Squint (Strabismus)
Strabismus from the point of view of Ayurveda
Squint or strabismus is a condition in which the eyes do not align properly. One eye moves inwards, upwards, downwards, or outwards, while the other one focuses at a different spot. This is usually due to the extraocular muscles, which control the movement of the eye and the eyelid, are not working together.
It can also happen because of a brain disorder that causes the eyes to miss coordinate.
There are different types of strabismus. They can be described by the way the eye moves:
- Hypertropia — is when the eye turns upwards.
- Hypotropia — is when the eye turns downwards.
- Esotropia — is when the eye turns inwards.
- Exotropia — is when the eye turns outwards.
If left untreated, it can cause amblyopia, or “lazy eye,” in which the brain starts ignoring input from one of the eyes.
Squint correction does not happen on its own, and treatment must begin as soon as possible for best chances of improvement.
Ayurvedic eye treatment is based on the removal of toxins from our minds and bodies. The squint treatment in Ayurveda also restores the balance of the three doshas — Vata, Pitta, and Kapha.
How Ayurvedic doctors treat strabismus
Ayurvedic strabismus treatment uses a variety of herbal medicines and therapies, depending on the age, health, and type of the squint.
Ayurvedic strabismus treatment aims is to improve eye muscle strength through eye exercises and a nourishing and balanced diet. Ayurvedic eye treatments are powerful and effective for vision correction.
Ayurvedic doctors can prescribe the following therapies:
- Nethradhara — this process includes washing the eyes with freshly prepared medicated decoctions for strengthening the muscles.
- Netra Basti — the eyes are washed to remove any engorged secretion. A dough dam is built around the eye and a warm medicated ghee is slowly poured into the dam, bringing calm and nourishment to the eyes – this procedure is used to reduce eye stress.
- Netra Tarpana — a mixture made of flour, pasted around both eyes, then medicines poured onto it such that the medicine does not spill from the dough that is set around the eyes.
During consultation, an Ayurvedic doctor may recommend Panchakarma therapy, which can be combined with other Ayurvedic herbs and yoga exercises for effective eye correction.
Tips for effective Ayurvedic treatment of strabismus
- Put 2 drops of ghee in the eyes at bedtime
- Add berries and citrus fruits in your diet
- Do eye exercises regularly
- Practice yoga and pranayama
Check the Ayurvedic treatment for other ophthalmology diseases:
Cataract, Conjunctivitis, Stye, Glaucoma, Myopia, Ophthalmology, Diabetic Retinopathy, Macular degeneration, Astigmatism, Hyperopia, Dry eye, Keratoconus, Pinguecula, Presbyopia, Eye allergies, Eye infections, Eye twitching, Eye floaters, Night blindness, Pterygium, Optic neuropathy.
