Evening Primrose Oil / 1300 mg

Evening Primrose Oil may be useful to fortify diet with GLA and support immune function

DESCRIPTION

Evening Primrose Oil provides a source of the omega-6 fatty acid gamma linolenic acid (GLA). The evening primrose oil used in this formula is derived from pure, expeller pressed, hexane-free oil. Hexane is a solvent that may be used to maximize oil extraction but is toxic. Expeller pressing produces little to no heat, which, in turn, helps maintain the integrity of the fatty acids.

FUNCTIONS

Gamma linolenic acid is a fatty acid found primarily in vegetable oils, one of the richest sources being evening primrose oil. The human body produces GLA from linolenic acid, however, a lack of GLA can occur when there is a reduction in the efficiency of this process (such as occurs in aging populations) or in disease states where there is excessive consumption of GLA metabolites. Gamma linolenic acid is the precursor to a class compounds known as prostaglandins, specifically prostaglandin E1 (PGE1). Among their functions, prostaglandins regulate and can be either pro-inflammatory or anti-inflammatory. Gamma linolenic acid favors the formation of the latter, thus supporting healthy immune function. Although further research is needed, GLA might help to support a healthy immune response for conditions associated with aberrant immune function, such as eczema. Other studies suggest that GLA may help with neuropathies associated with diabetes.