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Netra Tharpanam Therapy - Divyamrut Ayurcare

Tharpanam Therapy

Njavarakizhi Therapy

Tharpanam is a specialized Ayurvedic eye therapy where medicated ghee (clarified butter infused with herbs) is retained in a circular boundary around the eyes for a specific duration. This therapy is highly effective in nourishing and rejuvenating the eyes, improving vision, and treating eye disorders.
Tharpanam is particularly beneficial for Vata and Pitta-related eye conditions, such as dry eyes, eye strain, computer vision syndrome, early-stage cataracts, and optic nerve degeneration. It strengthens the ocular muscles, lubricates the eyes, and enhances clarity of vision.

Procedure of Tharpanam Therapy

  • Purva Karma (Pre-Treatment Preparation)

    The patient is asked to lie down comfortably in a supine position. A mild facial massage with medicated oil is performed to relax the eye muscles. The eyes are cleansed with herbal decoctions to remove impurities.

  • Pradhana Karma (Main Procedure)

    Black gram flour dough is prepared and shaped into a circular boundary (about 1.5–2 inches high) around both eyes. Medicated ghee is warmed to a comfortable temperature and slowly poured into the eye compartments. The patient is instructed to keep their eyes open and blink gently, allowing the ghee to penetrate and nourish the deeper eye tissues. The ghee is retained for 15–30 minutes, depending on the condition being treated. After the required duration, the ghee is carefully removed, and the eyes are wiped with a cotton pad soaked in a herbal decoction.

  • Paschat Karma (Post-Treatment Care)

    The patient is advised to rest in a dimly lit room for at least 30 minutes after the therapy. Direct exposure to bright light, screens, or dust should be avoided for a few hours. Cooling and Pitta-pacifying foods (like ghee, milk, and fresh fruits) are recommended.

Indications (When to Use Tharpanam Therapy)

  • Dry Eyes and Computer Vision Syndrome: Lubricates and hydrates the eyes.
  • Eye Strain, Fatigue, and Burning Sensation: Soothes and refreshes the eyes.
  • Early-Stage Cataracts: Helps delay progression and improves clarity.
  • Glaucoma (Increased Eye Pressure): Nourishes and strengthens the optic nerve.
  • Refractive Errors (Myopia, Hypermetropia): Enhances vision when used consistently.
  • Retinal Disorders and Optic Nerve Degeneration: Supports retinal health.
  • Conjunctivitis and Redness Due to Pitta Imbalance: Reduces inflammation and heat.

Contraindications (When to Avoid Tharpanam Therapy)

  • Active Eye Infections (Conjunctivitis, Styes, or Severe Allergies): Ghee retention may aggravate symptoms.
  • Recent Eye Surgeries (Lasik, Cataract Surgery, etc.): Requires a healing period before therapy.
  • Severe Kapha Imbalance (Watery, Sticky Eye Discharge): May worsen Kapha-related eye conditions.

Outcomes and Benefits of Tharpanam Therapy

  • Deeply Nourishes and Rejuvenates Eye Tissues: Improves overall eye health and function.
  • Improves Vision and Strengthens the Optic Nerve: Supports long-term visual clarity.
  • Reduces Dryness, Burning, and Strain: Ideal for individuals with high screen exposure.
  • Delays Progression of Degenerative Eye Diseases: Helps manage cataracts, glaucoma, etc.
  • Enhances Mental Clarity and Focus: Stimulates subtle energy centers related to vision and cognition.
Conclusion

Tharpanam is a powerful Ayurvedic eye therapy that nourishes, rejuvenates, and protects the eyes from modern lifestyle-induced strain. It is especially beneficial for individuals who spend long hours on screens, experience frequent eye fatigue, or wish to prevent age-related vision problems.