Using Flaxseed Oil
To Relieve Dry Eye

By Michelle Stephenson; reviewed by Brian S. Boxer Wachler, MD

Flaxseed oil has been shown in certain studies to be an effective treatment for dry eye, a condition that affects millions of Americans. Dry eye can be caused by allergies, vision correction (refractive surgery), and other eye conditions. [See also: Dry Eye Syndrome]

Flaxseeds, also called linseeds, are rich in essential fatty acids, particularly the beneficial type known as omega-3. These fatty acids work throughout the body to protect cell membranes.

Flaxseed is found in several forms. Liquid flaxseed oil is the easiest form to use, but it must be kept refrigerated. Although capsules containing flaxseed oil are more convenient, they can be expensive compared with the liquid form. A large number of capsules also may be required to achieve the equivalent liquid dose.

Ground flaxseeds also can be used, but keep in mind that the body cannot digest the seed itself. So if you use flaxseeds, be sure to grind them in a coffee maker first. Then add 1 or 2 tablespoons of the ground flaxseeds to a glass of water and mix.

All forms of flaxseed should be taken orally and should not be applied directly to the eye.

Some medical experts believe that cold-pressed sources of flaxseed oil are best for treating dry eye. Make sure you keep any flaxseed oil of this type refrigerated.

Other Tips for Use of Flaxseed Oil for Dry Eye

For best absorption, flaxseed oil should be taken with food such as drinks, cottage cheese, or yogurt. Check the expiration date on the label, because flaxseed oil spoils quickly particularly in the liquid form that begins to oxidize in the air once the bottle is opened. Keep flaxseed oil refrigerated for freshness.

Despite reports you may read to the contrary, medical experts tend to view cold-pressed sources of flaxseed oil as the most effective. Cold-pressed is the process of extracting oil from seeds. It's important to avoid using heat in the extraction process, because the oil itself is not heat-stable. This means heat can damage the delicate oil. While cold-pressed flaxseed oil may be the more expensive option, it is also a sign of higher quality.

Recommended dosage for use of flaxseed oil is 1 tablespoon or 14 grams per day of the liquid form, or three to six capsules per day of the capsule form.

As with any type of nutritional supplement, it is essential that you consult your physician first before taking flaxseed oil.

Flaxseed Oil Compared With Dry Eye Medications

A recent study has found that flaxseed oil may be as effective as a commonly used dry eye medication (doxycycline) for the treatment of dry eye. Colin C. K. Chan, MD, and Brian S. Boxer Wachler, MD, reported results of their comparative study at the 2006 annual meeting of the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery.

The study compared oral flaxseed oil capsules (3,000 mg daily or three capsules a day) with the antibiotic doxycycline (100 mg twice a day) for the treatment of dry eye in patients who had undergone LASIK eye surgery. Eighty-one patients (152 eyes) were treated with either 3,000 mg daily of flaxseed oil or 100 mg twice daily of doxycycline for seven days before and after LASIK surgery.

Study results indicated that flaxseed oil was as effective as doxycycline in preventing dry eye after LASIK. An added benefit is that flaxseed oil has fewer side effects than doxycycline, making it a good alternative.

[Page updated May 2006]