GLA (gamma-linolenic acid) is one of the two main types of essential fatty acids. These are fats that are as necessary for your health as vitamins. Specifically, GLA is an omega-6 fatty acid.

Alcohol withdrawal.  Asthma. Cardiovascular diseases. Depression. Diabetes.  Fibrocystic breast disease.  Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).  Multiple sclerosis.  Premenstrual syndrome (PMS).  Raynaud’s disease.  Rheumatoid arthritis.  Schizophrenia.  Scleroderma. Sjogren’s syndrome. Skin disorders (eczema, acne, dermatitis).  Tardive dyskinesia.  Ulcerative Colitis.  Weight loss.

Osteoporosis (in combination with fish oil).

Although many people may have inadequate levels of GLA, the optimal intake for this nutrient remains unknown. The recommended therapeutic amount in problems such as arthritis, asthma, or eczema is 150 - 250 mg GLA daily. The usual dosage of GLA used to treat cyclic mastalgia or eczema is about 200 to 400 mg daily. Diabetic neuropathy is typically treated with about 400 to 600 mg daily, and rheumatoid arthritis may require as much as 2,000 to 3,000 mg (best obtained from purified GLA). GLA should be taken with food. Full benefits can only be reaped after over 6 months of intake. Some experts suggest that magnesium; zinc, vitamin C, niacin, and vitamin B6 should be taken along with GLA.

Very little GLA is found in the diet. Borage oil is the richest supplemental source (17- 25% GLA), followed by black currant oil (15-20%) and evening primrose oil (7-10%). It is also found in supplements.

Most of the safety information we have regarding GLA comes from experience with evening primrose oil. Animal studies suggest that it is completely nontoxic and non-carcinogenic. Some nausea may be experienced initially because of the oils, but this can be avoided if it is taken along with food. Mild skin rashes or acne can occur occasionally; otherwise, no problems have been noticed. Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or which is especially bothersome.

Acute Overdose: None Chronic Overdose: None

The maximum safe dosage of GLA for young children, pregnant or nursing women, or those with severe liver or kidney disease has not been established. Use GLA supplements along with epilepsy medication such as phenothiazines, with regular usage of aspirin or anticoagulants (blood thinners), or by patients having a seizure disorder only after consultation with physician. Individuals undergoing treatment for cancer should not take GLA (or any other supplement) except under physician supervision.