I was born with an eyesight issue, and by the age of 3, my parents had already taken me to an ophthalmologist. His words stuck with them, "As soon as she starts reading, she’ll need glasses." Sure enough, at the age of 4, I was the only one in my kindergarten class of 60 students wearing specs. I don’t remember a life without glasses or how the world looks without them.
Growing up, my doctor warned me that if I didn’t take proper care of my eyes, my prescription would keep increasing. It was a daunting thought for a child, but my grandmother had a simple ‘Ayurvedic Nuskha’ that changed everything, washing my eyes with Triphala water. I started this practice in Class 7, and I haven’t looked back since.
The fear of ending up with thick ‘Soda Glasses’, like Baburao Ganpatrao Apte from ‘Hera Pheri’, disappeared. Here’s the surprising part, my prescription has remained stable since I was 14 or 15 years old. Sure, long screen hours might occasionally cause a slight change, but Triphala water has worked wonders for me. While I still wear specs, my prescription hasn’t increased as rapidly as my doctor once predicted.
Sounds too good to be true, right? To bring more clarity on the benefits of Triphala water for eye health, we spoke to Dr Sandeep Kisan Rajput, BAMS MD, HOD, Associate professor Balrog (Pediatrics), YMT Medical College, Navi Mumbai.
Dr Rajput said, "As an Ayurvedic practitioner with years of experience, I often recommend incorporating traditional remedies into daily routines for maintaining and improving health, including eye health. One such beneficial practice is washing your eyes with Triphala water each morning."
What is Triphala?
Triphala, meaning "three fruits" in Sanskrit, is a cornerstone of Ayurvedic medicine. It is a blend of Amalaki (Emblica officinalis), Bibhitaki (Terminalia bellirica), and Haritaki (Terminalia chebula). Each fruit brings unique health benefits:
- Amalaki (Indian Gooseberry): According to studies, amla is a rich source of Vitamin C, it boosts immunity and promotes skin health.
- Bibhitaki: Known for its rejuvenating properties, it supports overall well-being.
- Haritaki: A natural cleanser that aids the body’s detoxification processes.
This potent combination is celebrated for its antioxidant properties, which play a critical role in maintaining eye health.
Also read: Here’s Why You Should Add Triphala Churan In Your Night Routine
How Triphala Benefits the Eyes
The eyes are delicate organs susceptible to strain, inflammation, and environmental stressors. Dr Rajput highlights how Triphala supports eye health:
"For eye health specifically, Triphala is revered for its antioxidant properties, which are crucial in maintaining the clarity and health of the visual system. Regular use of Triphala water can help in soothing eye inflammation, reducing eye strain, and improving vision over time by nurturing the eye’s delicate tissues."
Preparing Triphala Water
Here’s a step-by-step guide shared by Dr Rajput to prepare Triphala water for eye washing:
Mix: Take one teaspoon of high-quality, organic Triphala powder and mix it with a glass of water.
Soak: Allow the mixture to sit overnight.
Strain: In the morning, filter the solution using a fine cloth or coffee filter to remove all particles.
Use: Gently wash your eyes with the strained water. You may pour a few drops into each eye using an eyecup for better application.
Precautions to Consider
When using Triphala water for eye care, it’s crucial to proceed with caution to avoid potential discomfort or harm. Dr Rajput provides key recommendations:
- Quality Matters: Always use organic, high-quality Triphala powder to ensure safety. Contaminants or low-grade ingredients can irritate the eyes.
- Sterility: Use sterilised or boiled and cooled water to prepare the solution, minimising the risk of infections.
- Proper Straining: Ensure no particles remain in the liquid, as these could scratch the cornea.
- Patch Test: Before applying the solution to your eyes, test it on your forearm to check for any adverse reactions.
- Consult an Expert: If you have pre-existing eye conditions, are pregnant, or are taking medications affecting your eyes, consult an Ayurvedic expert or an ophthalmologist before incorporating this practice.
- Monitor Reactions: Discontinue use immediately if you notice redness, swelling, or discomfort, and seek medical advice.
Why Make It a Habit?
A 2021 study stated that the modern lifestyle often leads to excessive screen time, which can strain the eyes and contribute to dryness and fatigue. Incorporating Triphala water into your daily routine provides a natural, gentle way to counter these effects and maintain long-term eye health.
Special Considerations for Children
Children, with their developing bodies, require extra care. Dr Rajput advises parents to consult both a paediatrician and a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner before using Triphala water for eye care in children. This ensures the practice is safe and tailored to their specific needs.
A Holistic Approach to Eye Care
While Triphala water can work wonders, it’s not a standalone solution. Regular check-ups with an eye care professional are essential, even if you experience improvements. Additionally, adopting a balanced diet rich in Vitamin A, reducing screen time, and ensuring adequate sleep will further enhance your eye health.
Conclusion
Dr Rajput concludes, "By integrating this simple yet effective practice into your daily routine, you can help maintain your eye health naturally, leveraging the wisdom of Ayurveda." Washing your eyes with Triphala water every morning is one such practice, blending simplicity and efficacy. By adhering to precautions and consulting experts when needed, you can incorporate this timeless remedy into your routine and enjoy its myriad benefits.