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Borage Oil

Description

Although evening primrose oil has received most of the attention and press, borage oil is an omega-6 fatty acid that contains the richest source of GLA, approximately 20-26% GLA. Black currant seed oil contains 15-20% GLA, whereas evening primrose oil contains 7-10%.

Signs and Symptoms for Nutrient Applications

- Skin conditions (eczema, dermatitis) - Rheumatoid arthritis - PMS symptoms - Fiborcystic breast disease - Asthma - Diabetic neuropathy

Clinical Applications/Research

Borage Oil

Essential fatty acids (EFA’s) are important in the diet because EFA’s are a main component of phospholipids, the main constituent of cell membranes. Phospholipids help determine the fluidity and integrity of the cell membranes, and the type of fat ingested will play a major role in determining the health of the cell membranes. Saturated fats (i.e. butter or lard), trans-fatty acids (i.e. margarine or deep fried foods), or excess arachidonic acid (i.e. processed meats) all decrease cell membrane fluidity and function, while “good” essential fatty acids (i.e. fish oils or borage oil) enhance cell membrane fluidity and function. Essential fatty acids also play an important role in inflammation, hormone synthesis, nerve transmission and many other bodily functions. Borage oil is an omega-6 fatty acid, one of the two main types of essential fatty acids. Borage oil is one of the few oils containing gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) (makes prostaglandins of the one series). These prostaglandins are hormone-like substances that are antiinflammatory and counteract the pain-producing, inflammatory, vasoconstrictive properties of the two series. The body normally makes its GLA from linoleic acid, an omega-6 fatty acid found in many foods. However, in certain circumstances the body is unable to convert linoleic acid to GLA in an efficient manner. These circumstances include diabetes, high alcohol ingestion, advanced age, eczema, fibrocystic breast disease, excessive saturated fat intake, elevated cholesterol levels, deficiencies of vitamin B6, magnesium, calcium, zinc or biotin. In some of these cases, GLA supplementation may be beneficial.

Disclaimer: The statements above have not been evaluated by the FDA. The nutritional suggestions and research provided are for informational purposes only and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease and should not be used as a substitute for sound medical advice. Please see your health care professional in all matters pertaining to your physical health.

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