What is sanpaku eyes?

Sanpaku eyes are a condition where the white of the eye (sclera) is visible either above or below the iris when looking straight ahead. The term "sanpaku" originates from Japanese, meaning "three whites," referring to the visible whites on three sides of the iris.

There are two types of sanpaku eyes:

1. Yin Sanpaku: This occurs when the white is visible beneath the iris. It is often associated with physical and emotional imbalance or vulnerability. Some interpret it as an indicator that a person might be prone to dangers originating from their environment.

2. Yang Sanpaku: This form occurs when the white is visible above the iris. It is sometimes believed to indicate an intense or aggressive personality, with potential for erratic or dangerous behavior.

Sanpaku eyes have gained attention in popular culture and are often subject to superstitions and myths, largely popularized by George Ohsawa, a Japanese macrobiotic theorist. Ohsawa suggested that people with yin sanpaku were more likely to have accidents, while those with yang sanpaku might cause tragedies.

However, there is no scientific evidence supporting the idea that sanpaku eyes are predictors of health or personality traits. Such interpretations are more cultural and metaphysical rather than rooted in medical science. In reality, eye shape and sclera visibility can vary widely among individuals and usually have no inherent significance.