The Number One Eye Remedy

Our eyes filter and absorb an endless stream of visual stimuli day after day. We often take them for granted, but when we strain them the pain can be acute.

According to ayurveda, the eyes are a seat of the pitta dosha (the fire principle), and most eye problems result from a pitta imbalance. If you have pitta-type eyes (medium in size; either light blue, light gray, light green, or hazel in color; and characterized by an intense luster), your chances for eye irritation and strain are higher than people who don’t. And if you’re around 40, you’re also more susceptible to eye problems because alochaka pitta (a subtype of pitta that governs vision) tends to decrease at that time. Stress, overwork, anger, anxiety, alcohol, spicy food, pollution, and bright, direct sunlight will also increase your risk for eye irritation.