Eye care5 min
Triphala for Eyes: What to Know (and Why Not to Wash Eyes with It)
Triphala is traditionally called good for the eyes, and eye washes are popular online. Why washing eyes with homemade triphala water is risky and what is safer.
Why triphala is used this way
Triphala is a classic blend of three dried fruits: amla, haritaki and bibhitaki. It is best known as a gentle bowel and digestion support, taken in small amounts.
Classical texts describe triphala as chakshushya, and Triphala ghrita is used in Ayurveda for eye health, usually taken internally. Social media often suggests washing eyes with triphala water, but homemade solutions are not sterile and can cause infections, irritation or corneal damage.
Taking triphala internally as advised, eating well and getting regular eye checks are the safer route.
Ingredients
- Triphala churna or Triphala ghrita, if advised by a vaidya
How to prepare
- Ask an Ayurvedic doctor about internal use.
- Use only sterile, prescribed eye drops in the eyes.
How to use
- Get an eye check every year or two, more often with diabetes or glaucoma risk.
- Take screen breaks and blink often.
Helpful habits
- Store in an airtight jar away from steam; it clumps in moist air.
Precautions
- Never wash eyes with homemade triphala water. Seek urgent care for eye pain, redness, sudden blurred vision or flashes.
- It can loosen stools; avoid during diarrhoea and in pregnancy.
- Never put homemade liquids or herbs inside the eye. See an eye doctor for pain, redness or vision change.
- Stop if you notice itching, rash, stomach upset or any other discomfort.
Frequently asked questions
Can triphala cure cataract or glaucoma?
- No; these need an eye specialist's care.
Is Triphala ghrita safe?
- Use only under a vaidya's guidance, especially with high cholesterol.
Does triphala cause dependence?
- There is little evidence, but it is still best used in short spells, not forever.
