What can improve retinal and corneal health? I am a patient with high refractive error since when I was at my 2nd standard in school & now I am 49 - #31384

Improving your eye health with Ayurveda involves balancing your doshas, particularly Vata and Pitta, which play significant roles in eye functions. Start by including Triphala in your daily routine; this is known to have beneficial effects on eye health. Take Triphala churna (powder) at bedtime, a teaspoon mixed with warm water; it helps detox and soothe the eyes.

For dietary adjustments, consume more green leafy vegetables like spinach and kale, as they are high in lutein and zeaxanthin, beneficial for maintaining retinal health. Carrots and sweet potatoes (rich in Vitamin A) should regularly feature in your diet. Avoid heavily spiced, oily, or excessively hot foods which can aggravate Pitta and worsen eye conditions. Including nuts and seeds like almonds and flax seeds can be beneficial due to their Omega-3 fatty acid content.

Practice eye exercises like Trataka (a yogic practice of gazing at a point or flame) aids in enhancing focus and toning eye muscles. Perform this daily, preferably in the evening, in a calm setting. Rotate your eyes clockwise and counterclockwise with eyes gently closed to relax the optic nerves, helping improve circulation.

Herbal drops like rose water can be soothing for your eyes. Apply a few drops in each eye once a day, preferably before bedtime to cleanse the eyes and reduce irritation.

Lifestyle changes include ensuring adequate and regular sleep. Exposure to screens must be minimized. Ensure breaks every 20 minutes during prolonged screen time, by looking away from the screen for 20 seconds.

Given your history of vitreous detachment and family eye history, regular eye check-ups with your ophthalmologist are crucial. Notify your doctor if there’s any sudden change in vision or if symptoms worsen, as prompt allopathic intervention is necessary for conditions like retinal detachment.

For retinal and corneal health, a multi-pronged approach is necessary. High refractive errors and hereditary conditions like ARMD (Age-related Macular Degeneration) and glaucoma require a balanced strategy that incorporates your current allopathic treatments with supportive Ayurvedic practices. Your history of Hepatitis E and recurrent viral conjunctivitis suggests an underlying vulnerability that affects systemic health, including the eyes.

To begin, incorporating herbs known in Siddha-Ayurveda for their ocular benefits might help. Triphala is known for its supportive role in eye health. You could prepare Triphala water by soaking 5 grams of Triphala powder in a glass of water overnight; strain and use this to wash your eyes every morning. It’s mild but can be quite soothing over time.

Given the role of the liver in detoxification, which is central in Ayurveda, addressing your Hepatitis E through diet and lifestyle is key. Consider consuming liver-supportive herbs like Bhumyamalaki, Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia), and amla. These can support liver function, and in turn, help with eye health. Taking them as a part of a warm decoction in the morning or evening can be beneficial.

Practices like Nasya (nasal administration of medicated oils), using drops like Anu Taila, might help nourish the underlying nervous system channels connected to the eyes, thereby reducing strain and inflammation. However, consult with a qualified practitioner for personalized methods, especially since you have a history of vitreous detachment.

A diet low in processed foods, rich in greens, Dhaatu-nourishing foods such as ghee, almonds, carrots, and spinach might be worthwhile. Also, control pittic activities (such as excessive screen time or stress) which can exacerbate eye strain.

Regularity in sleep, managing stress, and gentle eye exercises can further enhance eye health. Note that with your background, maintaining close follow-up with your eye specialist is crucial to prevent progression of hereditary conditions you mentioned. Remember, these Ayurvedic approaches should complement your current treatments, not replace them. If any serious symptoms arise, seek medical help immediately.