How Traditional Chinese Medicine Supports Eye Health and Vision

Traditional Chinese Medicine states that clear vision depends on the strength of the Liver, Kidney, and Spleen systems. These organ networks supply Blood, Essence, and circulation to the eyes. When these resources weaken or stagnate, symptoms such as dryness, floaters, light sensitivity, and blurred vision appear. Acupuncture therapy, herbal medicine, nutrition, and lifestyle adjustments restore balance and support long-term eye function.

Good vision allows us to work, connect, and move through life with ease. Many people only notice their eyes when discomfort appears, yet most visual symptoms develop from deeper internal patterns. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the eyes are viewed as an extension of Liver Blood, Kidney Essence, and the quality of Qi circulation throughout the body.

This holistic model guides our acupuncturists to evaluate not only what the eyes feel like today but also why strain, glare sensitivity, or dryness have been building over time. By identifying and addressing root imbalances, TCM offers a pathway for clearer, more comfortable vision at every age.

Key Takeaways

• TCM links vision to the Liver, Kidney, and Spleen systems, which supply Blood, Essence, and nourishment to the eyes.
• Pattern diagnosis in TCM explains why symptoms vary, including dryness, floaters, blurred vision, and night blindness.
• The Five-Wheel Theory connects eye anatomy to organ networks, helping practitioners identify the root cause of visual changes.
• Acupuncture therapy, customized herbal formulas, nutrition, and lifestyle strategies strengthen circulation and support vision.
• Lifelong prevention starts early, and TCM provides tools to protect eyesight across every decade of life.

How TCM Understands Eye Health: The Core Model

In the TCM framework, the eyes are described as “the opening of the Liver,” meaning that Liver Blood nourishes ocular structures. Healthy circulation allows the eyes to stay moist, flexible, and responsive to changes in light.

The Kidney system supports the retina and optic nerve through Essence, which relates to growth, aging, and genetic factors. As Kidney Essence declines with age, the eyes become more vulnerable to fatigue, dryness, and slow visual adaptation.

The Spleen system influences eyelids, fluids, and the clarity of focus through its role in transforming nutrients into energy and Blood.

These networks work together. When one weakens, the entire visual system feels stressed. This is why TCM practitioners evaluate digestion, sleep, stress patterns, and hormonal changes alongside direct eye symptoms.

The Major TCM Patterns Behind Eye Symptoms

Liver Blood Deficiency

Liver Blood nourishes the eyes. When it becomes insufficient, the eyes lack lubrication and nourishment.

• Common signs: blurry vision, night blindness, floaters, dryness, difficulty focusing after long screen use, brittle nails, fatigue.
• Why it happens: chronic overwork, poor sleep, excessive screen exposure, long-term stress, inadequate nutrition.
• Modern parallel: reduced microcirculation to retinal tissues.

Liver Qi Stagnation

When stress, frustration, or emotional tension constrains Liver Qi, circulation around the eyes becomes sluggish.

• Common signs: eye pressure, headaches behind the eyes, intermittent blurring, irritability, PMS symptoms.
• Bridge: this pattern often precedes heat accumulation that leads to redness or irritative symptoms.

Liver Yang Rising

If stagnant Liver Qi transforms into heat, it rises toward the head.

• Common signs: eye redness, light sensitivity, migraine-type headaches, irritability, pulsing pain around the temples.
• Modern overlap: vascular tension and inflammation.

Kidney Yin Deficiency

Kidney Yin nourishes the optic nerve and supports night vision.

• Common signs: chronic dry eyes, dizziness, tinnitus, heat sensations, early aging of vision, worsening symptoms at night.
• Bridge: this pattern underlies many degenerative eye changes with age.

Spleen Qi Deficiency

Weak Spleen Qi allows dampness to accumulate around the eyes.

• Common signs: droopy eyelids, puffiness, heavy vision, foggy clarity, digestive weakness.
• Mechanism: inadequate transformation of nutrients affects Blood production, which leads to subtle vision fatigue.

