Journal of Ayurveda and Integrated Medical Sciences

2025 Volume 10 Number 9 September
Publisherwww.maharshicharaka.in

The Role of Ayurveda in Avoidable Blindness

Hamsaveni V1*, Bindushree SB2, Aloni K3
DOI:10.21760/jaims.10.9.21

1* Hamsaveni V, Professor, Department of Shalakya Tantra, Shri Kalabyraveshwaraswamy Ayurvedic Medical College Hospital and Research Center, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India.

2 Bindushree SB, Post Graduate Scholar, Department of PG studies in Shalakya Tantra, Shri Kalabyraveshwaraswamy Ayurvedic Medical College Hospital and Research Center, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India.

3 Kasturi Aloni, Post Graduate Scholar, Department of PG studies in Shalakya Tantra, Shri Kalabyraveshwaraswamy Ayurvedic Medical College Hospital and Research Center, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India.

Blindness, as defined by the World Health Organization (WHO), and adopted by the National Programme for Control of Blindness (NPCB) in India, is a significant public health concern. Conditions such as Vitamin A deficiency in children, cataracts, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration (ARMD) and various ocular injuries are major contributors. Despite the high prevalence, notably with India housing one-third of the world's blind population, up to 80% of blindness is preventable or treatable. Ayurveda, particularly through Shalakya Tantra, emphasizes the importance of eye care and offers a holistic approach to preventing blindness. This article reviews the role of Ayurvedic principles in managing key eye diseases, drawing from classical texts and contemporary medical literature. The study highlights the potential of Ayurvedic practices in preventing avoidable blindness, advocating for their integration into modern ophthalmic care to enhance both preventive and therapeutic outcomes.

Keywords: Blindness, Kriya Kalpa, Timira, Nayanabhighata, Adhimantha

Corresponding Author How to Cite this Article To Browse
Hamsaveni V, Professor, Department of Shalakya Tantra, Shri Kalabyraveshwaraswamy Ayurvedic Medical College Hospital and Research Center, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India.
Email:
Hamsaveni V, Bindushree SB, Aloni K, The Role of Ayurveda in Avoidable Blindness. J Ayu Int Med Sci. 2025;10(9):139-145.
Available From
https://jaims.in/jaims/article/view/4697/

Manuscript Received Review Round 1 Review Round 2 Review Round 3 Accepted
2025-07-16 2025-07-28 2025-08-08 2025-08-18 2025-08-28
Conflict of Interest Funding Ethical Approval Plagiarism X-checker Note
None Nil Not required 10.36

© 2025 by Hamsaveni V, Bindushree SB, Aloni K and Published by Maharshi Charaka Ayurveda Organization. This is an Open Access article licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ unported [CC BY 4.0].

Download PDFBack To ArticleIntroductionObjectives of the studyMaterials and MethodsDiscussionConclusionReferences

Introduction

The World Health Organization (WHO) defines blindness as having a visual acuity of less than 3/60 (Snellen) or its equivalent, including the inability to count fingers in daylight at 3 meters and a visual field of less than 10 degrees. The National Programme for Control of Blindness (NPCB) in India adopts these criteria and highlights conditions like Vitamin A deficiency in children, Cataracts, Glaucoma, and Diabetic retinopathy in middle age, and Age-related macular degeneration (ARMD) in older adults as significant causes. Blindness is often preventable or treatable through timely interventions, such as surgical procedures for cataracts. Estimates indicate that one out of every three blind people in the world lives in India, with around 15 million blind individuals. Annually, 3 million people in India develop cataracts, and the country has about 2 million blind children, with only 5% receiving education. Additionally, between 25-33% of individuals over 65 experience functional vision loss, with 65-70% of the legally blind being over 65. Notably, up to 80% of blindness is curable or preventable.

Ayurveda, particularly through its branch of Shalakya Tantra, stresses the importance of eye care. It aims to maintain health and cure diseases in individuals. Ancient Ayurvedic texts emphasize that vision is crucial, providing over 90% of human knowledge. Ayurveda recommends continuous efforts to protect eyesight, noting that without vision, even the wealthy find life dark and meaningless.1 This article focuses on key eye diseases such as cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, childhood blindness, ARMD, and refractive errors, and explores how Ayurvedic practices can help in preventing blindness.

