Saliva In Eyes Ayurveda

Question

I’ve been hearing about some unique Ayurvedic practices recently, and one that caught my attention was using saliva in eyes Ayurveda methods for eye health. A friend of mine mentioned that applying fresh morning saliva to the eyes can help with common problems like dryness, irritation, and even minor infections. I wanted to learn more about this and whether it’s actually safe or beneficial.

I’ve been dealing with dry eyes and a gritty feeling for the past few months, especially when I wake up in the morning. I spend a lot of time on screens for work, and my eyes often feel strained by the end of the day. Could the practice of using saliva in eyes Ayurveda really help with these symptoms? Is there a specific way this should be done to ensure it’s hygienic and effective?

I’m also curious about the reasoning behind this practice. Does saliva in eyes Ayurveda work because saliva contains natural healing enzymes, or is it more about balancing some doshas related to eye health? It’s fascinating that something so simple could have potential benefits, but I’m not sure how it aligns with Ayurvedic principles.

Another concern I have is whether this is suitable for everyone. For instance, I sometimes wake up with bad breath or feel like my digestion isn’t great. Would applying saliva to the eyes still be effective, or could it actually cause harm if my body isn’t in balance? Does saliva in eyes Ayurveda recommend this only for people with strong digestion and good overall health?

Finally, are there any alternative Ayurvedic remedies for dry and strained eyes if this method doesn’t suit me? I’d love to know if there are herbs, oils, or other natural treatments that align with saliva in eyes Ayurveda practices but don’t involve using saliva directly.

Dr. Harsha Joy · Accepted Answer

The practice of using morning saliva in the eyes, known as "spitting in the eyes" or "morning saliva eye treatment", is an ancient Ayurvedic practice that some believe can help with various eye conditions, including dryness, irritation, and infection. The reasoning behind this practice is based on the belief that fresh morning saliva contains natural enzymes and antibodies that may have healing properties, which could potentially help with minor eye problems. Saliva is considered to be a part of the body's natural fluids that help nourish and cleanse, and in Ayurveda, it’s thought that applying it to the eyes can help balance certain doshas, particularly Pitta, which governs inflammation and heat in the body and is often linked to eye discomfort.

However, it's essential to approach this practice with caution. The eyes are sensitive, and saliva can carry bacteria or impurities, so using saliva in the eyes without proper hygiene could potentially lead to irritation or infection. If you are considering trying this method, it is important to ensure that your mouth and teeth are clean and that you are using fresh saliva right after waking up. It’s also advisable to do so sparingly and carefully, as this practice isn't universally recommended by all Ayurvedic practitioners and may not be suitable for everyone.

As for your concern about dry eyes and screen strain, Ayurveda offers alternative remedies that may be safer and more effective. For instance, Triphala, a classic Ayurvedic herb, is known to promote eye health and can be taken as a supplement or used as a wash to help relieve dryness and irritation. Castor oil (often used in a small amount as an eye drop before bed) is also believed to be beneficial for dry eyes and is considered gentle and nourishing. Aloe vera gel or rose water are commonly used in Ayurvedic eye care to soothe irritation and dryness.

In addition to these treatments, Ayurveda recommends lifestyle adjustments to support eye health, including taking breaks from screen time, practicing eye exercises (like palming or focusing on distant objects), and using oils or herbal formulations that balance the Pitta dosha. If you're experiencing ongoing discomfort, it's a good idea to consult with an Ayurvedic doctor to find a personalized treatment that suits your body’s unique constitution (dosha) and imbalances.

Finally, while using saliva in the eyes is not universally practiced or recommended, Ayurveda offers a wide variety of eye care practices and remedies that may help address your symptoms in a safer, more balanced way. Always prioritize hygiene and consult with a professional if you’re uncertain about the methods you are using.

Dr. Ayush Varma · Answer

Using fresh morning saliva as an eye remedy has deep roots in some traditional practices, although it’s not a widely established or mainstream Ayurvedic method. Saliva is believed to cleanse and heal due to its enzymes and antimicrobial properties, but it's important to approach this remedy with a pinch of caution. Since eyes are quite sensitive, introducing any foreign substance should be done carefully, especially saliva which contains a mix of enzymes, bacteria, and other component which can vary depending on one's overall health and hygiene.

When it comes to dry eyes, this DIY method involves gently applying your own fresh saliva from the first thing in morning—before eating or drinking—directly to the eyes. However, given the modern concerns about hygiene, especially with oral health not at its peak (like with your noted bad breath or digestive issues), it might not be the first Agada (remedial method) to employ for everyone.

Dry eyes often relate to Pitta imbalance in Ayurveda, especially due to strain from excessive screen time. Here, instead of relying on saliva, one might rather explore more consistent formulations like Triphala eyewash. Triphala, a concoction of three fruits, helps in cleansing and nourishing the eye tissues. You could soak Triphala churna in water overnight, strain it, and use this water to rinse your eyes - quite soothing and safe.

Additionally, incorporating a few eye exercises could help. Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away -- helps relax your eyes and minimize the strain. Including Ghee in your diet helps balance vata dosha, providing inner lubrication which might reflect positively on your eye health, too. Castor oil is another eye-friendly lubricant; applying a drop in each eye before bed can soothe dryness.

It’s worth considering head massage or Nasya (nasal oil drops) to support the senses, especially if digestion and overall balance seems off. Specific Ayurvedic herbs like Amla or other cooling herbs can help Pitta as well. And for those feeling adventurous, integrating more mucilaginous foods like Aloe Vera or Mulethi (licorice) can be quite soothing internally.

So while the idea of saliva is intriguing from some perspectives, looking toward broader eye care practices in Ayurveda could be more suitable and effective for you given your specific conditions. Since each person is unique, it might be wise to see an Ayurvedic practitioner to tailor recommendations exactly to you, especially if digestion or dosha balance is a concern!

Saliva In Eyes Ayurveda - #3901

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