May help with dry skin and mild inflammation, but benefits are often overstated.
Effective Dose
200-400mg GLA daily
Onset
2-4 weeks
Cost
Budget
Cycle
Not necessary to cycle. Can be taken continuously.
Why not higher?
7 things you need to know
What it does
May help with dry skin and mild inflammation, but benefits are often overstated.
Worth it?
4/10. GLA might offer modest benefits for specific conditions like dry skin and mild inflammation, but the evidence is not consistently strong, and many purported benefits lack robust support. Effects are subtle and not universally experienced.
How much to take
200-400mg GLA daily
Price
Cheap (under $15/month)
How fast it works
Takes 2 to 4 weeks to notice
Safety
Check if: may interact with blood-thinning medications., possible gastrointestinal discomfort in some individuals.
What people say
Users may experience slightly improved skin hydration. Some report reduced joint stiffness or discomfort, but this is not consistent.
Evening Primrose, Borage, and Black Currant plants were traditionally used by Native Americans for various medicinal purposes.
"Users may experience slightly improved skin hydration. Some report reduced joint stiffness or discomfort, but this is not consistent."
Research backing for this ingredient
Some evidence, more research needed
45+
Yes
Mixed opinions in scientific community
Reduces symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis (pain and stiffness)
Systematic Review of 7 RCTs
Improves symptoms of Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema)
Meta-analysis of 27 studies (mixed/negative results)
Improves mild diabetic neuropathy
2 RCTs (n=111 total)
"While GLA is a precursor to anti-inflammatory compounds, its conversion rate in the body can be variable and limited. Clinical trials show mixed results, with some studies showing benefits for specific conditions, while others find no significant effects. Overhyped due to early positive findings."
GLA is an omega-6 fatty acid that the body converts into substances that reduce inflammation and support skin health. Supplementation may be helpful if your body doesn't produce enough of these substances on its own.
Products below minimum dose are likely ineffective
When
Any time
How
200-400mg GLA daily
Food
Take with meals to enhance absorption.
Noticeable effects, if any, typically take several weeks of consistent use.
Not necessary to cycle. Can be taken continuously.
Check for specific interactions.
GLA (Gamma-Linolenic Acid) is categorized as a fatty acid.
Scientific consensus score: 5/10.
Evidence quality: MODERATE.
Add GLA (Gamma-Linolenic Acid) to your stack analyzer or compare it with other ingredients.
Not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider.