“Dry eye is a common ocular surface disease, characterized by an imbalance in tear film homeostasis. Insufficient secretion and excessive evaporation of tears can disrupt the balance of the tear film, trigger a vicious cycle of DE, and worsen the condition. Traditional Chinese medicine has shown significant therapeutic effects in treating dry eye syndrome based on syndrome differentiation. Numerous studies have confirmed that traditional Chinese medicine can regulate tear film homeostasis, end the vicious cycle, and alleviate dry eye syndrome. This article systematically reviews the basic experimental research on the regulation of tear film homeostasis by traditional Chinese medicine to alleviate dry eye in recent years, providing a theoretical basis for clinical treatment and ideas for scientific research design.”