How to Fix Astigmatism Naturally

Written by Institute for Natural Medicine Staff

Medically Reviewed by Signe Poquette, ND

Published December 17, 2024
Last Updated December 17, 2024

Astigmatism is a condition where the cornea or lens of the eye is irregularly shaped. Although no eye is perfectly round, an astigmatic eye is more curved and elongated, taking on a football-like appearance. Uncorrected astigmatism can cause blurred vision, impaired depth perception, eye strain, and headaches.¹ People with astigmatism may find it difficult to read or drive at night.

What causes astigmatism?

Often mistaken for amblyopia (lazy eye), astigmatism is a distinct condition that commonly occurs alongside other vision issues, like myopia (nearsightedness) or hyperopia (farsightedness).² Certain conditions, such as keratoconus and dry eye, can worsen astigmatism.³

“An estimated 30 percent of the population has astigmatism, but I feel the percentage is much higher,” says Edward Kondrot, MD, a renowned homeopathic ophthalmologist and founder of Healing the Eye & Wellness Center in Tampa, Florida, and Scottsdale, Arizona. “In my experience, it’s rare to find an eye that is perfectly round like a ball.”

Genetic predisposition, eye disorders, ocular surgery, and injuries can all contribute to astigmatism.⁴ Tightness in the neck is also a common culprit. According to Dr. Andy Rosenfarb, a Chinese medical neuro-ophthalmology expert and founder of AcuVision Acupuncture in Westfield, New Jersey, “Astigmatism is often due to neck tension. That neck tension pulls on the cranium and can cause an imbalance of the six muscles that move the eye, which can eventually distort [its] shape.”

Treatment options for astigmatic eyes

Treating astigmatism requires a comprehensive strategy that may include:

Healthy dietary habits
Eye exercises
Stress reduction techniques
Acupuncture
Supplements
Homeopathic remedies
Conventional therapies such as corrective lenses or surgery

Conventional therapies

Traditional ophthalmology typically characterizes astigmatism as a structural or genetic issue that can be corrected with glasses, contact lenses, or surgery. Toric lenses are specifically designed for astigmatism, and LASIK surgery is a standard refractive option.²

“While it’s true that using corrective eyeglasses, toric contact lenses, and LASIK surgery will help on a structural level, we want to know why the eye is shaped that way,” says Dr. Rosenfarb.

Natural ways to cure astigmatism

An integrative approach to managing astigmatism moves beyond corrective lenses to focus on diet, lifestyle, natural remedies, and stress management.

“Treating and reducing astigmatism using a natural approach is possible,” notes Dr. Kondrot. “The goal is to improve vision and eye function of the person with astigmatism, not necessarily change the amount of astigmatism present.”

Tailored techniques for eye health

Dr. Rosenfarb recommends strengthening eye muscles and improving blood flow to the eyes with Traditional Chinese medicine techniques. Acupuncture and acupressure trigger-point therapy can release tension in the eyes⁵^,⁶ and neck, as can Qigong eye exercises, which may help protect vision, improve ocular blood flow, and reduce eye strain.⁷

Supplements, Diet, and Exercise

From a nutritional perspective, Dr. Rosenfarb emphasizes supplements that support eye health and help manage conditions like astigmatism. Lutein, astaxanthin, and vitamin D3 are particularly beneficial, while vitamin C stands out for its ability to promote healing. A 2020 study demonstrated the effectiveness of oral vitamin C for cataract surgery patients in postoperative recovery. Taking 1,500 mg daily in three divided doses accelerated recovery and reduced the risk of developing post-surgical astigmatism.⁸

Nutrition and Vision: A Direct Connection. Dietary insufficiency has been linked to deteriorating vision, which is why whole, unprocessed foods are essential for healthy eyes. Nutrient-dense leafy greens, colorful fruits, and omega-3–rich fatty fish support ocular health and vision.⁹

Exercise and Weight Management. Regular physical activity benefits the eyes as well as the rest of the body. A healthy diet combined with exercise helps reduce obesity, a risk factor for astigmatism, particularly in younger people.¹⁰ Excess weight may affect the shape and pressure of the eye, contributing to vision issues.

Keeping Stress to a Minimum. Managing stress is crucial when caring for astigmatism, says Dr. Kondrot, who incorporates homeopathic strategies to address mental and emotional factors alongside physical symptoms.

Harnessing the power of natural light

“Natural light exposure may counterbalance too much indoor or close-up work that can cause eye strain,” says Dr. Rosenfarb. “Even on an overcast day, exposure to natural light for two to three hours may be helpful.”

Integrative eye health strategies

A well-rounded approach to eye health, integrating the benefits of conventional and natural care, is the most effective way to manage astigmatism. By embracing balanced nutrition, targeted supplementation, and regular physical activity, people can protect their eyes and vision well into older adulthood.

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Footnotes

1
Zhang J, Wu Y, Sharma B, et al. Epidemiology and burden of astigmatism: a systematic literature review. Optom Vis Sci. 2023;100(3):218-231. https://doi.org/10.1097/OPX.0000000000001998
2
Boyd K. What is astigmatism? Symptoms, causes, diagnosis, treatment. American Academy of Ophthalmology. 2024;May 10. https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/what-is-astigmatism
3
Gurnani B, Kaur K. Astigmatism. [Updated 2023 Jun 26]. In: StatPearls. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK582142
4
Zhang J, Wu Y, Sharma B, Gupta R, Jawla S, Bullimore MA. Epidemiology and burden of astigmatism: a systematic literature review. Optom Vis Sci. 2023 Mar 1;100(3):218-231. https://doi.org/10.1097/OPX.0000000000001998
5
Tang J, Pei Y, Wang J, et al. The association between Chinese eye exercises and myopia in children and adolescents: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Public Health. 2023;11. ht tps://doi.org/10.3389/fpubh.2023.950700
6
Tian FF, Liu LJ, Guo Y, et al. Effects of eye exercises on axial eye elongation in junior students. Chin J Epidemiol. 2021 Sep 10;42(9):1621-1627. https://doi.org/10.3760/cma.j.cn112338-20201118-01338
7
Kang MT, Li SM, Peng X, et al. Chinese eye exercises and myopia development in school age children: a nested case-control study. Sci Rep. 2016 Jun 22;6:28531. https://doi.org/10.1038/srep28531
8
Mohan S, Sah K, Khattri M, et al. Role of oral vitamin C on astigmatic errors in phacoemulsification. Curr Eye Res. 2020;45(10):1235-1239. 10.1080/02713683.2020.1731831
9
Cirone KL, Pur D, Malvankar-Mehta M. Overlooked dietary insufficiencies impacting visual impairment: a systematic review and meta-analysis. JFO Open Ophthalmology. 2023;3. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jfop.2023.100036
10
Nitzan I, Akavian I, Shmueli O, et al. Body mass index and astigmatism: a nationwide study. Clin Exp Ophthalmol. 2024;52(6):616-626. https://doi.org/10.1111/ceo.14406

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