Objectives of the study

The primary aim of this study is to conduct a literary review on the different preventive measures mentioned in Ayurveda to prevent avoidable blindness.

Materials and Methods

This study involved a comprehensive review of various Ayurvedic texts and Contemporary textbooks on ophthalmology, medical journals,

and published articles were also studied to extract and explain all relevant points pertaining to the prevention of avoidable blindness.

Preventable Ocular Disorders and Ayurvedic Perspective

1. Cataract is a major cause of visual impairment, responsible for 50% of global blindness and affecting 17.7 million people. In India, it accounts for 80% of blindness. Key risk factors include UV exposure, diabetes, hypertension, BMI, drug usage, smoking, socioeconomic factors, and aging. Cataract, an opacity in the lens, often results from decreased Na+/K+ ATPase concentration, leading to water imbibition in lens fibres. There are no effective preventive drugs, but early-stage treatments include iodide salts of calcium and potassium, vitamin E, and aspirin. Cataract surgery is recommended in advanced stages.

2. Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a significant complication of diabetes mellitus (DM) and a leading cause of vision loss among diabetics. The likelihood of developing DR increases with the duration of diabetes: within 10 years, 20% of type 1 and 25% of type 2 diabetics develop retinopathy; these percentages rise to 90% for type 1 and 60% for type 2 after 20 years, and to 95% for both types after 30 years. DR primarily affects small blood vessels in the eye, leading to microvascular occlusion and leakage. Ayurveda correlates DR with Madhumehajanya Timira. Preventive and treatment measures include screening, managing diabetes, laser photocoagulation, intravitreal anti-VEGF drugs, intravitreal steroids, and surgical interventions. However, lost vision cannot be restored.

3. Age-related macular degeneration (ARMD), also known as senile macular degeneration, is prevalent in people over 65 years old, with around 200 million affected globally, a number expected to rise to nearly 300 million by 2040. Research indicates that ARMD and age-related cataracts develop due to oxidative stress.

Preventive and treatment measures specially recommended is AREDS 2, include taking 500 mg of vitamin C, 400 mg of vitamin E, 10 mg of lutein, 12 mg of zeaxanthin, 25-50 mg of zinc, and 2 mg of copper. Additional measures include quitting smoking, avoiding excessive sunlight exposure, and regularly consuming oily fish and green leafy vegetables.


4. Childhood blindness_

is predominantly caused by vitamin A deficiency in developing countries, affecting around 1.5 million children globally. Each year, approximately 500,000 children go blind due to this deficiency. Preventive measures include vitamin A supplements given at 9 months (100,000 IU), 18 months (200,000 IU), and 2 years of age (200,000 IU). Dietary sources of vitamin A include plant-based carotenes (carrots, legumes, nuts, seeds, spinach, pomegranate) and animal-based retinols (milk products, animal liver).

5. Refractive errors, such as myopia, hypermetropia, and astigmatism, are frequently observed among school-going children, with about 15% affected by myopia. Treatments for these conditions include the use of concave lenses for myopia, convex lenses for hypermetropia, and cylindrical lenses for astigmatism. Preventative measures involve maintaining visual hygiene, adopting a proper reading posture, ensuring adequate lighting, using clear print materials, avoiding continuous reading at night, minimizing excessive near work, and limiting the use of electronic devices.

While contemporary ophthalmology offers palliative management to prevent blindness from the disorders mentioned above, Ayurveda provides a complementary approach by comparing these diseases with the Lakshanas of Timira and its types. Integrating Ayurvedic treatments with modern practices can offer a holistic approach to eye care and prevention of avoidable blindness.

Timira

Timira is identified in Ayurvedic classics as a significant vision-impairing disorder and is categorized under Drishtigata Rogas (diseases affecting vision). It serves as a broad term encompassing various ocular conditions marked primarily by blurred or diminished vision.

Phrase “Timi Kledane Aardri Bhavaha” suggests an abnormal increase in moisture within the ocular structures. If not addressed in time, Timira can progress gradually - from initial stages of visual disturbance i.e., Timira, to the development of Kacha, and ultimately to Linganasha, which signifies complete loss of vision. According to Acharya Vagbhata, the management of Timira is primarily based on the predominance of the vitiated Doshas.

