By Darrell Miller

Gamma Linolenic Acid, commonly abbreviated as GLA, is an important ingredient in vegetable oils. Discovered to be one of the polyunsaturated fatty acids, it is involved in underway studies concerning the treatment of cancer. Of special note is its unique anti-carcinogenic activity that puts to end to the development of abnormal cells known as neoplasms and the spread of these cells to other parts of the human body.

GLA is among the first essential fatty acids to be discovered largely owing to the widespread popularity of the medicinal uses of the herb evening primrose. This plant was indigenous to the American continent and grown by Native Americans to ease bruises and treat open wounds. Perhaps the most known account of its herbal value was way back in the 17th century when the plant was brought to the European continent and utilized to treat all sorts of diseases, including asthma, digestive disorders, and swelling due to infections. The discovery of gamma linolenic acid in the oils extracted from the herb explained its much reputed healing powers.

Unsaturated Fat

In recent years we have been told that saturated fats present in most canned goods and other preserved foods contribute to the levels of bad cholesterol in the bloodstream. Saturated fats actually extend the shelf life of processed foods, the reason why manufacturers choose to utilize saturated fats. However, the consequence starts to really show inside the human body when they are incorporated to the walls and membranes of cells.

Truth is unsaturated fat is indeed more susceptible to rancidity, but at the same time have a lower melting point. With that, unsaturated fat is the healthy choice inasmuch as it maintains the right levels of fluidity of cell membranes, which is what a warm-blooded animals like human beings need to support the fast and complex chemical reactions in their bodies. For one, the unsaturated fat gamma linolenic acid plays an active role in the upkeep of the dermis and the maintenance of the kidneys.

Eicosanoid Precursor

The anti-inflammatory properties displayed by the medicinal use of the herb evening primrose are attributed to gamma linolenic acid being one of the omega 6 fatty acids, which are precursors to groups of signaling molecules in the human body’s immune system. These molecules are collectively called eicosanoids that act as messengers in times of distress, and used by the body to combat pathogenic microbes. GLA promotes the releases of eicosanoids at the area of infection.

Regular consumptions of gamma linolenic acid result in the tune-up of eicosanoids-controlled functions, ultimately leading to faster relief from the swelling, pain, and redness that characterize inflammation and autoimmune diseases such as asthma, hay fever, and other allergies. GLA has long been recommended by advocates of alternative medicine largely owing to its positive effects it brings about almost right away after application minus the side effects associated with other anti-inflammatory drugs.

GLA is available in evening primrose oil or borage oil. Look for quality primrose or borage oil at you local or internet vitamin store.

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evening primrose oil

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