A More Desirable Omega-6 Fatty Acid
Unlike other omega-6 fatty acids, GLA (gamma-linolenic acid) tends to be
non-inflammatory. GLA comprises 20%-27% of borage oil and 9% of evening
primrose oil.
What makes GLA different from other omega-6 fatty acids? The body converts GLA
into non-inflammatory local hormones, rather than pro-inflammatory local hormones,
as most other omega-6s do. This distinctive feature of the metabolism of GLA makes
it a useful tool in several health situations when other approaches have failed.
What beneficial effects can be derived from sources of GLA?
Inflammation function. When by-products (metabolites) of GLA are incorporated
into cell membranes, cells use these fatty acids to produce non-inflammatory local
hormones. This effect is believed to be the reason why GLA sources are beneficial
for chronic inflammatory disorders, including skin disorders.
Blood pressure. Borage oil has demonstrated the ability to lower elevated blood
pressure in lab animals with genetic predisposition for high blood pressure. It is
believed that the by-products of GLA help to relax smooth muscle in artery walls,
thereby lowering blood pressure.
Cell proliferation. GLA itself inhibits the growth of a number of tumor cell
types in laboratory experiments. It is toxic to tumor cells without harming normal
cells.
Weight management. Dietary GLA helps to reduce body fat accumulation by boosting
the metabolism of the body’s brown fat, an important but under-appreciated tissue that
modulates weight gain.
Skin health. Both clinical and anecdotal evidence has indicated that borage oil and GLA
have the ability to help resolve skin health issues (atopic dermatitis/eczema) in some
cases. Unfortunately, clinical studies have not used sufficient amounts to see the full
potential of borage oil for skin issues. Anecdotally, the dosage necessary to see results
is two tablespoons (six teaspoons) of borage oil daily in divided doses. Of course, this
intervention should be undertaken with the supervision of a qualified healthcare
professional.
Nerve function. Laboratory and clinical evidence is suggestive that GLA may be helpful in
preserved peripheral nerve function among persons with diabetes. In fact, there is evidence
that GLA may be superior to DHA in protecting peripheral tissue from the ravages of diabetes.
Dosage (borage oil with 24% GLA)
- Rheumatoid arthritis: 360 mg to 2.8 gm daily in divided doses.
- Atopic dermatitis: 320-480 mg (expressed as GLA) daily in divided doses.
- High serum triglycerides: up to 2 gm (expressed as GLA) daily in divided doses.