GLA (Gamma-Linolenic Acid) Supplements and Information

Gamma-Linolenic Acid (GLA) is found as a fatty acid in some plant seed oils. These include evening primrose seed oil, borage seed oil, blackcurrant seed oil, and some fungal sources. In evening primrose oil, GLA makes up 7 to 14 of the total fatty acids, in borage seed oil about 25, and in black currant seed oil, about 20. GLA is produced naturally in the body and under some conditions may become an essential fatty acid. GLA also occurs naturally as triacylglycerols (TAGs). The sterospecificity of GLA varies among different oil sources.

GLA appears to be effective in some cases of rheumatoid arthritis and may be indicated in some other inflammatory disorders such as Sjogren's syndrome and ulcerative colitis. Possible medical indications of GLA include diabetic neuropathy, acute respiratory distress syndrome, hypertension, and elevated serum lipids. GLA has been used with varying degrees of success when used in connection with some forms of cancers, principally cerebral gliomas. Currently, it has not proven useful when used in connection with tardive dyskinesia, premenstrual syndrome, or menopausal flushing. It may be useful for some cases of atopic eczema and atopic dermatitis, particularly to help with itching and uremic skin conditions in hemodialysis patients. It is not recommended to be used in an attempt to enhance the immune system as it may be immunosuppressive.

Possible Medical Indications of GLA

Some medical professionals assert that GLA may be useful when used in connection with the following conditions:
  • Diabetes - Omega-6 fatty acid supplementation, from sources containing GLA may assist nerve function and help prevent nerve disease experienced by those with diabetes.

  • Osteoporosis - A deficiency in essential fatty acids can lead to severe bone loss and osteoporosis. Some studies have indicated that supplements of GLA and EPA together help maintain or increase bone mass in those suffering from osteoporosis.

  • Menopausal Symptoms - Research to date has not shown the benefit of GLA over taking a placebo. However, some women who report improvement; therefore, it may be worthwhile to talk to your doctor about whether it is safe for you to try.

  • Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) - Although unsubstantiated in clinical studies, some women claim to find relief for their PMS symptoms including breast tenderness, depression, irritability, and swelling and bloating from fluid retention. Note: Breast tenderness from causes other than PMS may also improve with use of GLA.

  • Eczema - Several early studies suggested that GLA may help to relieve symptoms associated with this skin condition such as itching, redness, and scaling. Whether GLA supplementation will work when used in connection with eczema may differ from individual to individual.

  • Allergies - Individuals prone to allergies may require more essential fatty acids and often have difficulty converting Lenolenic Acid to GLA. Some health professionals believe GLA supplementation may help.

  • Rheumatoid Arthritis - GLA from EPO, borage oil, or black currant seed oil, may help to reduce joint pain, swelling, and morning stiffness. GLA may also allow for reduction in the amount of pain medication used by those with rheumatoid arthritis, although studies have been inconclusive.

  • Alcoholism - GLA supplementation may help lessen cravings for alcohol and prevent liver damage, although human studies to verify this belief have not been carried out.

  • Cancer - It is believed that GLA has shown some benefit for breast cancer in certain studies. The information is not conclusive and is somewhat controversial. The safest bet is to eat a diet with the proper balance of omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acids.

  • High Blood Pressure and Heart Disease - Some animal studies indicate that GLA, either alone or in combination with the two important omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA, both found in fish and fish oil, may lower the blood pressure as well as lower the risk of heart disease.

  • Ulcers - Some health professionals suggest, based on limited studies that GLA from EPO may have anti-ulcer properties. It is not known if or how this might apply to people with stomach or intestinal ulcers or gastritis.

Dosage and Administration

There are several forms of GLA supplements. GLA is available in concentrate form, evening primrose oil, borage seed oil, and blackcurrant seed oil. Doses tried for rheumatoid arthritis and other conditions range from about 360 milligrams to 2.8 grams daily in divided doses and usually with meals. Doses of up to 2 grams daily may be helpful in those with elevated triglycerides. The concentration of GLA varies in the different oil preparations, and depending on the concentration, the number of capsules daily may be smaller or larger in order to make up the desired dose. Read the directions on the manufacturers label.