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Flax/Borage Oil (Organic)

Description

When a combination of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are needed, a combination of flax oil and borage oil provide the solution. Flaxseed oil provides the omega-3 fatty acids. Borage oil provides omega-6 fatty acids.

Signs and Symptoms for Nutrient Applications

- Inflammation - Skin conditions (psoriasis, eczema and dermatitis) - Allergies - Heart disease - Hypertension - Premature aging - Autoimmune disorders - Ulcerative colitis - Neonatal development - Arthritis - Immune impairment - PMS - Reduced sex drive - Menopause - Fibrocystic breast disease

Clinical Applications/Research

Essential Fatty Acids

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. flax 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. There are many signs and symptoms associated with EFA deficiency. These include dry skin and hair, cracked nails, fatigue, lack of endurance, dry mucous membranes, depression, constipation, digestive complaints, immune deficiency, aching joints, forgetfulness, arthritis, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and angina. Allergy problems usually respond well to EFA’s.

Flaxseed Oil

Flaxseeds are high in both omega-3 fatty acids and lignans. Lignans are special compounds, which have shown some promise in relieving hot flashes, and contain antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal and anticancer properties. The gut flora converts the plant lignans into enterolactone and enterodiol, two compounds shown to have protective effects against breast cancer. Lignans bind to estrogen-receptor sites, preventing the cancer-promoting effects of estrogen on breast tissue. Note: Flaxseed oil must be converted from alpha-linolenic acid and must be elongated to EPA and DHA using the delta-6 desaturase enzyme. This enzyme needs zinc, B6 and magnesium to function effectively. This enzyme is also inhibited by trans-fatty acids, saturated fats and alcohol.

Borage Oil

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 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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