Hypolacrimation: Reduced Inflammation with Sea Buckthorn

The Omega-3 fatty acids contained in sea buckthorn oil – a plant widespread in Europe and Asia – help reduce the symptoms of dry eye syndrome (hypolacrimation). This is demonstrated by research published in the Journal of Nutrition, where a group of researchers from the University of Turku (Finland) showed that taking 2 grams of this supplement daily for three months can reduce symptoms even in contact lens wearers.

Contact Lenses, but Not Only

Keratoconjunctivitis sicca, commonly known as dry eye syndrome, is a disorder characterized by insufficient tear production or, alternatively, rapid tear evaporation. These two phenomena increase eye dryness. Consequently, the risk of inflammation also rises. The condition, which can damage the outer structures of the eye, is more frequent in contact lens users, people who spend long hours in front of computer screens, and those heavily exposed to sun or wind. Moreover, its prevalence in the population can reach up to 30% among individuals over 50 years old.

The Remedy

The Finnish researchers analyzed whether the symptoms of this condition could be alleviated through the intake of sea buckthorn oil. Indeed, this dietary supplement has previously demonstrated several health benefits. For example, sea buckthorn oil is known to be useful in treating atopic eczema and other skin diseases associated with insufficient regeneration. Additionally, it helps relieve symptoms of skin stressed by ultraviolet radiation, dry mouth, ulcers of the mouth, stomach, and genital area, urinary tract inflammations, cervicitis, and sinusitis.

No More Dry Eyes

In the study published in the Journal of Nutrition, Riikka Järvinen and colleagues divided 86 individuals aged between 20 and 70 into two groups. These included both subjects suffering from dry eye due to low tear production and people whose tears evaporated too quickly. One group was instructed to take 2 grams per day of sea buckthorn oil, while the others took a placebo. The study lasted three months, from autumn through winter. At the end, it was observed that although all participants experienced increased tear evaporation, this increase was significantly reduced in those who took sea buckthorn oil. The effect was even greater in individuals who followed the instructions closely and consumed at least 80% of the total supplement amount.

Mechanism of Action

The researchers concluded that the reduction in inflammation was likely promoted by the Omega-3 alpha-linolenic acid contained in sea buckthorn oil. This fatty acid is a precursor to molecules with anti-inflammatory activity. Furthermore, the authors noted that sea buckthorn oil is rich in vitamin E, an antioxidant that would protect the eye from oxidative stress which, by damaging cells and tissues, triggers inflammatory processes.

A Help Against the Cold

According to Järvinen and colleagues, the results of this study suggest that taking sea buckthorn oil could reduce the increase in tear concentration typical of the colder season. Additionally, it may influence the maximum intensity of symptoms such as redness and burning in people suffering from dry eye syndrome.  

Source 

1. Larmo PS, Järvinen RL, Setälä NL, Yang B, Viitanen MH, Engblom JR, Tahvonen RL, Kallio HP, “Oral sea buckthorn oil attenuates tear film osmolarity and symptoms in individuals with dry eye,” J Nutr. 2010 Aug;140(8):1462-8. Epub 2010 Jun 16