Gamma linolenic acid (GLA)

Table of Contents

Other names

GLA from Borage Oil
GLA from Evening Primrose Oil
GLA from Black Currant Seed Oil

Synopsis

Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) is a rare omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) that plays a critical anti-inflammatory role in the body. Unlike other omega-6s such as arachidonic acid, which can promote inflammation, GLA is converted into dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid (DGLA)—a precursor to anti-inflammatory prostaglandins (PGE1) and other immune-modulating compounds.

GLA is not found in the typical Western diet in significant amounts but occurs naturally in a few plant-based oils, including:

  • Evening primrose oil (Oenothera biennis) – 7–10% GLA
  • Borage seed oil (Borago officinalis) – 20–24% GLA
  • Black currant seed oil – 15–17% GLA
  • Hemp seed oil – small but relevant amounts

Therapeutically, GLA is used to:

  • Reduce inflammation in skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, acne, and dermatitis
  • Support hormonal balance, especially for PMS, breast tenderness, and menopause-related symptoms
  • Improve joint mobility and reduce pain in rheumatoid arthritis
  • Promote nerve health, especially in diabetic neuropathy
  • Assist in immune regulation and allergic conditions, such as asthma or hay fever
  • Support skin elasticity and hydration, making it popular in beauty supplements

GLA is typically taken in softgel capsule form, often standardized to GLA content, with daily doses ranging from 240 to 1,000 mg of GLA, depending on the condition and source oil.

Historical Use
While GLA as a compound was only identified and researched in the 20th century, its natural sources—particularly evening primrose and borage—have been used for centuries in traditional medicine:

  • In Native American medicine, evening primrose was used for bruises, wounds, and respiratory issues. The whole plant, including roots and seeds, was employed for both external and internal treatments.
  • In European folk medicine, borage seed oil was used as a tonic for adrenal health and skin clarity, and the leaves were traditionally steeped to soothe fevers and lift the spirits.
  • Black currant berries and seeds were used historically in British and Eastern European herbal medicine for throat, joint, and immune health, often in syrups, teas, or pressed oils.

Modern interest in GLA began to rise in the 1980s, as research emerged linking it to inflammatory skin diseases, hormonal disorders, and arthritis relief. Studies have shown that GLA supplementation may improve skin barrier function, reduce cytokine activity, and improve quality of life in people with chronic inflammatory conditions.

Today, GLA is a core ingredient in:

  • Women’s health supplements for PMS and menopause
  • Skin and beauty formulas for hydration and elasticity
  • Joint and inflammatory support protocols
  • Neuropathy and metabolic health supplements

Its ability to inhibit pro-inflammatory pathways while enhancing anti-inflammatory mediators makes it a unique omega-6 fatty acid with applications across dermatology, endocrinology, and functional medicine.

Uses: Health Conditions

PMS (general) (Traditional)
PMS Type H (Traditional)

Body Systems

Female Reproductive System (Science)
Immune System (Science)
Joints (Science)
Skin (Science)