Ayurvedic Treatment for Glaucoma

Ayurveda has no condition that matches glaucoma exactly. Eye diseases are described in the Netra Roga sections of classical texts, and some vision-loss descriptions are loosely compared with glaucoma. These links are an interpretive framework, and modern research on them is limited.

What Ayurvedic practice may offer

• General advice on eye care: rest, sleep, avoiding strain and keeping meals regular
• Diet and lifestyle advice for overall health and blood sugar
• Stress reduction through slow breathing and relaxation

What it cannot do

No herb, oil, eye wash or procedure has been shown to lower eye pressure safely or to reverse optic nerve damage. Glaucoma needs an ophthalmologist.

Safety cautions

• Do not put oils, herbal drops, kajal, honey or home preparations in the eyes. They can cause infection and injury.
• Avoid unregulated eye drops and any treatment that promises to cure glaucoma
• Do not stop prescribed pressure-lowering drops
• Tell your eye doctor about any herbal or Ayurvedic product you take, as some contain steroids or substances that can raise pressure
• Avoid herbal remedies for children and infants unless a paediatrician and eye specialist agree

Key point

Ayurveda can be a supportive adjunct for general wellbeing, but it does not replace pressure checks, drops, laser or surgery. Sudden eye pain, halos or is an emergency. Call 112 or 102.