A multidimensional treatment protocol is adopted, incorporating both Shodhana (bio-purificatory) and Shamana (palliative) therapies. The therapeutic modalities include Snehana (oleation), Swedana (sudation), Raktamokshana (bloodletting), Virechana (purgation), Nasya (nasal therapy), Anjana (collyrium), Basti (medicated enema), Tarpana (nourishing eye therapy), Lepa (topical application), and Seka (eye irrigation).[2]

Snehapana, Nasya, and Tarpana serve as primarily therapeutic approaches in the early stages of Timira. These treatments involve the use of specifically formulated medicated ghee preparations including: Purana Ghrita, Triphala Ghrita, Mahatriphala Ghrita, Jivantyadi Ghrita, Drakshadi Ghrita, and Patoladi Ghrita, used due to their Chakshushya and Rasayana properties.

Raktamokshana (Bloodletting)

Indicated particularly in Prathama and Dwitiyapatala-gata Timira. It is performed on the Bhruupari (area above the eyebrows) or Lalata (forehead) after prior administration of Snehanaand Swedana (sudation therapy).

Virechana (purgation)

Dosha - Specific purgation is used:

  • Vataja Timira: Castor Oil with Milk
  • Pittaja Timira: Go-Ghrita with Triphala, Sharkara, Ela, Trivrit Churna with Honey
  • Kaphaja Timira: Decoctions of Trivrit or A Combination of Puga, Abhaya, Shunti, Pippali, Trivrit and

Nasya (Nasal Therapy)

Especially effective during the initial stages when symptoms are localized and have not affected the entire eye, Nasya is typically combined with Virechana and Basti in more advanced cases.

Basti Karma

Both Niruhabasti (decoction enema) and Anuvasanabasti (oil enema), especially those mentioned in Vataja Peenasa treatment like Madhutailika Basti and Sthiradi Niruha Basti, are beneficial for Timira management.

Aschyotana (Eye Drops)

An early-stage intervention useful before significant Dosha vitiation.


Anjana (Collyrium)

Indicated in the Nirama Avastha. Examples include Kusumika Varti Anjana, Drushtiprada Varti Anjana, and Chandrodaya Varti Anjana.

Tarpana (Ocular Rejuvenation)

Using medicated ghee preparations like Triphalaghrita, Mahatriphalaghrita, Patoladighrita, and Drakshadighrita helps nourish and rejuvenate ocular tissues.

Role of Triphala in Timira

Triphala plays a pivotal role in Timira management.

For Vataja Timira : Combined with Taila (oil)

For Pittaja and Raktaja Timira : Taken with ghee

For Kaphaja Timira : Mixed with honey, A combination of Triphala, Yashtimadhu, and Madhu taken at bedtime for a month improves vision.[3]

Internal administration can include combinations with Anupamamsa Supa, Saktu, Go-Ghrita (stored in an iron vessel), Draksha, Sharkara, Madhu, or even Bhasma of Suvarna (gold), Rajata (silver), or Loha (iron) with ghee and honey. Regular intake of Triphala with Ghrita enhances absorption and efficacy,[4] especially when taken with Tapya or Ayaschurna, stored in black gram for a month before use.

It can also be combined with Mridwika, Sharkara, or Madhuand taken over a month to promote healthy vision and prevent progression of Timira.

Rasayana Therapy

Rasayana Yogas such as Triphalaghrita, Chyavanaprasha, Amalaki Rasayana, Haritakyadi Rasayana, Lohadi Rasayana, and Saptamrita Loha are used.

Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

Includes intake of Ghrita, Mudga, Triphala, Amalaki, Shatavari, Yava, Patola, Payasa with Ksheera and Ghrita, vegetables like Patola, Karkotaka, Vartaka, Tarkari, Karira, and Shigru. According to Chakradatta: Sprinkling cold water over the eyes while holding water in the mouth is said to provide immediate relief from Timira. Additionally, placing moistened palms over the eyes after rubbing them post-meal is believed to be effective in alleviating symptoms.[5]

6. Glaucoma

another leading cause of blindness globally, accounting for approximately 15% of all cases, with around 600,000 people affected annually. It is a chronic, progressive optic neuropathy characterized by damage to the optic nerve, primarily due to raised intraocular pressure (IOP) caused by excessive aqueous secretion or obstruction to aqueous outflow. Primary open-angle glaucoma, the most common type, affects individuals over 40 and is often asymptomatic until significant visual field loss occurs, highlighting the need for regular eye examinations. Early detection and treatment, including lowering IOP through medications and surgical interventions, are crucial to prevent blindness, as vision loss from glaucoma is irreversible. Patients should avoid activities that strain the eyes, such as observing minute objects for prolonged periods or working in dim light. Clinical features of Adhimantha in Ayurveda correlate with glaucoma.

General line of treatment of Adhimantha

Table 2: Management of Adhimantha based on Avastha.

Purva Rupa AvasthaSamavastha ChikithsaNirama Avastha Chikithsa
Tikshna Shirovirechana.
Tikshna Gandusha.
Dhumapana.
Upavasa.
Lepa.
Avaguntana.
Sechana.

Note - Tikshna Shirovirechana, Gandusha, Dhumapana, Upavasa is contraindicated in Vatajaadhimantha
Langhana - for 4 days.
Seka.
Bashpasweda.
Intake of Madhura Ahara and Tiktaahara.
Lepa or Alepa.
Dhumapana.
As soon as Niramavastha is acquired after treating the Purvarupavastha and Samavastha, general and local Dosha Shodhana and Shamana is performed.

Snehana.
Svedana.
Siravyadha at forehead or Apanga.
Shiro Basti.
Nasya.
Dhumapana.

Adhimantha, categorized under Sarvagata Netrarogas (disorders involving the entire eye), is a serious condition that can lead to rapid vision loss if proper therapeutic and lifestyle guidelines are not followed. The rate of vision impairment varies based on the Doshic type: in Kaphaja Adhimantha, vision may be lost within seven nights; in Raktaja, within five nights; in Vataja, within six nights; and in Pittaja Adhimantha, complete vision loss can occur within a single day.


This highlights the critical need for timely and appropriate Ayurvedic intervention to prevent swift ocular deterioration.

7. Ocular trauma is a leading cause of severe ocular morbidity, with over 2 million cases reported annually, including over 40,000 resulting in significant vision loss. In India, over 500 lakh people suffer from blindness, with the blind population increasing by 38 lakhs each year; 1.2% of these cases are due to avoidable ocular injuries.

Types of ocular injuries include blunt trauma, penetrating injuries, perforating injuries, ocular foreign bodies, and non-mechanical injuries.

Prophylactic measures include advising industrial and agricultural workers to use special guards or protective glasses, using Crooker’s glass to protect welding workers and cinema operators from infrared and UV rays, and immediate irrigation with clean water in case of chemical injuries.

In Ayurveda, ocular injuries are described under the heading Nayanabhighata. Nayanabhighata refers to ocular trauma resulting from both physical and psychological factors.

Ayurvedic texts describe several causative factors, including the use of potent collyrium, exposure to environmental elements such as strong wind, sunlight, fumes, and dust, insect bites, water-related activities, nocturnal wakefulness, and emotional disturbances like fear and grief.[6,7]

The treatment protocol is based on the severity of the condition. For mild injuries, gentle fomentation using Aasya Bhashpa is recommended. In more severe cases, therapeutic measures include Parisheka (eye irrigation), Lepa (herbal pastes), Aschyotana (instillation of medicated drops), Tarpana, and Nasya using drugs that are Snigdha (unctuous), Sheeta (cooling), and of Madhura Rasa (sweet taste), all of which pacify aggravated Doshas.

In cases of Atipraviṣṭa Netra (displacement or protrusion of the eyeball), techniques to reposition the eye within the orbital cavity (Akshi kosha) are advised.

