Evidence supporting the use of: Gamma-linolenic acid
For the health condition: Rheumatoid Arthritis

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) is an omega-6 fatty acid found in oils such as evening primrose oil, borage oil, and black currant seed oil. Its use for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is supported by some scientific evidence, but the quality and consistency of this evidence are limited.

GLA is thought to have anti-inflammatory properties because it is metabolized to dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid (DGLA), which can be converted to anti-inflammatory eicosanoids. Several small randomized controlled trials have investigated GLA supplementation in RA patients, with some reporting modest improvements in symptoms such as joint pain, stiffness, and swelling. For example, a 1993 study published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that patients taking GLA experienced statistically significant improvement compared to placebo. However, other studies have failed to show significant benefit, and meta-analyses generally conclude that the effect size is small and that methodological limitations exist.

Major rheumatology guidelines do not routinely recommend GLA supplements for RA, largely due to the inconsistent evidence and the availability of more effective, evidence-based pharmaceutical treatments. Side effects are generally mild but can include gastrointestinal upset. Overall, while there is a plausible biological rationale and some clinical data supporting the use of GLA in RA, the evidence is not robust, and it is not considered a standard therapy.

More about Gamma-linolenic acid
More about Rheumatoid Arthritis

Other health conditions supported by Gamma-linolenic acid

Arthritis
Eczema
Inflammation
PMS (general)
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Skin (dry and/or flaky)

Products containing Gamma-linolenic acid

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.