Solar Eclipse: Whether it's a solar or lunar eclipse, there are often rules and regulations about not doing this or that, or your health will be affected. Let's tell you the truth.

Effect of solar eclipse on health

How Solar Eclipse Affects Human Health: The first solar eclipse of this year will occur on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, the new moon day of Phalguna. However, you won't be able to see it from the sky in India. It will be visible from South Africa, southern Argentina, and parts of Antarctica. Let us tell you how it affects your health. 

How does science view solar eclipses and health?

From a scientific perspective, a solar eclipse itself doesn't cause any harm. The real danger arises when people try to look directly at the sun without protection. Even during an eclipse, the sun's rays can damage the retina of the eyes, causing a condition called solar retinopathy and permanent vision loss. Therefore, experts always recommend using eclipse glasses or other safe methods to view the eclipse. Some research also suggests that such astronomical events can have a mild impact on some people's sleep and body clock. The sudden decrease in light can temporarily disrupt the body's biological clock, causing some people to feel tired or restless.

changes in mood and energy

Psychologists believe that rare events like a solar eclipse can affect people emotionally. While science doesn't directly link mood swings to an eclipse, the sudden change in shadows and atmosphere can make some people feel uneasy or depressed. This time can also sometimes offer a sense of introspection and peace.

Experts say that stress hormones may increase during this time for those already struggling with stress or anxiety.

Traditions and rules related to food

Solar eclipses hold special significance in Indian traditions. In ancient times, people were advised to avoid cooking or eating during an eclipse. It is believed that harmful rays can spoil food during this time. While there is no scientific evidence for this, some microbiologists believe that in ancient times, food was left out in the open for long periods during an eclipse, which increased the risk of spoilage. This is likely where this tradition originated. Even today, in many homes, food prepared after an eclipse is discarded, and new food is prepared.

pregnancy-related problems

Pregnant women are advised to stay indoors during a solar eclipse. It's believed that this can have an adverse effect on the fetus. Although scientific evidence doesn't confirm this, it's certainly true that avoiding stress and fatigue during pregnancy is essential. Since eclipses can create an atmosphere of fear and anxiety in many places, the ancients may have established these rules for the safety and peace of mind of women.