In modern society, our eyes frequently face long-term tests from computer screens, mobile phones, and books, resulting in problems such as dry eyes, eye soreness, and blurred vision. From the perspective of traditional Chinese medicine, these symptoms not only indicate discomfort on the surface of the eyes but also reflect the possible deficiency of essence and blood in the body. When liver blood is insufficient, the eyes lack nourishment, leading to various discomforts. So, how can we use the wisdom of traditional Chinese medicine to supplement essence and blood through differential diagnosis and treatment to rejuvenate the brilliance of the eyes?
Symptoms of insufficient essence and blood in the eyes include persistent dryness after prolonged visual use, occasional blurring of vision when viewing objects (especially in dim environments), easily feeling eye fatigue and soreness, deepening of eye bags, and the appearance of dark circles, all of which may be signals of poor blood circulation.
Traditional Chinese medicine recommends five strategies to nourish essence and blood:
1. Dietary therapy for eye care: Traditional Chinese medicine emphasizes the “unity of medicine and food,” utilizing foods such as black sesame seeds, pig liver, goji berries, red dates, and longan to gently nourish the eyes. Simple dishes like goji berry pig liver soup or longan red date tea can nourish the eyes while enjoying delicious flavors.
2. Regular daily routine: Ensure to sleep before 11 p.m., as this is considered the golden period for nourishing the liver blood according to traditional Chinese medicine. Every 45 minutes of visual use, take appropriate breaks, stay away from electronic screens, and allow the eyes to relax.
3. Chinese herbal medicine regimen: For severe essence and blood deficiency, consult a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner for prescriptions such as Jingwu capsules, Mingmu Dihuang pills, which can strengthen the liver and kidneys from the root, improve the eye conditions, but must be used according to the doctor’s instructions.
4. Acupressure massage: Regularly massaging the Yuyao points (depressions between the eyebrows) and Guangming points (5 inches above the outer ankle on the outside of the lower leg) can effectively relieve eye fatigue and promote blood circulation.
5. Mental adjustment: Emotional management is equally important because “anger harms the liver.” Maintaining inner peace through meditation, Tai Chi, or yoga is another way to nourish essence and blood.
In addition, simple daily eye care exercises such as eye ball rotations, focal changes, and palm eye compressions can effectively reduce eye pressure and enhance eye vitality.
In conclusion, maintaining eye health is the window to a beautiful world. By applying the above methods, let your eyes radiate with youthful energy and enjoy the colorful world.
