One of my patients, a girl of 17, consulted me with an eye problem by the name of Pterygium (Surfer’s Eye). Her eyes were constantly red and she had growths on the conjunctiva, near the cornea. These sometimes enlarge to the point that they interfere with vision. Her previous treatments had included injections and surgery, but the problem persisted. The underlying imbalances had never been addressed.

Although I had never treated this specific condition of pterygium eye problem before I was in no doubt that the main focus of treatment needed to be the liver. Ayurveda explains that Pitta dosha, the element of fire and light, governs our eyes. When the liver is in need of detoxification Pitta is aggravated and this is often mirrored in the eyes. Many eye diseases respond well to treatment of the liver.

Examination of this patient’s eyes further revealed a deficiency of iron. The medicine which I prescribed for pterygium eye problem contained a combination of liver detoxifying herbs together with iron and liquorice. Liquorice acts like a catalyst to boost the brain hormones. She was also given Ayurvedic eye drops. I told her to expect the medicines to take up to 6 months to have the desired effect, but in fact she was well on the road to recovery within a few weeks. She did return on one or two more occasions and her improvement was maintained. Years have now passed and it would appear that the problem has not returned.

This short case history illustrates perfectly the importance of recognising outward symptoms as being an indicator of deeper problems. If these issues are not addressed, rather than merely treating the outward symptoms, the long-term implications can be serious. In an Ayurvedic consultation examination of the eyes is one of the most important diagnostic tools. The colour, size and shape of the eyes are instrumental in determining doshic balance, and eye problems can provide information regarding imbalances in virtually any organ or system of the body.

If you are suffering from Pterygium eye problem or other eye problems and need treatment, please call the Yatan Holistic Ayurvedic Centre on 1300 552 260 to discuss how Ayurvedic treatment may help.

Pterygium Signs & Symptoms

Common signs and symptoms of Pterygium include:

Redness

Dry Eyes

Irritation

Itching

Mild pain in the eyes.

Blurred vision.

If you are suffering from any of the above Pterygium symptoms, please call on 1300 552 260.

Pterygium Causes

The common causes of Pterygium include:

Overexposure of UV rays

Dust and Pollution

Prolonged exposure to screens

Irritation in eyes 

Bloodshot eyes

An underlying condition such as deficiency of minerals or liver disease.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Ayurvedic name for Pterygium?

The Ayurvedic name for Pterygium is Arma, caused by dosha imbalance.

What is the treatment of Pterygium in Ayurveda?

A pterygium treatment in Ayurveda may include identifying Pitta imbalance in the body. In addition, a holistic approach towards treating Pterygium may be suggested, such as a balanced diet, herbal medicines, dietary modifications, etc.

What is the examination of Pterygium?

An ophthalmologist typically examines Pterygium. The check-up may involve thoroughly examining the eyes and identifying symptoms such as redness, irritation, vision disturbances, or mild pain.

What is the primary cause of Pterygium?

The primary cause of Pterygium is exposure to UV rays. Other factors may include dry and dusty environments, pollen or even pollution.

What drops treat pterygium?

An ayurvedic practitioner may suggest an ayurvedic eye drop made up of herbs such as Triphala, aloe vera, and neem. These herbs are anti-inflammatory and may be beneficial in managing pterygium symptoms.

Is there Ayurvedic eye treatment?

Yes, there is an ayurvedic eye treatment to maintain the healthy and natural state of the eyes. The holistic treatment for eye care may include eye exercises, dietary changes, herbal medicines, and therapies like Netra Tarpana.

Which Ayurvedic medicine is best for retinopathy?

An Ayurvedic practitioner may recommend herbal medicines like Triphala. However, consulting with us before starting any Ayurvedic medicine is essential.

Can Pterygium be treated without surgery?

Yes. Pterygium may be treated without surgery through Ayurvedic approaches.

Which dosha causes eye problems?

An excess of Pitta in one’s body may lead to eye problems. To know your dosha type and to get a treatment for your eyes, call us on 1300 552 260.

How long does Pterygium take to heal?

The healing of Pterygium depends on its severity. However, an individual might start to experience relief from symptoms such as redness, irritation and dryness within a couple of weeks.