The advent of digital gadgets has brought convenience to our lives; but many of us suffer from the affects of prolonged use of these high tech electronics.
Office workers who sit and stare at the computer screen for hours at a time often suffer such problems as eye fatigue and muscle strains.
In TCM, Chrysanthemum and Lycium fruit are common herbs used for eye health because of their link to the liver organ. According to the Five Elements theory, the main physiological functions of the liver organ are for storing blood and maintaining a good unobstructed flow of qi (chi).
The liver is the main organ that affects the eye/vision because the essence of blood and its free moving qi ascends through its meridian to connect with the eyes. Thus, deficiency of liver yin/blood may lead to dry eyes, blurred vision, or poor night sight. Common formulas for liver yin/blood deficiency are, DAAN’s Good Sight Pills and Tablet Zhang Yan Ming.
When wind heat in the Liver Meridian causes redness and dryness of the eyes, teas like Xia Sang Ju Natural Herbal beverage, and Chrysanthemum with green tea are good ways to cool down the wind heat.
For those who wish to have a balanced liver yin/blood and not have to worry about wind heat in the Liver Meridian often take Qi Ju Di Huang Wan or drink Chrysanthemum Lycium fruit tea. The Chrysanthemum Lycium fruit tea is easy to make. Simply put 5-10 dried Chrysanthemum flowers with a teaspoon of Lycium fruit in a tea pot or cup, and add hot water. This drink can be enjoyed hot or cool.
Other than herbs, one easy tip to prevent eye muscle fatigue is simply ungluing one’s eyes away from the computer screen and looking outside or to the farthest distance in the office. This will help relax the eye muscles.
Muscle stiffness at the work place is often due to poor circulation from being in the same position for long periods of time. The best solution is to walk away from the computer and stretch. Trips to the water cooler and the restroom are the soundest excuse for such practices. Other less organic methods are to apply an external analgesic balm on the Gastrocnemius (calf muscle) and around the ankle to promote better circulation in the lower extremities, or on the upper back (between the scapulas) for neck and shoulder strains. We recommend Electric Medicated Balm Golden Dragon Medicated Oil.
