Eye infections are particularly common during this season, causing discomfort and potential complications if not addressed promptly
By incorporating these Ayurvedic practices into daily routines, you can effectively protect your child’s eyes from infections during the monsoon season and promote overall eye health.
Monsoon season, with its increased humidity and proliferation of waterborne infections, poses a heightened risk to children’s eye health. This period demands extra care to protect young eyes from common infections. Ayurvedic care, rooted in ancient Indian medicine, provides a natural and holistic approach to preventing and treating eye infections in children during the monsoon. Dr Mandeep Singh Basu, Director, Dr. Basu Eye Hospital shares Ayurvedic practices that can protect your child’s eyes from these infections.
- Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the membrane covering the white part of the eye. It is often caused by bacteria, viruses, or allergens and is highly contagious.
- StyesStyes are painful red bumps that appear on the eyelid due to bacterial infection of the oil glands. Styes can cause significant discomfort and irritation.
- Allergic ReactionsDuring the monsoon season, eyes can become red, itchy, and watery due to allergens like pollen, dust, or mold, which are more prevalent.
Ayurvedic Perspective on Eye Infections
Ayurveda associates eye health with the balance of the three doshas: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. During the monsoon, Pitta dosha, which governs heat and metabolism, can become aggravated, leading to increased heat and inflammation in the eyes. Ayurvedic care focuses on maintaining the balance of the doshas through diet, lifestyle changes, and specific treatments.
Preventing Eye Infections with Ayurvedic Care
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Ayurvedic Treatments for Eye Infections
1. Turmeric and Honey PastePrepare a paste of turmeric and honey and apply it around the eyes (avoid direct contact with the eyes). This mixture helps reduce inflammation and fights infection due to its antibacterial properties.2. Aloe VeraApply fresh aloe vera gel to soothe irritation and reduce inflammation. Aloe vera has natural cooling and anti-inflammatory effects.3. Neem Leaf ExtractBoil neem leaves in water and use the water to wash the eyes. Neem has strong antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it effective in treating infections.4. Bilva (Bael) LeavesMake a decoction of Bilva leaves and use it as an eye wash. Bilva leaves help reduce eye inflammation and irritation due to their anti-inflammatory properties.
Lifestyle Tips for Maintaining Eye Health
1. Adequate SleepEnsure children get 6 to 7 hours of sleep each night to support overall eye health.2. Limit Screen TimeLimit children’s screen time on TVs, mobile phones, and computers to avoid eye strain and dryness.3. Protective EyewearEncourage the use of protective eyewear to shield eyes from dust, pollutants, and harmful UV rays.
By incorporating these Ayurvedic practices into daily routines, you can effectively protect your child’s eyes from infections during the monsoon season and promote overall eye health.