“Netram: The Mirror of Health — Ayurvedic Wisdom for Eye Care”

 “Netram: The Mirror of Health — Ayurvedic Wisdom for Eye Care”

Introduction

The eyes are not only the windows to the world—they are also the mirrors of inner health, according to Ayurveda. With increased screen time, artificial lighting, and stress, visual disorders are rapidly rising. Ancient seers of Ayurveda, through Shalakya Tantra, gave us a rich and holistic science of ocular health—long before modern ophthalmology began.

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Netram in Ayurveda: More Than a Sense Organ

In Ayurvedic anatomy (Sharira), Netra (eye) is considered a vital sense organ (Jñānendriya), governed by Alochaka Pitta, Vyana Vata, and Tarpaka Kapha.

Basic Eye Components in Ayurveda:

• Drishti Mandala – Visual field

• Sita and Krishna Mandala – Sclera and iris

• Sandhi – Canthi/angles of the eye

• Shukra-Pitta-Vata-Kapha – All doshas contribute to vision

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Why Are Eye Disorders Increasing Today?

According to both modern and Ayurvedic understanding, key causes include:

• Overuse of screens – leading to Shushkākṣi Roga (dry eye)

• Poor sleep – depletes Tarpaka Kapha and Ojas

• Excessive stress and anger – aggravates Alochaka Pitta

• Pollution and harsh lighting

• Digestive toxins (Ama) – affecting all Indriyas

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Ayurvedic Daily Eye Care (Netrakriyā Kalpa)

✅ 1. Anjana (Collyrium)

Use of herbal collyrium (like Elaneer Kuzhambu or Triphala Anjana) once or twice a week cleanses and strengthens the eye.

✅ 2. Netratarpana (Eye Rejuvenation Therapy)

A classic Shalakya procedure where medicated ghee is pooled over the eyes. Useful in:

• Eye strain

• Dry eyes

• Retinal fatigue

• Age-related degeneration

✅ 3. Aschyotana (Eye Drops)

Sterile herbal decoction drops (Triphala Kashaya) for burning, itching, or strain.

✅ 4. Nasyam (Nasal Medication)

Nose is the gateway to the head. Daily nasya with Anu Tailam or Shadbindu Tailam lubricates optic nerves and reduces tension.

✅ 5. Padabhyanga (Foot Massage)

The eye’s nerves end at the feet (according to Ayurveda). Regular oil massage improves vision and calms Vata.

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Triphala: The Tridosha-Soothing Nectar for Eyes

Triphala (Haritaki, Bibhitaki, Amalaki) is called Chakshushya (vision-enhancing) in classical texts.

• Triphala Kashaya / Ghrita – for internal consumption

• Triphala Eye Wash – for fatigue and allergies

• Triphala Anjana – strengthens retina and lens

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Sattvic Lifestyle for Clear Vision

• Early sleep, early rise (to preserve Alochaka Pitta)

• Regular blinking & resting eyes during screen use

• Use of rose water compress or cucumber slices

• Avoid direct sunlight, dust, or late-night screen exposure

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Sanskrit Reference:

“Chakṣuḥ prāṇasya nāyakam |”
– Sushruta Samhita, Uttara Tantra
“The eye is the leader among all the sensory functions; it is life’s most precious guide.”

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Conclusion

Your eye health is not just about eyesight, but a reflection of your mental clarity, doshic balance, and nervous stability. Ayurveda gives us tools not just to prevent vision loss but to nourish the eye as a sacred organ. With simple daily practices and ancient procedures like Netratarpana, you can preserve your vision for decades to come.