Five-Wheel Theory and Eye Diagnosis

In TCM, the Five-Wheel Theory is used to categorize eye disorders based on their connection to the five Zang organs:

• Blood Wheel (Heart)—related to the conjunctiva and blood vessels in the eyes; imbalances may cause redness, irritation, or bleeding.
• Qi Wheel (Lung)—governs the cornea and sclera; dryness and cloudy vision may indicate a deficiency in Lung Qi.
• Wind Wheel (Liver)—controls the iris; Liver imbalances can result in poor adaptation to light, blurred vision, or floaters.
• Water Wheel (Kidney)—linked to the pupil; deficiencies may lead to night blindness, cataracts, or vision loss.
• Flesh Wheel (Spleen)—associated with the eyelids; weak Spleen Qi may contribute to droopy eyelids, puffiness, or infections.

This diagnostic framework helps TCM practitioners tailor treatments to address not only the symptoms but also the root causes of eye disorders.

What Causes Eye Imbalances in TCM

Various lifestyle and environmental factors can disrupt the liver’s ability to nourish the eyes, including:

• Prolonged screen exposure without rest
• Irregular sleep patterns that reduce blood production
• Nutrient-deficient diets lacking liver-supportive foods
• Chronic stress and emotional strain leading to stagnation
• Overwork or exhaustion depleting Liver Blood

When these stressors accumulate, the flow of Qi and blood to the eyes is compromised, resulting in visual discomfort and fatigue.

TCM Treatments That Support Eye Health

Acupuncture Therapy

At ACA Acupuncture & Wellness, acupuncture therapy plays a central role in supporting eye health. Precise point combinations improve microcirculation, relax extraocular muscles, and support the optic nerve. 

Commonly used points include:

• BL 1 Jingming
• GB 20 Fengchi
• LI 4 Hegu
• ST 36 Zusanli
• Taiyang

Treatments also calm the nervous system, which reduces stress patterns that affect the Liver. Recommended frequency depends on the pattern. Acute symptoms respond well to weekly sessions. Chronic or degenerative conditions often require more regular visits at first, followed by maintenance care.

Herbal Formulas 

TCM utilizes various herbal formulas to nourish the eyes and address specific conditions:

• Mingjing granule—protects retinal pigment epithelial (hRPE) cells from damage and enhances phagocytosis.
• HB01 formula—reduces choroidal neovascularization (CNV) and hemorrhaging, improving visual acuity.
• Chi-Ju-Di-Huang-Wan—used for dry eye disease (DED) to stabilize tear film and decrease corneal epithelial cell degeneration.
• Qiming granule—extends tear film break-up time, enhances tear secretion, and repairs corneal damage.
• Modified Ming Mu Di Huang decoction—used for retinitis pigmentosa (RP), protecting photoreceptor cells and delaying disease progression.
• Bai Ji Li (Tribulus terrestris)—improves overall vision clarity and relieves eye redness.
• Gou Qi Zi (Goji berries)—a well-known TCM herb that strengthens the Liver and benefits the eyes.
• Ju Hua (Chrysanthemum flower)—clears heat and detoxifies the Liver, reducing eye strain and irritation.
• Long Yan Rou (Longan fruit)—enhances blood circulation to the eyes and prevents vision fatigue.

Dietary Therapy

A balanced diet that supports liver function is essential for maintaining clear vision. Foods beneficial for eye health in TCM include:

• Dark leafy greens (spinach, kale, bok choy)—rich in lutein and zeaxanthin, protecting against age-related vision decline.
• Goji berries (Lycium barbarum)—a well-known blood and Yin tonic that enhances vision and reduces oxidative stress.
• Egg yolks—contain essential nutrients like vitamin A, which prevents night blindness.
• Eels and lamb’s liver—considered highly nourishing for Liver Blood and vision.
• Mulberries and wolfberries—help nourish the Blood and prevent degenerative eye diseases.
• Red amaranth and Gynura bicolor—support healthy circulation to the eyes.
• Blueberries and grapes—contain antioxidants that protect retinal cells from damage.
• Black wood ear mushrooms—promote better blood circulation and prevent dryness in the eyes.
• Carrots and sweet potatoes—high in beta-carotene, which is converted into vitamin A for eye health.

