Gamma-Linolenic Acid

Figure 1. The chemical structure of Gamma-Linolenic Acid.

Gamma-Linolenic Acid (GLA) is an Omega-6 fatty acid found primarily in seed oils. It was first isolated from the seed oil of evening primrose.

GLA can be produced in the human body. The human body produces GLA from Linolenic Acid. From GLA, the human body produces Dihomo-Gamma-Linolenic Acid (DGLA), one of the three sources of eicosanoids (or signalling molecules) along with Arachidonic Acid and Eicosapentaenoic Acid. DGLA plays a role as a precursor for compounds (e.g. prostaglandin PGH₁ and then PGE₁) which regulate the human immune system and produce anti-inflammatory effects.

GLA is available in many vegetable-based oils, including evening primrose oil, borage seed oil, and black currant seed oil.

Taken as a dietary supplement, GLA is used to help maintain brain function, skeletal health, reproductive health, and metabolism. It’s also used to help stimulate skin and hair growth, and taken to help modulate inflammatory response as an anti-inflammatory nutrient.