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

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Gamma linolenic acid (GLA) is an omega-6 fatty acid found in evening primrose oil, borage oil, and black currant seed oil. Its use to support the prostaglandin body system is scientifically grounded, as GLA serves as a precursor to dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid (DGLA), which in turn is a substrate for the production of prostaglandin E1 (PGE1), an anti-inflammatory prostaglandin. Prostaglandins are lipid compounds that perform hormone-like actions and mediate inflammation, vascular tone, and immune responses.

Several studies have investigated GLA supplementation for conditions associated with prostaglandin imbalances, such as atopic dermatitis, rheumatoid arthritis, and diabetic neuropathy. While some clinical trials suggest modest benefits, particularly in inflammatory disorders, results are mixed and often limited by small sample sizes and methodological issues. The mechanism by which GLA may be beneficial is well-established biochemically: supplementation increases tissue levels of DGLA and PGE1, potentially shifting the balance toward anti-inflammatory prostaglandins.

Overall, the evidence supports the role of GLA in influencing prostaglandin synthesis, but clinical efficacy varies by condition and is not universally robust. Thus, the scientific rationale for using GLA to support the prostaglandin system is moderate, meriting a rating of 3 out of 5.

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