Seeing Clearly Part 2: How Chinese Herbs Can Help with Dry Eyes

Wait, what? Chinese herbs can help relieve or resolve dry eye syndrome. Yes, how? Read on…

Dry Eye Syndrome (DES) is becoming increasingly common, particularly in the United States. This condition arises when the eyes either fail to produce enough tears or when tears evaporate too quickly, leading to dryness, irritation, redness, and even floaters in one’s vision. Understanding the factors contributing to DES and exploring potential treatments can help individuals manage this uncomfortable condition. Here we will explore how Chinese herbal medicine can help alleviate dry eyes and improve overall eye health.

What Causes Dry Eye Syndrome?

Several factors can contribute to DES, including:

• Lack of Sleep: Insufficient rest can reduce tear production.

• Environmental Conditions: Wind, dry air, and smoke can exacerbate symptoms.

• Prolonged Screen Time: Extended periods in front of screens reduce blink frequency, leading to tear evaporation.

• Daily Stress: Stress can affect overall health, including eye health.

• Underlying Health Issues: Conditions like autoimmune diseases can impact tear production.

  
  

Managing Dry Eye Syndrome

For those grappling with DES, management often includes:

• Artificial Tears: Over-the-counter eye drops can provide temporary relief.

• Lifestyle Adjustments: Taking regular breaks from screens, staying hydrated, and improving sleep hygiene can all help.

• Alternative Treatments: Approaches like acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine have gained attention for their potential benefits.

  
  

TCM Perspective on Dry Eyes

In TCM, especially Herbal Medicine theory, dry eyes are often viewed as a symptom of an underlying pattern that causes imbalance within the body. The two most important organs responsible for eye health, especially tear secretion and eye moisture, are the liver and kidney. Common imbalances within these organs that may contribute to dry eyes include:

• Blood deficiency: Poor nourishment of the eyes due to inadequate blood quality. Possibly low blood plasma levels. About 55% of blood is made up of plasma and about 90% of that plasma consists of water.

• Yin deficiency: Insufficient fluids and moisture in the body, leading to dryness. This is often considered in TCM as a more advanced stage of blood deficiency.

• Blood stasis: Occurs when blood flow is impeded, leading to insufficient circulation of blood and yin (fluid) into the eyes, causing dryness and discomfort.

• Liver Qi stagnation: In TCM, the liver has an important role in regulating emotions and ensuring the smooth flow of Qi which can affect the eye. Also, the liver in TCM stores the blood and is connected to the eyes.

  
  

Common Chinese Herbs Used for Dry Eyes

TCM practitioners often recommend specific herbs and formulas to address the underlying imbalances causing dry eyes. Here are just some of the herbs used to make a herbal formula:

• Ju Hua (Chrysanthemum Flower) - Highly regarded in TCM for its cooling properties and ability to clear heat. Ju Hua is particularly beneficial for soothing the eyes and alleviating dryness, especially when accompanied by redness or irritation. It can help reduce inflammation and improve overall eye health. This herb is quite delicious and can be enjoyed as a cooling and refreshing tea, especially during the summer when it is hot. They even serve it as a tea in many Dim Sum restaurants which pairs well with lighter dishes such as dumplings and steamed veggies.

• Gou Qi Zi (Goji Berries) - Known for their high antioxidant content, goji berries nourish the liver and kidneys, promoting better eye health. They can help enhance tear production and reduce dryness.

• Di Gu Pi (Lycium Fruit) - This herb is traditionally used to nourish Yin and clear heat, making it beneficial for those with dry eyes caused by heat conditions.

• Wu Wei Zi (Schisandra Berry) - Rich in vitamins and minerals, Schisandra berries support liver function and enhance the body’s ability to maintain moisture, making them excellent for combating dryness.

• Jin Yin Hua (Honeysuckle Flower) - Honeysuckle has cooling properties to help clear heat and toxins from the body, which can be particularly helpful if dryness is accompanied by irritation or redness.

The Most Popular TCM Formula for Dry Eyes

Qi Ju Di Huang Wan is a well-known formula in TCM specifically designed to nourish the liver and kidneys, clear heat, and promote eye health. It includes some of the following herbs:

• Chrysanthemum Flower (Ju Hua) - Cools and soothes the eyes.

• Goji Berries (Gou Qi Zi) - Nourishes the liver and kidneys.

• Lycium Fruit (Di Gu Pi) - Supports eye health and hydration.

• Rehmannia Root (Di Huang) - Nourishes Yin and blood.

  
  

This formula is particularly effective for individuals experiencing dry eyes due to liver and kidney yin deficiency with or without heat to provide a balanced approach to restoring moisture and vitality to the eyes.

Please Read Before You Try To Buy This Formula Online:

This formula is only for dry eyes due to liver and kidney yin deficiency with or without heat. This will not work if you have a different pattern causing dry eyes such as Blood Stasis or Liver Qi Stagnation. This means you will need a different formula to address these patterns. It is important to find a licensed Chinese medicine herbalist who is skilled and knowledgeable in diagnosis, especially pulse and tongue diagnosis, and can offer high-quality herbal medicine tailored to your root cause.

Lifestyle Recommendations

In addition to herbal treatments, TCM emphasizes a balanced lifestyle to support eye health:

• Diet: Incorporate foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids (like fish and flaxseeds), leafy greens, and plenty of hydration.

• Rest: Ensure you get enough sleep and take breaks during prolonged screen use.

• Acupressure: Gentle massage around the eyes and temples can relieve tension to promote circulation.

Experience The Difference Restorative Acupuncture Can Make

Restorative Care Acupuncture & Health has an amazing success rate when treating dry eye syndrome and many other health problems using our style of acupuncture in Miami. If you or someone you know needs the amazing benefits of this amazing holistic approach, make them “aware” there is help. Contact us today to book an appointment and we will let you know what we can do for you.