Cataract: Integrating Ayurvedic Wisdom with AI Innovations in Eye Care

Cataract is a condition characterized by clouding of the natural lens of the eye and is a leading cause of vision impairment globally. it happens gradually, often due to ageing.

While modern medicine primarily treats cataracts through surgical removal, Ayurveda offers holistic approaches that aim to prevent, manage, and slow down the progression of lens opacity.

 In Ayurveda, cataract corresponds to “Timira”, which arises due to an imbalance in the doshas, particularly Vata and Pitta, affecting the eyes’ clarity and function. 

Early signs of Cataract are:

blurred vision,

difficulty in night vision, and

 glare sensitivity.

Ayurvedic management of cataracts focuses on both internal and external therapies. 

Internal treatment in Ayurveda

Herbs that are rich in antioxidants and have soothing properties can support eye health. Some commonly used herbs are Tulsi, Trifala, Giloy and Shatavari.

Netra Tarpana Specific decoctions and medicated ghee are applied in the eye to nourish ocular tissues. 

External treatment in Ayurveda

This involves eye washes with herbal extracts like 

Amla (Emblica officinalis)

Neem (Azadirachta indica)

Bhringraj (Eclipta alba)

Yashtimadhu (Glycirrhiza glabra) 

 Oil made from Clarified butter, Rose petals, Ginkgo biloba etc.

Panchakarma procedures like Virechana (therapeutic purgation) and Nasya (nasal administration of medicated oils) are believed to balance systemic doshas, indirectly benefiting the eyes.

ANU TAILAM is one such preparation for sustaining vision.

How AI help in cataract detection and management?

 AI-driven imaging systems from retinal scans can

• detect early lens opacity,
• Predict disease progression, and 
•  Assist in personalized treatment planning. 

Platforms using AI can analyse thousands of ocular images in seconds, helping ophthalmologists identify cataracts that may not yet produce noticeable symptoms. 

This fusion of ancient Ayurvedic preventive practices with modern AI diagnostics offers a promising holistic approach to eye health, enabling early intervention and better patient outcomes.

By combining the time-tested wisdom of Ayurveda with cutting-edge AI technology, patients can benefit from both preventive care and precision diagnostics. Regular Ayurvedic eye care routines, along with AI-assisted screenings, create a comprehensive strategy that addresses the root cause while monitoring progression efficiently. This integrated approach holds the potential not only to manage cataracts more effectively but also to reduce dependence on invasive procedures, enhancing quality of life for individuals across all age groups.

stay tuned to Holistic Decode.

 Dr Purnima M