Ayurvedic Daily Routine: Dinacharya Certification Course, Section 12, Lecture 92
Introduction
Anjan (also known as Kajal or collyrium) is an ancient Ayurvedic eye-care remedy known for its cooling and cleansing properties. However, as beneficial as it is, there are certain conditions when applying Anjan can do more harm than good. Ayurveda emphasizes the balance of bodily energies—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha—so using Anjan at the wrong time can disturb this balance and lead to discomfort or even serious eye issues.
In this blog, we’ll explore when you should avoid applying Anjan and why it matters, all while keeping things light and easy to understand!
1. After Intense Physical Activity
Feeling exhausted after a workout or a long day of physical labor? You might want to skip applying Anjan!
Why?
- Exercise generates heat in the body, including the eyes, which are naturally sensitive to heat due to their connection with Pitta Dosha.
- Anjan can further irritate tired eyes, leading to discomfort, itching, or even temporary vision issues.
Pro Tip:
Give your body time to cool down before using Anjan. A cold compress or splashing water on your face can help relax your eyes!
2. When Experiencing Severe Bloating (Udawarta)
Bloating isn’t just a digestive issue—it can also affect your eyes! Chronic bloating (not just the occasional full stomach) signals an imbalance in Vata Dosha, which can interfere with Anjan’s benefits.
Why?
- Vata imbalance leads to abnormal upward movement of air and fluids in the body, causing dryness and irritation in the eyes.
- Using Anjan during this state might intensify discomfort instead of relieving it.
3. After Crying
Ever noticed how your eyes feel sore after crying? That’s because crying temporarily weakens the eyes and increases inflammation.
Why?
- Crying strains the delicate eye tissues and increases Pitta Dosha, which Anjan can aggravate.
- Applying Anjan immediately after crying may cause burning, irritation, and redness.
Pro Tip:
Let your eyes rest before using Anjan. A few deep breaths and cool water splashes can help reduce post-crying eye fatigue.
4. When Feeling Angry or Emotionally Distressed
If you’re angry, stressed, or highly emotional, Anjan is a no-go!
Why?
- Anger and stress generate heat inside the body, increasing Pitta Dosha.
- This heat can cause irritation in the eyes, making Anjan feel uncomfortable rather than soothing.
Pro Tip:
Calm down before applying Anjan! Try meditation, deep breathing, or a short walk to relax.
5. After Consuming Alcohol
Enjoyed a few drinks? Hold off on the Anjan.
Why?
- Alcohol increases body heat and Pitta Dosha, leading to dehydration, redness, and irritation in the eyes.
- Applying Anjan after drinking may make your eyes feel drier and more sensitive.
Alternative:
Drink plenty of water and let your body rehydrate before applying Anjan!
6. When Feeling Scared or Anxious
Fear triggers the fight-or-flight response, causing stress and bodily imbalances.
Why?
- The nervous system responds by increasing heart rate and blood flow, making the eyes more sensitive.
- Applying Anjan in this state can cause irritation or discomfort.
7. When You Have a Fever
Feeling under the weather? Skip the Anjan.
Why?
- Fevers indicate the presence of toxins in the body.
- Anjan may trap these toxins in the eye area, worsening symptoms like redness, swelling, and irritation.
Pro Tip:
Focus on recovery first—rest, hydrate, and take Ayurvedic remedies before resuming Anjan use.
8. If You Are Suppressing Natural Urges (Vegavarod)
Holding in your sneeze, ignoring hunger, or delaying bathroom breaks? Bad idea—and not just for your digestion!
Why?
- Suppressing natural bodily urges tires the body and leads to imbalances in Vata Dosha.
- Using Anjan in this state may not work effectively and could even cause discomfort.
Solution:
Listen to your body! Let natural urges flow before applying Anjan.
9. If You Have a Severe Head Disorder
Suffer from migraines, sinusitis, or chronic headaches? You might want to avoid Anjan.
Why?
- Headaches often indicate imbalances in Vata and Pitta Dosha.
- Applying Anjan in this state might intensify the pain and cause dizziness.
10. After Long Exposure to Wind, Smoke, or Dust
Been on a windy road trip or exposed to pollution? Wait before using Anjan.
Why?
- Wind and dust dry out the eyes, making them extra sensitive.
- Ancient texts warn that applying Anjan after dust exposure could increase the risk of glaucoma.
Pro Tip:
Wash your face and blink rapidly for a minute to moisten your eyes naturally before applying Anjan.
11. After Eating Cooling Foods
Had ice cream or coconut water? Hold off on Anjan!
Why?
- Cold foods increase Kapha Dosha, which can dull the effect of Anjan and create excess moisture in the eyes.
- This might cause heaviness and discomfort.
Solution:
Wait at least 30 minutes before applying Anjan after consuming cooling foods.
12. Before Sunrise
According to Ayurveda, the time before sunrise is dominated by Vata Dosha.
Why?
- Applying Anjan during this period might disturb the natural balance of energies in your eyes.
- It’s best to wait until after sunrise when the body is more stable.
13. After Using Nasal Medication
Planning on using Anjan right after applying nasal drops or inhalers? Not a great idea!
Why?
- Nasal medications directly impact the sinuses and eyes.
- Applying Anjan too soon might interfere with their absorption and effectiveness.
Pro Tip:
Wait 20-25 minutes after taking nasal medication before using Anjan.
Final Thoughts
Ayurveda is all about balance, and the same applies to Anjan! While it can be highly beneficial, using it at the wrong time can cause discomfort or even long-term eye issues.
So, next time you reach for that Anjan stick, take a moment to check in with your body. Are you tired? Have you just eaten? Been exposed to dust? If yes, give it some time before applying.
Your eyes will thank you for it!
Ritucharya 
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