Introduction:
Eye pain, whether caused by strain, dryness, or underlying health issues, is a common problem in modern times. However, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has offered remedies for such ailments for centuries. ‘Bencao Gangmu’ (Compendium of Materia Medica), one of the most comprehensive texts on herbal medicine, outlines a variety of herbs that are particularly effective for treating eye pain. In this article, we will explore these herbs, their specific benefits, dosages, and how they can be used to naturally alleviate discomfort.
Traditional Chinese Medicine Remedies for Eye Pain – Insights from Bencao Gangmu
Key Herbs for Treating Eye Pain
- Chrysanthemum (Ju Hua – 菊花)
- Dosage: 6-12 grams
- Properties: Chrysanthemum is one of the most popular TCM herbs for treating eye problems, especially eye pain caused by heat or inflammation. It cools the liver and clears heat, which directly benefits the eyes.
- How to Use: Typically brewed as a tea or added to herbal formulas to soothe eye pain and improve vision.
- Wolfberry (Gou Qi Zi – 枸杞子)
- Dosage: 6-12 grams
- Properties: Wolfberry, or Goji Berry, nourishes the liver and kidneys, which in TCM are closely linked to eye health. It helps treat eye pain associated with dryness and fatigue.
- How to Use: Commonly eaten as dried fruit or used in teas and soups for its eye-protective benefits.
- Cassia Seeds (Jue Ming Zi – 决明子)
- Dosage: 9-15 grams
- Properties: Cassia Seeds help clear heat and improve vision by relieving eye pain, redness, and swelling. They are also effective for reducing light sensitivity.
- How to Use: Usually prepared as a tea or ground into a powder to enhance its healing effects for the eyes.
- Rehmannia (Shu Di Huang – 熟地黄)
- Dosage: 9-30 grams
- Properties: Rehmannia is a potent herb used to nourish the blood and yin, supporting the health of the liver and kidneys. This herb is particularly beneficial for chronic eye pain and blurry vision caused by deficiencies in these organs.
- How to Use: Often boiled in water to make a tonic or included in various herbal prescriptions for eye problems.
- Chinese Yam (Shan Yao – 山药)
- Dosage: 9-15 grams
- Properties: Chinese Yam helps tonify the spleen and kidneys, which are essential for maintaining proper eye health in TCM. It can help alleviate eye pain caused by dryness and fatigue.
- How to Use: Frequently added to herbal formulas or cooked in soups to nourish and rejuvenate the body, especially the eyes.
Herbal Formula for Eye Pain Relief (Based on Bencao Gangmu)
Ingredients:
- Chrysanthemum (Ju Hua): 8 grams
- Wolfberry (Gou Qi Zi): 10 grams
- Cassia Seeds (Jue Ming Zi): 12 grams
- Rehmannia (Shu Di Huang): 15 grams
- Chinese Yam (Shan Yao): 10 grams
Preparation:
- Boil all the herbs in 600ml of water.
- Let the mixture simmer for 20 minutes until the water reduces to about half.
- Strain the herbs and divide the liquid into two servings.
- Drink one serving in the morning and the other in the evening for best results.
External Application for Eye Pain
For an external application, create a herbal compress by soaking a cloth in a tea made from Chrysanthemum and Cassia Seeds. Apply the compress over closed eyes for 10-15 minutes. This can help reduce inflammation and relieve discomfort, especially for those suffering from eye strain due to long hours of screen use.
Why TCM is Effective for Eye Pain
Traditional Chinese Medicine takes a holistic approach to treating eye pain by focusing on the health of the liver and kidneys, which are believed to be directly linked to eye health. By using herbs that nourish these organs and clear heat, TCM provides a natural and long-term solution to eye pain, promoting overall well-being and clearer vision.
Conclusion:
The treatments derived from ‘Bencao Gangmu’ for eye pain not only provide relief from discomfort but also work to improve overall eye health. These natural remedies, when used consistently, can prevent eye strain, inflammation, and dryness. For those seeking an alternative to modern medications, TCM offers a gentle yet powerful method for addressing eye pain.
References:
- Li Shizhen. “Compendium of Materia Medica” (Bencao Gangmu), 1596.