Scientists have studied flaxseed oil for dry eyes due to its omega-3 fatty acid content. While there is some limited research supporting the use of flaxseed oil supplements, more studies need to be done to fully understand the potential benefit.
While over-the-counter and prescription eye drops are generally effective at reducing dry eyes, you may like to try natural home remedies, such as flaxseed oil. However, it is always best to check with your healthcare provider before using any home remedy or supplement for dry eye.
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Benefits of Flaxseed Oil for Dry Eyes
Flaxseed oil, also known as flax oil or linseed oil, is made by grinding and pressing flaxseeds to produce a clear to yellowish-colored oil.
Flaxseed oil contains omega-3 fatty acids (specifically α-linolenic acid or ALA), lignans, and proteins. Omega-3 fatty acids may be helpful in the treatment of dry eye. Limited research has yielded mixed results regarding this benefit, but there are a few ways that it may be able to help.
Improved Tear Quality
Studies have shown that omega-3 fatty acids may help improve tear production, which can help lubricate the eyes.
A 2019 research review investigated the potential benefits of omega‐3 and omega‐6 polyunsaturated fatty acids on dry eye.
The review authors found research results to be inconsistent, but concluded that there is some limited evidence to support the use of long‐chain omega‐3 supplementation in managing dry eye disease. Flaxseed oil contains primarily short‐chain omega‐3s, but short‐chain omega-3s can be converted to the long‐chain omega‐3s in the body.
The researchers noted a small improvement in the stability of tears, but noted that more research is needed.
Decreased Inflammation
There is limited information suggesting that flaxseed oil or fish oil may help reduce inflammation on the eye surface. Substances such as cytokines and eicosanoids in tears are indicators of inflammation.
Inflammation and dry eye are closely related. Inflammation in the eye is both a precursor and a symptom of reduced tear production. So reducing inflammation may be helpful in reducing dry eye symptoms.
Researchers have found that those markers of inflammation were reduced after 12 weeks of using either topical or oral combinations of fish oil or flaxseed oil. Topical use showed the greatest reduction in inflammation.
Another study compared the use of combination artificial tear formulation containing flaxseed oil and other ingredients (trehalose, carboxymethylcellulose, and glycerin). Researchers compared it to a formulation containing the other ingredients but no flaxseed oil or trehalose.
The flaxseed oil combination showed fewer side effects and several benefits, including improved scores that measure inflammation, irritation and damage in the eyes.
Improved Ocular Surface
In the management of dry eye, clinicians use a tool called the Ocular Surface Disease Index or OSDI. The 12-item questionnaire evaluates dry eye symptoms including ocular symptoms, vision-related function, and environmental triggers.
A 2023 study published in the Journal of Clinical Ophthalmology and Research evaluated OSDI scores after participants used flaxseed oil or omega-3 fatty acid nutritional supplements to treat mild dry eye disease.
Researchers found that both supplements alleviated the signs and symptoms of dry eyes and showed improvements in OSDI scores.
Relief from Condition-Related Dry Eye
One study investigated the effects of taking flaxseed oil capsules (1 or 2 grams per day) on keratoconjunctivitis sicca in Sjögren's syndrome patients. Keratoconjunctivitis sicca is a condition that causes dryness and inflammation in the eyes. The study authors found that the supplements helped relieve dry eye symptoms.
Fish Oil vs. Flaxseed Oil for Dry Eye
Both fish oil and flaxseed oil provide omega-3 fatty acids. Both oils have been studied for their benefits in the treatment of dry eye.
Fish oil contains long-chain fatty acids, such as docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and EPA eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). Long‐chain omega‐3s are found predominantly in oily fish like salmon, mackerel, anchovies, or sardines. Flaxseed oil contains only small amounts of DHA and EPA.
Since studies have demonstrated greater benefits from long-chain fatty acids as compared to the short-chain fatty acids found in flaxseed, fish oil may have an edge over flaxseed oil for dry eye.
Another study actually compared flaxseed oil to omega-3 oil supplements. Most omega-3 supplements contain DHA and EPA, derived from fish. The study authors found that DHA and EPA provided the most effective treatment, suggesting again that fish oil may provide a benefit over flaxseed oil, which contains more ALA than DHA or EPA.
The study authors also mentioned a previous research report out of Harvard called the Harvard Women's Study which demonstrated protection from dry eyes associated with fish consumption.
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.
Flaxseed Allergy
Some people have allergic reactions to flaxseed oil. Itching, hives, nausea, and vomiting are all signs of an allergic reaction to flaxseed oil. Discontinue use and see your healthcare provider if you have an allergic reaction.
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 1.6 grams of ALA omega-3 fatty acids a day for men, and 1.1 grams 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. Consider adding foods rich in omega-3s, such as salmon, mackerel, sardines, and flaxseeds.
Flaxseed oil should not be administered directly to the eyes unless directed by a healthcare professional. Adding flaxseed oil directly to the eyes may cause blurry vision. Instead, try flaxseed oil supplements available in capsule or liquid form.
Your intake of omega-3 fatty acids from all sources (foods and supplements) counts toward the daily recommended dosage. If you eat foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids and take a supplement, you could go over the daily recommendation.Speak with your physician about the appropriate intake of omega-3s.
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.
Keep Flaxseed Oil From Going Bad
Be sure to refrigerate your flaxseed oil once opened in order to prevent it from spoiling. Also be sure to check the expiration date. Once flaxseed oil is past the expiration date, it can go rancid and have a bitter or burned flavor.
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 are on prescription medications, you should consult your healthcare provider before trying flaxseed oil as it may slow down the absorption of oral medications or other nutrients if taken at the same time.
Do not take flaxseed oil or consume flaxseeds if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. It may cause complications due to its hormonal effect.
Consistently Dry Eyes
Flaxseed oil may offer a number of health benefits, but it is not a cure for dry eyes or other health conditions, although it may aid in reducing symptoms. If you have consistently dry eyes, speak with your healthcare provider or ophthalmologist for more information.
Summary
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.