Acupressure for Eye Health

Massaging specific acupressure points can relieve eye strain and improve circulation to the eye muscles. Effective points include:

• Taiyang (Sun point)—relieves headaches and eye fatigue.
• BL-2 (Zanzhu)—reduces eye puffiness and tension around the brows.
• ST-1 (Chengqi)—stimulates blood flow to the eyes and prevents dryness.
• LV-3 (Taichong)—soothes Liver Qi stagnation, reducing eye redness and discomfort.

Lifestyle Adjustments to Protect Vision

TCM encourages daily habits that help maintain healthy Liver Blood flow and eye nourishment:
✔ Take regular screen breaks to reduce strain
✔ Incorporate eye massages to stimulate circulation
✔ Get consistent sleep to allow blood replenishment
✔ Manage stress through breathwork or meditation

TCM for Specific Eye Conditions

Dry Eye Disease

Dry Eye Disease often reflects Yin deficiency, Liver Blood deficiency, or internal heat. At ACA Acupuncture & Wellness, we evaluate which pattern is creating the dryness rather than treating the symptom alone.

TCM signs: burning, grittiness, dryness that worsens late in the day, difficulty sustaining focus.

Supportive therapies:

• Chi Ju Di Huang Wan for Yin and Liver nourishment
• Qiming granule to stabilize tear film
• Mai Men Dong to moisten dryness
• Acupuncture to improve tear secretion and circulation

Patients typically notice improved comfort, fewer fluctuations in clarity, and better moisture retention over time.

Eye Floaters

Floaters are viewed as a sign of stagnation or deficiency affecting circulation to the retina.

TCM patterns:

• Liver Blood deficiency
• Liver Qi stagnation
• Kidney Yin deficiency
• Blood stasis in chronic cases

Supportive therapies:

• Herbal formulas that invigorate Blood and nourish Liver Yin
• Acupuncture around head, neck, and lower legs to improve circulation
• Dietary support to strengthen Blood production

Floaters rarely disappear entirely, but many patients experience fewer visual disturbances and improved stability.

Night Blindness

Night blindness often signals weak Liver Blood or Kidney Essence.

TCM signs: poor adaptation to dim environments, difficulty driving at night, chronic visual fatigue.

Supportive therapies:

• Blood tonics such as Gou Qi Zi and Dang Gui
• Essence-supporting herbs like Nu Zhen Zi and Shu Di Huang
• Acupuncture to improve retinal circulation

Strengthening the Liver and Kidney helps restore the clarity needed for nighttime environments.

Macular Degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) reflects long-term deficiency of Kidney Essence and Liver Blood.

Mechanisms in TCM:

• Declining Essence weakens retinal resilience
• Poor circulation reduces nourishment to photoreceptors
• Chronic dryness undermines tissue integrity

Common formulas:

• Shi Hu Ye Guang Wan
• Schisandra (Wu Wei Zi)
• Ligustrum lucidum (Nu Zhen Zi)

Acupuncture therapy is used to support microcirculation, decrease inflammation, and preserve visual function. While AMD cannot be reversed, our patients often report improved comfort, reduced strain, and slower progression when combining TCM with standard medical care.

Retinitis Pigmentosa

Retinitis pigmentosa is associated with deep Kidney and Liver deficiencies that affect photoreceptor function.

TCM signs: tunnel vision, progressive night blindness, slow visual processing.

Supportive therapies:

• Modified Ming Mu Di Huang decoction
• Cornus fruit (Shan Zhu Yu) for Liver and Kidney support
• Goji berry for photoreceptor nourishment
• Acupuncture to enhance peripheral circulation

TCM aims to preserve remaining vision, strengthen retinal health, and slow further decline.

Risks of Ignoring Eye Health in TCM

Neglecting eye health can lead to progressive vision decline and chronic discomfort. TCM emphasizes early prevention to maintain long-term clarity and function.

