Black Currant Oil is an excellent source of gamma linolenic acid (GLA), containing 18-percent GLA. In addition, it contains 9-percent stearidonic acid, a precursor to the omega-3 fatty acid EPA. GLA formation in the body is hindered by numerous factors, including aging, nutrient deficiency, trans-fatty acids, hydrogenated oils, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption.
GLA has been found to provide a wide variety of health-related benefits, including support of skin and other connective tissue, female reproductive health, eye health, and cognitive health. GLA may also promote joint health. Because of the smooth-muscle relaxing effects of GLA, it has been found to benefit female well-being during menses.
In addition, GLA plus EPA may promote bone health. A placebo-controlled trial examined the effect of either a combination of GLA/EPA or placebo (coconut oil) for 18 months on 65 elderly women; the women were also given 600 mg calcium carbonate daily. After 18 months, femoral bone density increased by 4.7 percent and lumbar spine density remained the same in the treatment group, while in the placebo group femoral bone density remained the same and lumbar spine density decreased 3.2 percent.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease.
