Triphala decoction is one such medicine which is widely popular and considered to be quite effective in alleviating various eye symptoms including discharge, inflammation and irritation.
Triphala decoction - Fruits of three myrobalans are collectively designated as Triphala in Ayurveda, meaning the three specific fruits put together.This formulation is included in the Ayurvedic Formulary of India and the ingredients are described in Ayurvedic pharmacopoeia. It finds vivid description in Ayurveda literature and is frequently used by practitioners inter alia in the treatment of eye diseases, particularly conjunctivitis and vision disorders. Both Kvatha (decoction) and Churna (powder) of Triphala are indicated respectively for external and internal use in eye disorders.
Triphala decoction is mainly used for washing inflamed eyes withpurulent discharge or as eye drops in controlling conjunctivitis. Apart from providing relief in inflammation-induced eye symptoms with its decongestant, anti-inflammatory and soothing effects, instillation of Triphala decoction in eyes is proven to have prophylactic value for preventing viral conjunctivitis during epidemics
Composition - Decoction of Triphala is prepared by boiling together in water the coarse powder of dried fruits of the following three medicinal plants.
Haritaki - Tannins, anthraquinones and polyphenolic compounds.
Bibhitaki - Gallic acid, tannic acid and glycosides.
Amalaki - Vitamin C, carotene, nicotinic acid, riboflavin and tannins.
Dosage form - Slightly warm, dark-brownish coloured liquid.
Therapeutic properties - Anti-inflammatory, decongestant, soothing and wound healing properties.
Indications and uses - Triphala decoction is used for washing eyes in acute and chronic infections and inflammatory diseases of eye including trachoma, where watery or purulent discharge is the main symptom. It is also recommended for oral use in various eye diseases.
Precautions and safety aspects -
(1) Due care must be taken to make and keep the decoction in a clean utensil. Do not keep the decoction uncovered and in an unhygienic place. Dipping fingers in the decoction to judge its temperature should be strictly avoided.
(2) Too hot and too cold decoctions should not be used as they may not yield the desired results.
(3) Frequency of eye wash should be determined on the basis of the severity of symptoms. It is advisable to wash the affected eye at least twice a day and for each application fresh decoction should be prepared.
(4) Warm compresses should be applied to soften and remove crusts in the eyelids, before washing the eyes. Softened crusts can be removed with cotton.
(5) Medical advice must be sought, if vision is decreased, the eye pain gets severe, the discharge is thick and frankly purulent or greenish or bloody and light sensitivity is intense.
Products that contains Triphala -
Zhandu Pancharishta
