Ayurvedic Boon for Eyes: ‘Bidalika’ Helps Improve Vision and Relieve Eye Pain

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): In today’s fast-paced lifestyle, excessive use of mobile phones, laptops, and desktop screens has led to a rise in eye-related problems. Issues such as eye strain, pain, irritation, and redness have become common. To address these concerns, India’s Ministry of AYUSH highlights an effective Ayurvedic therapy known as Bidalika, which is considered beneficial for maintaining eye health.

According to Ayurvedic experts, Bidalika (also called Bidalak) is a traditional eye care procedure that nourishes and protects the eyes while helping to enhance vision. It is part of Ayurveda’s Kriyakalpa therapy. In this method, a medicinal paste prepared from specific herbs is applied to the outer surface of the eyes, excluding the eyelids. The paste is spread in a fixed thickness and kept for a prescribed duration before being gently removed.

Bidalika is primarily used to reduce eye pain, swelling, and inflammation. It provides a cooling effect and helps calm aggravated Pitta dosha. The therapy is known to be helpful in conditions such as stye (Anjananamika), conjunctivitis, and blepharitis. It also aids in reducing burning sensation, redness, eye fatigue, and sensitivity to light (photophobia).

Ayurvedic practitioners state that regular Bidalika therapy can support better vision, help manage refractive errors, and keep the eyes strong and healthy. It is also considered useful in inflammatory eye conditions like dacryocystitis and hordeolum. Since the application works directly on the affected area, relief is often felt quickly.

Several studies have found Bidalika to be effective in bacterial conjunctivitis and other eye disorders. However, experts strongly advise that this therapy should always be performed under the supervision of a qualified Ayurvedic doctor. Self-treatment should be avoided. Bidalika should not be used in cases of eye injuries, open wounds, or serious conditions such as glaucoma or retinal disorders. After the procedure, adequate eye rest is recommended, and exposure to bright light or screens should be minimized.