Potential Consequences:

• Chronic Eye Strain – Excessive screen time and stress weaken Liver Qi and Blood, causing fatigue, headaches, and blurred vision.
• Degenerative Eye Conditions – Deficiencies in Liver and Kidney function contribute to macular degeneration, cataracts, and glaucoma.
• Dry Eyes & Inflammation – Poor circulation leads to irritation, light sensitivity, and redness.
• Night Vision Loss – Weak Liver Blood reduces adaptation to darkness, affecting night driving and brightness adjustments.
• Floaters & Visual Disturbances – Poor blood flow causes visual specks, flashes, and instability.

At What Age Should Eye Care Begin?

TCM promotes lifelong prevention, as vision issues develop gradually.

• Ages 5 to 18: Protection against digital eye strain, myopia progression, and stress-related patterns.
• Ages 18 to 40: Support for dryness, headaches, and fatigue caused by work, travel, or stress.
• Ages 40 to 60: Strengthening Liver and Kidney systems to slow age-related degeneration.
• 60 and above: Nourishing Yin and Blood to preserve clarity, moisture, and comfort.

Early prevention creates a stronger foundation for long-term eye health.

How ACA Acupuncture & Wellness Supports Eye Health

At ACA Acupuncture & Wellness, we combine traditional diagnostic frameworks with modern understanding of eye strain, inflammation, and circulation. Our acupuncturists evaluate the whole body, identify the patterns creating visual symptoms, and build a personalized plan that may include:

• Acupuncture therapy
• Customized herbal formulas
• Nutrition tailored to TCM patterns
• Acupressure instruction
• Stress and lifestyle guidance

Our goal is to restore the internal balance that supports the eyes so vision can remain clear, stable, and comfortable. Patients often come to us after standard treatments provide temporary relief but fail to address the deeper cause. By strengthening the Liver, nourishing the Kidney, and improving Qi and Blood circulation, TCM helps protect vision for the long term.

The TCM Approach to Lifelong Eye Health

Traditional Chinese Medicine offers a complete framework for understanding and supporting eye health. By identifying the patterns affecting circulation, nourishment, and fluid balance, TCM provides treatment strategies that complement modern eye care. At ACA Acupuncture & Wellness, we help patients strengthen the internal systems that sustain vision so they can experience greater clarity, comfort, and confidence at every stage of life.

FAQs

What does Chinese medicine say about eye problems?

Traditional Chinese medicine explains eye problems as imbalances in Liver Blood, Kidney Essence, or Qi circulation. When these networks weaken or stagnate, symptoms like dryness, floaters, blurriness, or redness appear. Treatment focuses on restoring internal balance rather than only relieving surface discomfort.

What organ is connected to the eyes in Chinese medicine?

The Liver is the primary organ connected to the eyes in TCM because it stores Blood and sends nourishment upward. The Kidney also influences vision through Essence, especially for aging or degenerative issues. The Spleen supports eyelids and overall clarity by helping produce Blood.

What is the ritual to improve eyesight?

A common TCM ritual includes warm eye compresses, gentle acupressure around the brow and temples, and slow blinking exercises to relax the extraocular muscles. These practices improve circulation, reduce strain, and support lubrication. Many people combine them with breathing techniques to calm Liver Qi.

What is the Chinese theory of the eyes?

TCM describes the eyes as “the opening of the Liver,” meaning vision depends on the quality of Liver Blood and circulation. The Five-Wheel Theory maps different eye structures to organ networks like the Heart, Lung, Liver, Kidney, and Spleen. This model helps practitioners diagnose the root pattern behind visual symptoms.

What helps restore vision naturally?

Natural vision support in TCM focuses on nourishing Liver Blood and Kidney Essence through acupuncture, herbal formulas, and pattern-based nutrition. Eye exercises and acupressure improve circulation around the orbit. Stress reduction and proper sleep complete the foundation for long-term eye comfort and clarity.

What emotions are behind dry eyes?

Dry eyes often reflect emotional patterns linked to Liver Qi stagnation, which is influenced by frustration or long-term stress. When this tension restricts circulation, lubrication decreases and the eyes feel irritated. Over time, exhaustion can weaken Yin, making dryness more persistent.