Should You Be Using Flaxseed Oil To Treat Dry Eyes?
Sometimes eye drops just aren't cutting it when it comes to alleviating dry eyes. According to Healthline, you may not need any artificial eye moisturizers to treat your dry eyes. An easy at-home solution is in your kitchen or bathroom cabinet: flaxseed oil.
The outlet reported that flaxseed oil contains various fatty acids and proteins, which are known to treat dry eyes. The flaxseed may increase your tear gland production and possibly reduce inflammation in the eyelids, helping to provide relief to irritated eyes.
The form of flaxseed oil doesn't matter, according to Verywell Health. So, if you prefer the liquid versus the supplements, by all means, go ahead. However, it's important to note that you must look for flaxseed supplements or oils that are cold-pressed and in dark packaging to help maintain the nutrients without damage.
Verywell Health also added that flaxseed oil is also useful for other purposes including weight loss, inflammation reduction, heart health, and more. So, not only are you clearing up your dry eyes by using flaxseed oil, but you're also improving your health in other ways. Sounds like a win-win to us.
The side effects of taking flaxseed oil.
Of course, there's no medication or at-home solution that may come without side effects. Knowing the risk before buying some cold-pressed flaxseed oil for your eye treatment is important.
Per Healthline, there isn't enough scientific data definitively linking flaxseed oil with dry eye relief. However, should you use flaxseed oil to alleviate dry eyes, be wary of interactions with other prescription and OTC medications, as it may render them ineffective. Flaxseed oil may also adversely lower blood sugar and may also decrease blood pressure, which can be dangerous. So people who take blood sugar medication or who have low blood pressure may want to avoid taking flaxseed oil.
It's important to consult with your doctor before taking any new medication or treatment for a condition. If you already have medical conditions like diabetes or underactive thyroid, it's best you get their advice first before consuming flaxseed oil (via Verywell Health).