Shalakya Tantra-Netra
Shalakya Tantra – Netra Chikitsa (Eye Care) is a significant component of Ayurveda, focusing on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of eye disorders. This branch emphasizes maintaining the health of the eyes, managing diseases through herbal remedies, therapies, and surgical procedures, and enhancing vision through rejuvenative practices.
Key Principles of Shalakya Tantra for Eye Health (Netra Raksha)
1. Holistic Approach
- Eye health is seen as interconnected with overall body health and mental well-being.
- Balancing the three doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha) is central to treatment.
2. Preventive Care
- Daily practices such as applying Anjana (collyrium), using herbal eye washes, and consuming a nourishing diet.
3. Therapeutic Interventions
- Tailored treatments involving herbs, external applications, and detoxification therapies like Netra Tarpana.
Therapies for Eye Care in Shalakya Tantra
1. Netra Tarpana
- What It Is: A rejuvenation therapy where medicated ghee is held in a dough boundary around the eyes.
- Benefits: Improves vision, reduces dryness, and strengthens ocular muscles.
2. Aschyotana (Eye Drops)
- Herbal eye drops used for infections, inflammation, and fatigue.
- Common herbs: Triphala, Tulsi, and Rose water.
3. Anjana (Collyrium)
- Application of medicated paste or powders to cleanse and strengthen the eyes.
- Preventive Anjana: Daily use for maintaining eye health.
- Curative Anjana: For specific diseases like conjunctivitis and cataracts.
4. Nasya (Nasal Therapy)
- Medicated oils or powders administered through the nostrils to alleviate eye conditions.
- Benefits: Improves blood flow to the head and eyes.
5. Pindi and Vidalaka
- Pindi: Application of herbal poultices over the eyes to soothe and reduce inflammation.
- Vidalaka: Application of medicated paste around the eyes for conditions like swelling or pain.