Pearl (also known as "Zhen Zhu" in traditional Chinese medicine) has been used for centuries in various Asian medical systems, primarily in powdered form, to support eye health and treat conditions such as cataracts. This traditional use is rooted in ancient texts and herbal practices, where pearl powder was believed to "brighten the eyes" and address issues like blurred vision or eye discomfort. The rationale for its use is mainly based on the cooling, calming, and detoxifying properties ascribed to pearl in these systems, rather than direct evidence of efficacy against cataracts.

Modern scientific research on pearl powder as a treatment for cataracts is extremely limited. There are no high-quality clinical trials demonstrating its effectiveness in preventing, slowing, or reversing cataract formation. Most scientific studies on pearl focus on its calcium content or potential for skin health, not on ophthalmologic conditions. In summary, while pearl is traditionally used for eye health, there is minimal scientific validation for its use in cataract management, and any benefit remains unproven by modern medical standards.