These include respiratory maneuvers, induction of vomiting, sneezing, and even controlled manual techniques under expert supervision. Kriya Kalpa therapies such as Seka (stream pouring),

Bidalaka (application of pastes over closed eyelids) using drugs like Triphala, Yaṣhṭimadhu, and Lodhra, and Pindi/Kavalika (poultices) with Shigru, Bhringaraja, and Lodhra are also employed.[8,9,10]

Ayurvedic preventive measures in Swastha

Pragnaparadha - (knowingly committing mistakes) indulging in harmful activities which are not conducive to ocular health - Satvavajaya chikitsa

Parinama - timely changes occurring in ocular tissues - Kriyakalpa and Rasayana therapies

Asathmya Indriyartha Samyoga - Atiyoga, Ayoga and Mithyayoga of Chakshur Indriya.

A wise person should strive for abstaining from the above 3

Dinacharya

  • Netra Prakshalana or with Toyapurnamukha
  • Regular application of Souviranjana and application of Rasanjana once in 7 days as eyes always have a threat from Shleshma
  • Dhoomapana - Kaphahara
  • Pratimarsha Nasya - Drushti Prasadana
  • Abhyanga, Padabhyanga, Padatra Dharana, Chatra Dharana - Chakshushya
  • Snana - Sarvendriya Prabodhana and Chakshushya

Rutucharya

During Adana Kala - limit out door time, wearing good quality sun glasses, maintaining hydration, try to keep the eyes moist by using Snigdha, Madhura Dravyas

During Visarga Kala - Avoid exposure to dust storms, wearing protective glasses from air born allergies.

Vegadharana

Adhovata, Pureesha, Mutra, Kshuda, Kshavathu, Nidra, Bhashpa, Chardi and Jrumbha, Veghadharana should be avoided by an individual aspirant of good healthy vision.

Chakshushya Ahara

Acharya Charaka has explained Aahara Varga in Suthrasthana 27th chapter & Bhavamishra also explained in Bhavaprakasha is given in Table 3.


Table 3: Chakshushya Ahara

Haritakyadi VargaGuduchyadi VargaDhanya Varga
AmalakiJivantiShukadhanya-
VibhitakiShobanjanaYava
HaritakiNirgundiRaktashali
YashtimadhuShatavariShimbi Dhanya
LodhraKumariMudga
Saindava LavanaPunarnava
Bhringaraja
Shaka VargaDhatu VargaPhala Varga
MulakaVangaKadali
A/C Yoga RathnakaraYashadaDadima
JeevanthiLohaDraksha
VasthukaSuvarna Makshika
MatsyakshiKapardika
MeghanadaShanka
PunarnavaRathna
Dugdha VargaGhritaKritanna Varga
Go DugdhaGo GhritaMamsa Rasa
Hasthi DugdhaAja Ghrita
Stree StanyaAvika Ghrita
Ksheerotha Ghrita
Koumba Ghrita
Manushi Ghrita

Regularly one should practice Kriyakalpa procedures - particularly Tarpana, Putapaka, Aschyotana and Anjana. Studies have shown that regular practice of eye exercises, Yogasana, such as Surya Namaskara, Shavasana, Nadi Shodana, Pranayama and Trataka play a major role in promoting eye health.

Manasika Chikitsa

Chakshushyopanishad quotes Mantra to chant regul-arly for protection of eye sight & cure eye diseases.

Acharya Vagbhata emphasizes Manaso Nivṛutti - withdrawing the mind from unpleasant visual stimuli - and avoiding emotional extremes like Krodha (anger) and Shoka (grief), which is a key component of Manasika Chikitsa.

Discussion

The topic of avoidable blindness emphasizes mainly the prevention of ocular disease, the reduction of visual impairment, and the promotion of ocular health. Major population-based surveys estimate the magnitude and causes of blindness, reporting that blindness in India is significant not only due to its vast prevalence but also because,

its causes are preventable and curable with the current available knowledge and skills. Eye-promoting regimens delay degenerative processes in the retina and focal points while nourishing visual structures. Hence, Ayurvedic measures are found to be effective in eye care. In the modern lifestyle, reduced activity, sedentary habits, and increasing weight gain contribute to the development of metabolic syndrome, indirectly affecting the vital organs of the eye. Studies report that people with an active lifestyle are 70% less likely to develop neovascular AMD compared to those without an active lifestyle. One must follow Dinacharya, Rutucharya, Kriyakalpa, and other measures correctly and strive for Samyakyoga of actions. When these regimens are performed at a very early stage of possible Dosha Dhatu and Agni vitiation, vision can be reverted to normalcy.

