Cataract is the loss of clarity that is developed in the crystalline eye lens. It varies in its level from trivial to total cloudiness and hindrance in the course of light. In an elderly person, the lens power can be increased in an initial stage of cataract. This is called myopia or issues of near-sightedness.

Gradually, the lens begins yellowing and impenetrability of the eye lens trims down the perspicacity of blue color. The development of cataract is very slow leading to vision loss and have the power of blindness, if left untreated. It normally affects both the eyes, but mostly only one eye gets affected before the other.

The early stage of opacity in the eye lens of an elderly person is called a senile cataract, whose characteristics are subsequent enlargement of the lens and ultimate shrinking with total loss of clearness. As the time passes the outer layer of the cataract dissolves and forms a cloudy white fluid and this phase is called Morgagnian cataract. In this stage, there is severe tenderness, if the cataract bursts and leaks. If the cataract is left unattended then it has the ability to cause phacomorphic glaucoma.

As the cataract gets advanced the weak ciliary zonule (the ring of firm fibers that links ciliary body and eye lens) can be dislodged subsequently. Such natural subsequent dislodging was called couching (cataract surgery that was done in ancient times) that is removing the opacity.

In some rare cases, children also suffer from cataracts before or soon after birth called congenital cataracts. These are treated in a different way compared to cataracts in adults.

Since treatment and its outcome depend on the severity of the individual's cataract, optometrists place more importance on prevention of cataracts. Cataract prevention through Ayurveda suggests that the people, who are moving towards middle-age, must attempt to take diet that is loaded with Beta-carotene, Vitamin E and C, Zinc, Lutein and Zeaxanthin. An ayurvedic doctor recommends natural way of maintaining or enhancing eye health.

Cataract prevention through ayurveda recommends that certain factors that are related for the contribution of cataract including toxins, exposure to sunlight, diet habits and other lifestyles must be taken into consideration. Always wear a protective eyewear or sunglasses. Limit your self from exposure to sunrays to avert the cataracts from deteriorating. Excessive alcohol consumption and smoking is also very injurious to eyes and may make things worse. Restraining from milk products is also a positive way of preventing the worsening of cataract

Cataract Prevention through Ayurveda treatment deals with the vayu dosha. Pure ghee that is prepared from cow's milk is very effective in curing all types of eye disorders as per ayurveda medications.

Triphala caters sustenance to the nerves and tissues of the eye. Maha Triphala Ghrita is prepared from blending Triphala and ghee made from cow's milk. This powder has to be mixed with lukewarm water and consumed 60 minutes before lunch and dinner.

Triphala water is effective for eye issues and also helps to cure constipation. In the initial stages it gives fast result. Best preparation time of Triphala water is evening. One tbsp of Triphala powder must be added to a tumbler of water. Cover this tumbler with clean white cloth for maximum 12 hours. Early in the morning, wring and strain the water with the covered white cloth and use this filtered water to wash your eyes. Some of the water must also be consumed.