Omega-6 fatty acids (Omega-6 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids)
Synopsis
Omega-6 fatty acids are a family of polyunsaturated fats essential to human health, with linoleic acid (LA) being the most common dietary form. Once consumed, LA can be converted into other omega-6 fats like gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid (DGLA), and arachidonic acid (AA). These fats play critical roles in cell membrane structure, immune function, and inflammatory responses.
Found abundantly in vegetable oils (such as corn, soybean, sunflower, and safflower oil), nuts, seeds, and certain meats, omega-6s are essential, meaning the body cannot produce them on its own and must obtain them from food. Unlike omega-3s, which are primarily anti-inflammatory, omega-6s have a more complex role—some derivatives like GLA and DGLA are anti-inflammatory, while others, like AA, can promote inflammation, especially when consumed in excess.
In modern medicine, GLA, derived from sources such as evening primrose oil, borage oil, and black currant seed oil, has been used to reduce symptoms of eczema, rheumatoid arthritis, diabetic neuropathy, and premenstrual syndrome (PMS). The emphasis today is on maintaining a healthy balance between omega-6 and omega-3 intake to support optimal cellular function and reduce chronic inflammation.
Historical Use in Medicine
Historically, omega-6-rich foods were present in many traditional diets, though not in the concentrated form seen in industrialized food systems today. In ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia, sesame oil—high in linoleic acid—was used both as a food and for medicinal massage. Traditional African and Mediterranean diets included nuts and seeds that naturally supplied a mix of omega-6 and omega-3 fats in balanced ratios.
Evening primrose, one of the most historically significant sources of GLA, was used by Native American tribes to treat skin conditions and hormonal imbalances. Its seeds were pressed to produce oil, which was then used externally and internally. This traditional use laid the groundwork for scientific investigation in the 20th century, which confirmed evening primrose oil’s efficacy in treating inflammatory and hormonal conditions due to its GLA content.
During the industrial era, the rise of refined vegetable oils caused a dramatic increase in dietary omega-6 intake, often without a corresponding increase in omega-3s. This dietary imbalance has been linked to the rise of chronic inflammatory diseases in modern populations. Nevertheless, in the right context and balance, omega-6 fatty acids—particularly GLA—continue to hold therapeutic value in clinical and holistic medicine.
Uses: Health Conditions
Acne (Traditional)
Cholesterol (low) (Traditional)
Body Systems
Glandular System (Science)
Immune System (Science)
Joints (Science)
Skin (Science)
Specific Hormones (Science)