Conclusion

Blindness is poised to become a significant challenge in the future. Ayurveda places a strong emphasis on prevention rather than cure. Delaying treatment for visual impairment often leads to complications and irreversible vision loss. The fundamental principles of Ayurveda play a crucial role in promoting and restoring vision. Kriyakalpa procedures prevent the aging effects in the eyes, rejuvenate them, and improve their functionality. Ensuring good quality vision allows individuals with visual impairments to lead fulfilling lives and achieve their goals. The verse from Charaka Samhita underscores the importance of eyesight by stating that even if a person is endowed with sensory faculties, strength, and beauty, without eyesight, they are as incapacitated as an insect.[11]

References

1. Navre KRS. Ashtanga Hridayam of Vaghbhata, with Arunadatta’s Sarvangasundara and Hemadri’s Ayurvedarasayana. Sutrasthana 16/29. Varanasi: Krishnadas Academy; 2000. Reprint edition [Crossref][PubMed][Google Scholar]

2. Navre KRS. Ashtanga Hridayam of Vaghbhata, with Arunadatta’s Sarvangasundara and Hemadri’s Ayurvedarasayana. Uttarasthana 13/47. Varanasi: Krishnadas Academy; 2000. Reprint edition [Crossref][PubMed][Google Scholar]


3. Navre KRS. Ashtanga Hridayam of Vaghbhata, with Arunadatta’s Sarvangasundara and Hemadri’s Ayurvedarasayana. Sutrasthana 8/44. Varanasi: Krishnadas Academy; 2000. Reprint edition [Crossref][PubMed][Google Scholar]

4. Suresh Babu MS. Chakradatta (English translation). Chapter 59, Verse 104. Varanasi: Chaukhamba Krishnadas Academy; 2012. p. 602, 573 [Crossref][PubMed][Google Scholar]

5. Suresh Babu MS. Chakradatta (English translation). Chapter 59, Verses 97–98. Varanasi: Chaukhamba Krishnadas Academy; 2012. p. 602, 573 [Crossref][PubMed][Google Scholar]

6. Acharya NR. Sushruta Samhita with Sri Dalhanacharya Teeka. Uttartantra 18/3. Varanasi: Chaukhamba Orientalia; 2009. Reprint edition. p. 824, 641 [Crossref][PubMed][Google Scholar]

7. Sharma S, editor. Ashtanga Sangraha of Vriddhavagbhata with Shashilekha Sanskrit commentary by Indu. Sutrasthana 33/28. Varanasi: Chaukhamba Sanskrit Series Office; pp. 964, 712 [Crossref][PubMed][Google Scholar]

8. Acharya VJT. Sushruta Samhita of Sushruta with Nibandhasangraha commentary of Sri Dalhanacharya. Uttaratantra 19/3,5,7. Varanasi: Chaukhamba Orientalia; 2009. Reprint edition. p. 724, 640–641 [Crossref][PubMed][Google Scholar]

9. Prabhakara Rao G. Chakradatta (English translation). Chapter 59, Verses 155–156. Varanasi: Chaukhamba Orientalia; 2014. p. 825, 567–568 [Crossref][PubMed][Google Scholar]

10. Sen GD. Bhaishajyaratnavali, edited with Siddhiprada Hindi Commentary. Chapter 64. Varanasi: Chaukhamba Surbharati Prakashan; pp. 1196, 987–988 [Crossref][PubMed][Google Scholar]

11. Acharya VJT. Charaka Samhita of Agnivesha with Chakrapani Datta’s Ayurveda Deepika. Sutrasthana 8/9. Varanasi: Chaukambha Sanskrit Sansthan; 2001. Fifth edition [Crossref][PubMed][Google Scholar]

Disclaimer / Publisher's Note: The statements, opinions and data contained in all publications are solely those of the individual author(s) and contributor(s) and not of Journals and/or the editor(s). Journals and/or the editor(s) disclaim responsibility for any injury to people or property resulting from any ideas, methods, instructions or products referred to in the content.