Varti, Netrabindu and Añjana
Ref: Government of India. The Ayurvedic Formulary of India. Part II. Section 11; Śārṅgadharasaṃhitā, Uttarakhaṇḍa, Chapter 13; Bhaiṣajyaratnāvalī, Netrarogādhikāra
Varti, Netrabindu, and Añjana are three classic Ayurvedic preparations for eye care. Varti are small medicated sticks, Netrabindu are liquid eye drops, and Añjana are fine pastes applied with a special eye rod. These formulas aim to calm irritation, improve tear flow, and support clear vision. They often contain herbs such as Triphala and minerals that are purified before use. Because they may include small amounts of metals, a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner should guide their use.
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Indications & Uses
Eye strain & digital fatigue (Netra-Śrama): Relieves burning and tiredness after long screen time.
Blurry vision or early cataract (Timira Roga): Supports clarity and strengthens optic nerves.
Eye infections & inflammation (Netra Roga): Cleans debris, reduces redness and swelling.
General eye comfort: Keeps the tear film stable and the surface lubricated.
Dosage – Internal: 1 tsp of powder mixed with warm ghee, taken in the morning.
External: A small amount of paste or 1–2 drops of liquid applied to each eye.
Vehicle – Warm ghee for internal use; honey, water, or breast milk for rubbing the Varti sticks.
Storage – Airtight glass container. Herbal-only formulas last about 1 year; mineral-based ones can be kept longer.
Important: Use only under supervision of an Ayurvedic practitioner. Do not self-treat serious eye problems.Dose – Internal: 1 tsp of powder mixed with warm ghee, taken in the morning. External: A small amount of paste or 1–2 drops of liquid applied to each eye.
Vehicle – Warm ghee for internal use; honey, water, or breast milk for rubbing the Varti sticks.
Storage – Airtight glass container. Herbal-only formulas last about 1 year; mineral-based ones can be kept longer.
Important: Use only under supervision of an Ayurvedic practitioner.How the Ingredients Work
Triphala supplies tannins, flavonoids, and vitamin C that act as antioxidants. These protect the cornea and lens from oxidative damage.
Ghee carries the herbs deep into the eye surface and forms a thin, soothing film that reduces friction.
Camphor triggers cold-sensitive nerves, creating a cooling feeling that eases burning.
Purified minerals (lead, mercury, copper) are used in very tiny, safe amounts and can have mild antimicrobial effects.
Astringent herbs such as Licorice and Tuttha help calm inflammation and lower excess eye secretions.
Together, the herbs, fats, and minerals lubricate the eye, protect it from free radicals, and gently cleanse the surface. This matches modern ideas of keeping the tear film stable and reducing ocular stress.
Classical View – “Drushtiprasādana”
Ancient texts call these formulas Drushtiprasādana, meaning they help promote clear sight. They do not correct refractive errors but support the eye’s natural function by reducing fatigue, keeping the tear layer healthy, and cleaning the surface. Regular, moderate use is traditionally recommended for maintaining long-term visual comfort.
Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Consult a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner or eye-care specialist before using any of these preparations.Ask Ayurveda. Netra Bindu: Benefits & Ayurvedic Eye Care.
Government of India. The Ayurvedic Formulary of India. Part II (First English Edition). Section 11: Varti, Netrabindu and Añjana.
Śārṅgadharasaṃhitā. Uttarakhaṇḍa, Chapter 13:119‑120.
Bhaiṣajyaratnāvalī. Netrarogādhikāra: 123‑127.
Key Ingredients
Triphala (Haritaki, Bibhitaki, Amalaki) – Antioxidant, balances the three doshas, nourishes eye tissues
Sauvīrāñjana (black antimony) – Cleanses and cools the eye surface
Karpūra (camphor) – Gives a cooling feeling, reduces burning
Yaṣṭī (licorice) – Anti-inflammatory, soothes irritation
Rasāñjana (Daruharidra extract) – Antimicrobial, helps fight infection
Tāmra Bhasma (purified copper) – Used in some formulas for chronic visual problems
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Varti, Netrabindu, and Añjana?▼
They are three types of Ayurvedic eye medicines. Varti are tiny sticks, Netrabindu are drops, and Añjana are pastes applied with a thin rod called Netra Śalākā.
How are they made?▼
Varti: powdered herbs mixed with a liquid, formed into sticks, and shade-dried.
Netrabindu: herbs dissolved in water or a decoction to form drops.
Añjana: a fine semisolid paste that may contain herbs and purified minerals.
How should I store them?▼
Keep them in an airtight glass container. Herbal-only preparations stay good for about a year; those with minerals can last longer if kept sealed.
How is Netrabindu used?▼
Usually as eye drops. Some classical protocols also advise taking a small amount of the herb powder with warm ghee internally, but only under professional guidance.
What is Nayanāmṛtāñjana?▼
It is a specific Añjana paste that contains minerals like Nāga and pigments such as Krishnañjana. It is applied with honey or water to help manage general eye disorders.
Is there a formula for conditions like Timira?▼
Yes. Nāgārjunāñjana, a Varti-based paste, is traditionally used for Timira (early cataract) and Paṭala Roga (layer-related eye disorders).
Reviewed By
Reviewed By
Syed Aman Hussain
BAMS, MD
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