GLA for eczema?
Finally found something that answers my concern about using an omega-
6 for eczema. As well as recommending a specific dosage. (I should
have my order of borage oil tomorrow - yippee, can’t wait to try
this!)
Q: GLA: The Right Remedy for Eczema?
You recommend gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) for eczema. Isn’t GLA an
omega-6 fatty acid that promotes inflammation? Wouldn’t it be better
to take omega-3s?
A: Answer (Published 11/21/2002)
GLA is an unusual fatty acid found in evening primrose oil, black
currant oil and borage oil that is very hard to come by in the diet.
It has specific nourishing effects on skin, hair, and nails that are
not duplicated by omega–3 fatty acids. I recommend supplemental GLA
for eczema, an allergic skin condition common in infants, children
and young adults. Eczema produces itchy, thickened, red areas on
various parts of the body. It tends to come and go and often occurs
in conjunction with other allergic conditions such as asthma.
GLA is quite beneficial for eczema. However, it doesn’t provide
immediate relief for this and other skin problems.
Results usually take six to eight weeks.
It is true that a high ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids in the
diet promotes inflammation by favoring synthesis of pro-inflammatory
hormones (prostaglandins). But the amount of GLA needed to treat
eczema and other skin conditions (500 milligrams twice a day) is too
small to affect that ratio significantly.
Bear in mind that GLA is only part of the regimen I suggest for
eczema. Here are the other elements:
Eliminate milk and all milk products
Try visualization or hypnotherapy to take advantage of the mind/body
connection in allergic skin disorders.
Try aloe vera gel, calendula lotion or cream, and chaparral lotion on
irritated skin.