general eye issues. Do you recommend any Ayurvedic therapies or medicines for improving amblyopia in adults? Is it possible to regain some vision in the lazy eye with these treatments, or is the condition irreversible after a certain age?
100% Anonymous
completely confidential.
No sign-up needed.

Doctors’ responses
In Ayurveda, amblyopia, or “lazy eye,” is often seen as a condition linked to an imbalance in the doshas, particularly Vata, which can affect vision and the nervous system. While Ayurveda does not claim to reverse the condition completely, certain therapies and herbs may help improve the overall health of the eyes and potentially enhance the function of the weaker eye. Treatments like Netra Tarpana, which involves the application of medicated ghee around the eyes, can nourish and strengthen the ocular tissues, improving vision and alleviating eye strain. Triphala, known for its antioxidant properties, is often used both internally and externally to promote eye health and improve circulation to the eyes. Additionally, herbal eye drops made from ingredients like rose, turmeric, or honey can support the eye’s natural healing process. While these treatments may help with improving overall eye health, it’s important to have realistic expectations. Ayurveda can help strengthen the eye muscles and improve focus, but significant changes in vision may be limited, especially if amblyopia has persisted for many years. Regular eye exercises, such as focusing exercises and eye yoga, can also complement these treatments.
Amblyopia in adults can be tricky, age-wise, but hey, Ayurveda is about finding balance and working with your body’s natural rhythms. While it’s true that fixing amblyopia completely after a certain age is tough, there’s room for improvement, you know? Especially with changes in lifestyle, diet, and some mindful treatments.
Starting with Netra Tarpana, it’s a great way to nourish the eyes. This therapy involves bathing the eyes in a pool of clarified butter, or ghee, made from cow’s milk, which is really cooling and rejuvenates the eye tissues, or dhatus. You might need a trained therapist (way better than trying this on your own!) to do this correctly. Frequency? Once a week, for a month or so, but check how you feel after each session.
Herbal eye drops might soothe, but they are more for symptom relief than addressing amblyopia itself. So, test 'em to see if they help relieve strain or dryness.
Now, for Triphala… it’s like an all-rounder for health. Taking it as Triphala powder, a small teaspoon with warm water at bedtime could help with digestion and, indirectly, eye health. Eyes are part of your Pitta dosha, so keeping your digestion smooth is a good thing.
Also, simple things like padded eye exercises could help in coordination. If you haven’t tried, patching the stronger eye for certain periods each day might actually make the weaker one work harder, even at this age.
As far as crucial improvements go, you might not see drastic changes, but managing the eye strain and nourishing the tissues can certainly make both eyes feel better. Trust me, every bit helps right? Always listen to your body and maybe check in with an Ayurvedic practitioner to get some one-on-one guidance.
Oh, and don’t forget the good ol’ basics. Staring at screens can make strain worse, so take breaks, explore eye yoga, and keep your living space gentle on the eyes with good lighting. Every little thing adds up!

100% Anonymous
600+ certified Ayurvedic experts. No sign-up.
About our doctors
Only qualified ayurvedic doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.