What is gamma-linolenic acid?
Linolenic acid (or gamma-linolenic acid – GLA) is an essential omega 6 fatty acid. It is found predominantly in plant sources.
Foods with the highest source of Linolenic acid are:
- Evening primrose seed oil
- Borage seed oil
- Blackcurrent seed oil
Linolenic acid (GLA) must be obtained in the diet, as the body cannot produce this essential fatty acid.
Important gamma-linolenic acid facts
- Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) produces hormone-like substances called prostaglandins
- Research indicates that gamma-linolenic acid may possess anti-inflammatory effects
- Research shows that gamma-linolenic acid may also have anti-thrombotic (anti-clotting) actions
Why gamma-linolenic acid is important
Gamma-linolenic acid’s anti-inflammatory properties may be a reason why research has shown that it is useful in treating rheumatoid arthritis.
Other research shows that gamma-linolenic acid may be useful for treating other inflammatory disorders, such as ulcerative colitis.
Many women with PMS seem to benefit from supplementation of evening primrose oil – there has been research showing that the GLA reduces a lot of their symptoms.