Auckland, Feb. 2 -- Following a successful pilot study, researchers at the University of Auckland are conducting a clinical trial of castor oil as a potentially safe and natural treatment for dry eye conditions.

It is estimated that dry-eye illness affects approximately 58 per cent of the population aged 50 and up in Australia.

Some risk factors for developing dry eye disease include advanced age, menopause, increased screen time, and contact lens wear.

Blepharitis is the leading cause of dry eye illness, accounting for more than 80 per cent of cases. It is a chronic disease with no known cure.

"Currently, patients are left grappling with symptoms of dryness, grittiness and, in some cases, watery eyes that feel uncomfortable impacting...