ROLE OF TRATAKA AND NETRA PRAKSHALANA WITH AAMLAKI KWATHA IN THE MANAGEMENT OF MYOPIA: AN AYURVEDIC REVIEW

Myopia or short sightedness is that dioptric condition of the eye in which parallel rays of lightfrom infinity come to a focus in front of the retina when accommodation is at rest. Primary symptom of myopia is blurred vision for distance the eyes. Myopia is a rapidly increasing refractive disorder characterized by defective distant vision due to axial elongation or refractive imbalance of the eyeball. Conventional management primarily focuses on optical correction without addressing functional ocular health. Contemporary management primarily includes corrective lenses and refractive surgery, which do not address the underlying functional disturbances. Ayurveda correlates myopia with the early stage of Timira, involving vitiation of Doshas affecting Drishti. Classical texts emphasize preventive and therapeutic measures for maintaining ocular health, including Trataka and Netra Prakshalana. Aamlaki, described as Chakshushya and Rasayana, is considered beneficial for vision. This review explores classical Ayurvedic references and the probable mechanisms of Trataka and Netra Prakshalana with Aamlaki Kwatha in the management of myopia. These interventions may serve as safe, non-invasive adjunctive approaches for improving ocular function and visual comfort.