Cataract, a common ocular condition that happens with the opacification of the lens, is known in Ayurveda as Timira, and eventually can lead to Linganasa, or complete vision loss. And while modern medicine treats cataract primarily through surgical removal of the clouded lens, Ayurveda gives people a medical management of early and some moderate stages through treatments that are although centuries old, they still hold merit in clinical trials.

These herbal remedies and procedures aim to restore vision and halt the degeneration of the lens naturally.

Understanding Cataract in Ayurvedic terms

In Ayurvedic ophthalmology, Timira is one of the earliest stages of vision deterioration. It is described as the vitiation of Doshas in the netra-mandala, or the eye structure, and it leads to dysfunction of the retinal zone and visual perception. When not treated early, Timira may progress to Linganasa.

Cataract, in particular, is considered a Kapha-dominant Timira, where the Kapha dosha, along with medas accumulates over the lens, leading to opacity.

The treatments for early stages as mentioned in Ayurveda

Ayurvedic management of Cataract emphasises early intervention, and the treatment involves a combination of internal medicine (Aushadha), external therapies, dietary regulations, and lifestyle modifications.

And in the book ‘Holistic Health: Laws and Facts’ by Baba Ramdev and Acharya Balkrishna, the duo mentions different treatments that have been used for thousands of years to treat the condition.
Certain preparations are used for the treatment that are considered beneficial for the eyes, and these include consuming medicated ghee, and using a mix of Triphala, and other herbs that nourish ocular tissues, pacify vitiated doshas, and halt the progression of lens opacity.

There are also nasal therapies where medicated oils or powders are passed through the nose to clear the channels connecting the head and eyes.
There are also certain detox therapies that purify the doshas, especially Pitta and Kapha, and purgation therapies are used to remove vision disorders.
Ayurveda also recommends using and applying on the eyes, a paste of Copper, Triphala, conch shell dust, Kanta, and Vyosa.

When prepared into a wick and applied like Kajal below the eyes, this can help treat certain conditions of vision loss.

Apart from decoctions, herbs, and more

Ayurveda has also always advocated for lifestyle changes to treat diseases and disorders, and Cataract is no different. It is advised by people to avoid exposure to excessive heat, dust, wind, and bright lights.