Eye Infections During Monsoon: Ayurvedic Care for Children's Eyes

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.

Common Eye Infections During Monsoon

Ayurvedic Perspective on Eye Infections

Preventing Eye Infections with Ayurvedic Care

Proper HygieneEnsure that children wash their hands frequently with soap and water to prevent the spread of infections. Use separate towels for each child to avoid cross-contamination. Additionally, use eye wipes regularly to maintain cleanliness and hygiene around the eyes.

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.