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 eczema (atopic dermatitis) is supported primarily by a scientific rationale, as GLA is a precursor to dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid (DGLA), which can be converted into anti-inflammatory prostaglandins. The thought is that patients with eczema may have impaired delta-6-desaturase enzyme activity, leading to reduced GLA levels and increased inflammation. Supplementation could theoretically address this deficit and reduce eczema symptoms.

However, the clinical evidence is mixed. Some early studies and small trials suggested a modest benefit of GLA-rich oils in reducing eczema severity, itching, and inflammation. Yet, larger, more rigorous systematic reviews and meta-analyses (e.g., a 2013 Cochrane review) have found that GLA supplementation (via evening primrose or borage oil) does not consistently improve eczema compared to placebo. These studies generally report little or no difference in symptoms, and the quality of evidence is often rated as low or very low due to small sample sizes and methodological limitations.

In summary, while there is a plausible scientific mechanism and some initial positive studies, the bulk of high-quality clinical evidence does not support a strong benefit of GLA for eczema. Thus, the use is scientifically motivated, but the strength of evidence is weak (rated 2/5).

More about gamma linolenic acid (GLA)
More about Eczema

Other ingredients used for Eczema

Other health conditions supported by gamma linolenic acid (GLA)

Products containing gamma linolenic acid (GLA)

Nature's Sunshine Evening Primrose Oil
Nature's Sunshine Natural Changes
Nature's Sunshine Super GLA