Tharpanam Treatment center in Trivandrum

What is Tharpanam?

Tharpanam is a specialized Ayurvedic eye rejuvenation therapy designed to cleanse, nourish, and strengthen the eyes. The name comes from “Tharpana”, meaning nourishment or refreshment. In this treatment, medicated ghee is retained in a well formed around the eyes using black gram dough. Tharpanam is highly effective for improving vision, relieving eye strain, and preventing degeneration due to prolonged screen exposure or aging. It is one of the safest and most effective Ayurvedic therapies for eye care.

What are the indications?

Tharpanam is recommended for:

  • Dry, itchy, or irritated eyes
  • Eye strain from excessive screen time
  • Early-stage cataracts (as supportive care)
  • Blurred or weak vision
  • Burning sensation in the eyes
  • Eye fatigue due to reading, driving, or computer use
  • Night blindness (as a supportive therapy)
  • Glaucoma and retinal issues (with physician’s advice)
  • Prevention of age-related vision degeneration

What is the Treatment Procedure?

  • A well is formed around both eyes using black gram flour dough.
  • The patient lies in a relaxed position with eyes gently closed.
  • Lukewarm, medicated ghee is poured into the wells until it covers the eyes.
  • The patient is asked to slowly open and close the eyes periodically during the session.
  • The procedure lasts 15–30 minutes depending on the condition.
  • After the ghee is removed, a gentle eye cleansing is done.
  • A treatment course may span 5–7 days for cumulative benefits.

What are the Benefits of the Treatment?

  • Nourishes and strengthens the optic nerves and eye muscles
  • Improves visual clarity and brightness
  • Relieves dryness, itching, and irritation
  • Reduces eye strain from digital devices
  • Helps delay degenerative changes related to aging
  • Alleviates stress around the eyes and forehead
  • Supports overall eye health and sharper focus
  • Acts as a preventive care therapy for those at risk of vision problems

What are the Preventive or Lifestyle Recommendations?

To support and maintain the effects of Tharpanam:

  • Reduce excessive screen time and follow the 20-20-20 eye relaxation rule
  • Eat eye-friendly foods rich in Vitamin A, lutein, and antioxidants (like carrots, amla, spinach)
  • Practice gentle eye exercises and palming regularly
  • Avoid direct exposure to dust, smoke, and harsh light
  • Use protective eyewear in dusty or high-light environments
  • Apply Ayurvedic collyriums or eye drops as prescribed by the doctor
  • Follow a regular sleep schedule to reduce eye fatigue

Who Should Do and Who Should Not Do This Treatment?

Recommended for:

  • People with dry eyes, visual fatigue, or computer vision syndrome
  • Students, professionals, and drivers with long screen or reading hours
  • Elderly individuals with declining vision or early cataract signs
  • Individuals with a family history of eye disorders
  • Anyone interested in maintaining strong and healthy eyes

Not recommended for:

  • People with acute eye infections, redness, or discharge
  • Individuals with eye injuries, ulcers, or recent eye surgeries
  • Patients with extreme sensitivity to ghee or oil-based treatments
  • Those with active allergic conjunctivitis
  • Children under 10 unless prescribed and supervised