Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Perspective and Treatment for Dry Eye Syndrome

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), dry eye syndrome is primarily attributed to liver and kidney yin deficiency, qi and blood deficiency, internal damp heat, or wind-heat invasion. TCM believes that the health of the eyes is closely related to the functions of the liver and kidneys, as “the liver opens to the eyes,” and kidney essence nourishes the eyes. Dry eye syndrome often results from yin deficiency with internal heat, where the liver and kidney yin fluids are insufficient to sustain the eyes. Additionally, a weak spleen and stomach, leading to inadequate production of qi and blood, can also affect the nourishment of the eyes, causing dryness and discomfort.

Treatment Methods:

1. Nourishing Yin and Moistening the Eyes: For cases of liver and kidney yin deficiency, TCM commonly uses herbal formulas that nourish yin and blood, such as Qi Ju Di Huang Wan and Liu Wei Di Huang Wan, to strengthen the liver and kidneys and moisten the eyes.

2. Clearing Heat and Reducing Fire: If dry eye syndrome is accompanied by symptoms like eye redness and pain, which may be due to wind-heat invasion or liver fire flaring up, TCM may employ herbs that clear heat and detoxify, such as Long Dan Xie Gan Wan, to alleviate these symptoms.

3. Tonifying Qi and Nourishing Blood: For dry eye caused by qi and blood deficiency, TCM often uses formulas like Gui Pi Tang or Ba Zhen Tang to replenish qi and blood, enhance vitality, and improve eye health.

4. Acupuncture Therapy:
Acupuncture is a common TCM treatment for dry-eye syndrome. By stimulating specific acupoints, such as Zan Zhu, Cheng Qi, and Feng Chi, acupuncture can regulate the flow of qi and blood around the eyes and relieve symptoms.

5. Warm Compresses and Eye Massage: TCM also emphasizes using warm compresses and eye acupoint massage, such as Jing Ming and Si Bai, to promote blood circulation around the eyes, increase tear secretion, and alleviate dryness.

TCM treatment for dry eye syndrome focuses on holistic regulation, addressing both symptoms and the underlying imbalances within the body.