Omega-6 Fatty Acid: Borage / Primrose Oil

DESCRIPTION/FUNCTION

Gamma-Linolenic Acid (GLA), an omega-6 fatty acid, is a derivative of the essential fatty acid, linoleic acid. Essential fatty acids (EFAs) are precursors of the hormone-like eicosanoids (prostaglandins, thromboxanes, leukotrienes) that participate in the regulation of blood pressure, heart rate, vascular dilation, blood clotting, lipolysis, immune response, and the central nervous system.

RDA (Recommended Dietary Allowance) for Adults

None. As linoleic acid (precursor to GLA):
- Males: 19-50 (17 g); 51 and older (14 g).
- Females: 19-50 (12 g); 51 and older (11 g).
- Pregnancy/Lactation: 13 g.

MAJOR SOURCES

Usually borage seed oil and evening primrose oil, but also black currant seed oil.

MAINTENANCE/THERAPEUTIC RANGE

100 mg to 500 mg of GLA.

POSSIBLE THERAPEUTIC APPLICATIONS

Cancer (breast; when taken with tamoxifen); coronary heart disease; diabetes (neuropathy); eczema; fibrocystic breasts; high blood pressure; high triglycerides; inflammation; osteoarthritis; premenstrual syndrome; rheumatoid arthritis.

COMMENTS

Most research has been done on borage and primrose oils. The three primary sources of GLA have varying concentrations of it: evening primrose oil (9-10%), black current seed oil (12-14%), borage seed oil (20-24%). Taking GLA is not likely to increase pro-inflammatory arachidonic acid (AA) levels, since most GLA from supplements is converted to dihomo-gamma linolenic acid (DGLA), and then to prostaglandin E1 (PGE1), a beneficial prostaglandin. DGLA actually competes with AA, reducing inflammation.

CAUTIONS

Consult with your health practitioner if you are taking blood thinning drugs or phenothiazines (GLA reduces seizure threshold).

References
Jellin, JM, editor. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, 2008.
Pillepich, JA. The Nutraceutical Reference Guide, 2005.

FOR OMEGA-6 FATTY ACID, CONSIDER THESE SUPPLEMENTS*

● Omega-6 (GLA)
● Age-Less Paks (a multi that also contains omega-6)
● Osteo Paks (a multi that also contains omega-6)
● Wellness Paks (a multi that also contains omega-6)

*First check with your doctor if you have a medical condition or are taking prescription medications.

* * * * * *

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