While over-the-counter and prescription eye drops are generally effective at reducing dry eyes, you may like to try natural home remedies. Many people use flaxseed oil, also known as flax oil or linseed oil, to improve dry eyes. Flaxseed oil is made by grinding and pressing flaxseeds to produce a clear to yellowish-colored oil.
Read on to learn more about how flaxseed oil may help lubricate the eyes to provide relief.
Health Benefits
Flaxseed oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids (specifically α-linolenic acid), lignans, and proteins. It also serves as a powerful antioxidant.
Thanks to these nutrients, flaxseed oil is known to offer many health benefits:
Reduce inflammationPromote heart healthReduce the risk of cancerImprove gut healthPrevent kidney diseaseHelp with weight lossImprove skin health
Because it is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, flaxseed oil can help with dry eye relief. Studies have shown that omega-3 fatty acids can help increase the production and amount of tears, which can help lubricate the eyes.
Possible Side Effects
Flaxseed oil is generally considered to be safe when consumed by adults. Research shows little to no evidence of toxicity or side effects when flaxseed oil is used as a dietary supplement.
Large doses of flaxseed oil may cause diarrhea.
Flaxseed oil may interact with some medications, including:
Blood thinners (e. g. , aspirin)Medications that regulate blood sugar (e. g. , insulin)
Talk with your healthcare provider before using flaxseed oil if you have any bleeding conditions, diabetes, inflammatory bowel disease, low blood pressure, prostate cancer, or an underactive thyroid.
Dosage and Preparation
There is no standard recommended dosage for the daily intake of flaxseed oil.
Liquid flaxseed oil contains approximately 7 grams of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) per 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters). Guidelines recommend 1,600 milligrams (mg) of ALA omega-3 fatty acids a day for men, and 1,100 mg a day for women.
If you’d rather not use flaxseed oil as a dietary supplement, you can try adding more omega-3 fatty acids to your diet. Research shows that consuming omega-3 fatty acids may help stimulate tear production and lubricate the eyes. Consider adding foods rich in omega-3s, such as salmon, mackerel, sardines, and flaxseeds.
Taking fish oil or other omega-3 supplements may also be effective.
What to Look For
Flaxseed oil capsule supplements are available at health food stores and many drugstores. Look for cold-pressed flaxseed products that are labeled with all the ingredients and dosage recommendations.
You can find liquid flaxseed oil on the shelves or in the refrigerated section at some grocery stores and health food stores. Look for cold-pressed oil in opaque packaging that protects it from light and heat, which can damage the nutrients in flaxseed.
Important Considerations
Buying flaxseed oil supplements for dry eyes may not be necessary if you are already using the first-line treatment recommended by your healthcare provider (eye drops) and eating a healthy diet rich in omega-3s, fruits, vegetables, and proteins.
If you have a bleeding disorder, an upcoming surgery, or are on prescription medications, you should consult your healthcare provider before trying flaxseed oil.
Do not take flaxseed oil or consume flaxseeds if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. It may cause complications due to its hormonal effect.
A Word From Verywell
Dry eyes can be uncomfortable and have an impact on your quality of life. Flaxseed oil may provide lubrication to reduce dry eyes and help improve your eye health and comfort. If you do use flaxseed oil to reduce dry eyes, be sure to continue any treatments recommended by your healthcare provider and reduce your screen time whenever possible.
