Corneal Opacityaccording to TCM

What is Corneal Opacity?

Corneal opacity refers to the loss of transparency in the cornea, the eye's clear, protective outer layer. This condition results in cloudy or hazy vision, as light struggles to penetrate the eye efficiently. Causes range from inflammation and scarring to infection and congenital factors.

Symptoms include blurred vision and the appearance of cloudy spots or nebulae on the cornea. Understanding the underlying cause is crucial for effective treatment, as corneal opacity can lead to significant vision impairment if not addressed properly.

How does TCM view Corneal Opacity?

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), corneal opacity is viewed through the lens of systemic imbalance. The eyes are closely linked to the Liver, and conditions affecting vision often indicate a disturbance in Liver health.

Additionally, TCM considers factors like Heat, Wind, and Blood Stagnation as potential underlying causes. Treatment in TCM focuses on restoring balance through herbal medicine, acupuncture, and dietary adjustments, addressing both the symptoms and their root causes.

Causes of Corneal Opacity According to TCM

TCM identifies several patterns that may contribute to corneal opacity. Liver-Heat, characterized by excessive Heat in the Liver, can manifest as eye problems including opacity. This pattern is often treated with herbs that clear Liver Heat and improve vision.

Another common pattern involves Blood Stagnation, where the normal flow of Blood is impeded, affecting eye health. This condition might be treated with herbs that invigorate the Blood and remove Stagnation. Understanding these patterns is crucial for TCM practitioners to provide targeted, effective treatment.

Acupoints for Corneal Opacity

Acupuncture, another key component of TCM, involves stimulating specific points to treat various conditions, including corneal opacity. Zanzhu BL-2, located at the medial extremity of the eyebrow, is a significant point for eye conditions.

This acupoint is known to expel Wind-Heat from the face, subdue Liver Yang Rising, and benefit the eyes, making it a valuable choice for addressing corneal opacity. The selection of acupoints is tailored to each patient's unique pattern of disharmony, as per TCM principles.

See more details below about Zanzhu BL-2, an acupoint used to address corneal opacity.

Zanzhu BL-2

On the medial extremity of the eyebrow, or on the supraorbital notch.

TCM Herbs for Corneal Opacity

Herbal medicine is a cornerstone of TCM treatment for corneal opacity. Herbs like Buddleia Flowers and Climbing Groundsel Herbs are used to clear Heat and resolve Damp-Heat dermatological disorders, often linked to vision problems.

Motherwort Fruits and Scarab Grubs are chosen for their ability to invigorate Blood and address Blood Stagnation, a common cause of eye issues. Puncture vine fruits, known for pacifying Internal Liver Wind, are also used. The selection of herbs depends on the individual's specific TCM diagnosis, ensuring a personalized treatment approach.