A recent small pilot study (36 participants) with dry eyes demonstrated that acupuncture can increase increase tear wetting. (click here for study) In my practice I do not use acupuncture as a first line therapy for dry eyes. I look to nutrition first, as often increasing essential fatty acids, especially Omega-3 can resolve dry eyes. I usually suggest patients use flax seed oil for dry eyes. If that does not resolve the dry eyes then often individualized herbal medicine quickly brings relief.
However even though acupuncture is not my first choice for this condition, this study is another demonstration of the effectiveness of acupuncture for a wide variety of physiological symptoms.
Yours In Health,
George Mandler
Licensed Acupuncturist
Licensed Nutritionist
Certified Nutrition Specialist
Chinese Herbalist
