Evidence supporting the use of: Gamma linolenic acid (GLA)
For the body system: Breasts

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Table of Contents

Synopsis

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

Gamma linolenic acid (GLA) is an omega-6 fatty acid found in evening primrose oil, borage oil, and black currant seed oil. GLA has been studied with regard to breast health primarily for its potential role in alleviating symptoms of cyclical mastalgia (breast pain associated with the menstrual cycle). Several clinical trials and meta-analyses have evaluated GLA supplementation, often in the form of evening primrose oil, for this purpose. While some studies report a modest reduction in breast pain compared to placebo, the overall quality of evidence is mixed and there is notable variability in study methodologies, sample sizes, and outcomes. For example, some randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have shown a statistically significant benefit, while others have found no difference compared to placebo.

The proposed mechanism is that GLA may help correct an underlying deficiency in dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid (DGLA), a precursor to anti-inflammatory prostaglandins, thus possibly reducing pain and inflammation in breast tissue. However, clinical guidelines in several countries note that the evidence is not robust enough to universally recommend GLA for breast pain, and it is generally considered only after first-line treatments fail.

In summary, scientific validation for GLA’s use in supporting breast health exists but is limited in strength; while some benefit has been shown for cyclical mastalgia, the effect is generally modest and evidence is inconsistent.

More about gamma linolenic acid (GLA)
More about Breasts