What is sanpaku eyes?

Sanpaku Eyes: What You Need to Know

Sanpaku eyes, meaning "three whites" in Japanese, refers to eyes where either the white of the eye (sclera) is visible either above or below the iris. This is typically viewed as a deviation from the normal appearance where only the white on either side of the iris is visible.

There are two types of sanpaku:

• Yin Sanpaku (Inferior Sanpaku): The white of the eye is visible below the iris. This is the more common type. It is linked to many claims from many resources.
• Yang Sanpaku (Superior Sanpaku): The white of the eye is visible above the iris. This is less common.

Origins and Beliefs

The concept of sanpaku originated in Japanese physiognomy, a system of assessing a person's character or future from their outer appearance. The late Japanese philosopher and macrobiotic diet advocate, George Ohsawa, popularized the term.

According to Ohsawa, people with sanpaku eyes are "out of balance" and prone to accidents, illness, or other misfortunes. He argued that this imbalance could be corrected through a macrobiotic diet.

Interpretations and Associations

Different interpretations and associations are linked to Sanpaku eyes, although none of this is scientifically proven:

• Yin Sanpaku: Associated with being prone to attracting accidents, negativity, exhaustion and being drained of vital energy. Also can be associated with fear and paranoia.
• Yang Sanpaku: Associated with a tendency towards rage, violence, sadism and attracting violence.

Scientific Validity

It is crucial to understand that there is no scientific basis for the claims associated with sanpaku. Eye appearance can be influenced by genetics, age, ethnicity, and various medical conditions. The visibility of the sclera above or below the iris is simply a variation in normal human anatomy. There is no evidence to suggest it is linked to health problems or personality traits.

Cultural Impact

Despite the lack of scientific backing, the idea of Sanpaku eyes has captured the public imagination, appearing in various forms of media and pop culture. Celebrities like Princess Diana and John F. Kennedy, whom some believe exhibited sanpaku, have further fueled interest in this concept.