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Linolenic acid is a polyunsaturated fatty acid and one of the most important organic compounds in the human body. Since the body cannot synthesize it on its own, it needs to obtain this acid from food. There are three prominent types of linolenic acid:
Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA)
Alpha-linolenic acid is an essential omega-3 fatty acid. It mainly occurs in plant sources like flaxseeds, chia seeds, walnuts, and hemp seeds, and leafy green vegetables. Humans need ALA because the body cannot produce it. Once ingested, ALA can be converted into other omega-3 fatty acids like EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid).
Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA)
Like ALA, GLA is also a type of linolenic acid. While ALA is common in plant oils, GLA mainly arises from evening primrose oil, borage oil, and black currant seed oil. Unlike ALA, which the body cannot produce, GLA can be synthesized from another fatty acid known as linoleic acid.
Stearidonic acid (SDA)
Stearidonic acid is another linolenic acid, though it occurs less frequently compared to ALA and GLA. This fat acid can be found in some plant oils like hempseed oil and in certain fish. More than that, stearidonic acid can be produced from ALA through a series of biochemical reactions. While the body can convert ALA into other active omega-3 fatty acids, the conversion rate tends to be low. That's why it's recommended to supplement ALA directly from sources rich in EPA and DHA.
Linolenic acid is mainly used in the healthcare and medicine sector. It is integrated into various treatments and therapies. Below are some of these applications:
Dietary supplements
Many supplements have either alpha-linolenic or gamma-linolenic acid as a key ingredient. These supplements are typically marketed as omega-3 or omega-6 supplements. They help promote heart health and support overall body wellness. They can also boost the immune system and improve skin health due to their anti-inflammatory properties.
Pharmaceutical formulations
Because of their ability to manage inflammation, improve circulation, and promote overall health, GLA and ALA are often incorporated into pharmaceutical formulations. These supplements are often used in managing chronic diseases such as arthritis, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes.
Medical foods
Alpha-linolenic acid and gamma-linolenic acid are used in medical food products targeted at patients with specific dietary needs. For example, patients recovering from illness or surgery may need foods high in these fatty acids. They promote healing and support immune functions. Likewise, patients with metabolic disorders or individuals unable to absorb nutrients effectively are given medical foods with ALA and GLA to provide essential nutrients and support metabolic functions.
Cosmetics and skincare products
As mentioned earlier, GLA has skin health benefits. For this reason, it's a common ingredient in skincare products such as lotions, creams, and serums targeted at moisturizing and nourishing the skin. Primrose oil for skin is one of the most popular oils with GLA in its composition. GLA enhances skin elasticity and reduces signs of aging. That's why it is often labeled as anti-aging and skin renewal products.
Veterinary medicine
In veterinary medicine, linolenic acid is part of dietary formulations and supplements intended to promote the health of pets and support veterinary treatments. Just like in humans, these fatty acids in pet supplements promote cardiovascular health and reduce inflammation in pets with arthritis or joint issues.
Industry formulations for industrial lubricants and coatings
In industrial applications, ALA and GLA are used to produce eco-friendly lubricants and biobased formulations. These are sustainable alternatives to traditional petroleum-based products. Additionally, linolenic acid is utilized in the manufacturing of coatings and adhesives, particularly those aimed at providing waterproof or corrosion-resistant properties.
Linolenic acid, particularly alpha-linolenic acid and gamma-linolenic acid, have varying specifications when it comes to their chemical compositions. Below are the differences:
Chemical structure
Alpha-linolenic acid has a chemical structure with 18 carbon atoms and three double bonds in the omega-3 configuration. The double bonds are located between the first and third, fifth and sixth, and seventh and eighth carbon atoms. This structure is responsible for ALA's unique properties and benefits. On the other hand, gamma-linolenic acid has a similar chemical structure with 18 carbon atoms as well. However, GLA only has two double bonds, which are located between the 6th and 7th and 11th and 12th carbon atoms. This gives GLA the omega-6 designation.
Sourconces
Alpha-linolenic acid is primarily found in plant-based sources such as flaxseed oil, chia seeds, hemp seeds, walnuts, and Brussels sprouts. While the body can convert ALA into other omega-3 fatty acids, the conversion rate tends to differ from person to person and depends on various factors like hormonal status and overall health. GLA, on the other hand, is predominantly obtained from evening primrose oil, borage oil, and black currant seed oil.
Biological functions
As mentioned, alpha-linolenic acid can be converted into other omega-3 fatty acids like EPA and DHA. These compounds are important for brain health, inflammation regulation, and overall cardiovascular health. GLA doesn't require conversion to exert its benefits.
Health benefits
Both fatty acids have health benefits. For instance, ALA is associated with heart health and reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease. On the other hand, GLA is popular for its anti-inflammatory properties. It supports skin health, regulates hormones, and reduces symptoms of eczema and dermatitis.
Choosing the right type of linolenic acid can be a tough call. There are a plethora of factors business owners should consider when stocking up on this product. Here are some of them:
Type of linolenic acid
As discussed earlier, alpha-linolenic acid and gamma-linolenic acid are two types of shock fatty acids. While they have similar compositions, they serve different benefits. Alpha-linolenic acid is found in plant oils, seeds, and nuts. It's an omega-3 fatty acid that helps support heart and brain health. It's often found in supplements and foods like flaxseed oil and chia seeds. Gamma-linolenic acid is often found in evening primrose oil and borage oil. It's an omega-6 fatty acid that helps improve skin health and ease inflammation. It's often found in skincare products. Knowing these two types of fatty acids helps buyers stock the right products that their target customers are likely to purchase.
Source
Both linoleic acids are extracted from different sources. Alpha-linolenic acid is commonly obtained from flaxseed oil, chia seeds, hemp seeds, walnuts, and perilla oil. GLA, on the other hand, is mainly extracted from evening primrose oil, borage oil, and black currant seed oil. Some oils provide ALA exclusively, while others offer both ALA and GLA. For instance, flaxseed oil provides ALA, while evening primrose oil provides GLA.
Purity and quality
When selecting suppliers, buyers should prioritize products and oils that offer high-quality linolenic acid. They should ensure the acid is free from contaminants like heavy metals and pesticides. More than that, buyers should look for products with proper certifications. They should also consider the manufacturing processes used to obtain the acid. Suppliers who offer cold-pressed evening primrose oil tend to produce high-quality GLA. Cold pressing doesn't use heat or chemicals and this helps preserve the oil's beneficial properties.
Formulation compatibility
This is especially important for businesses in the cosmetic and skincare industry. Buyers should stock oils containing ALA and GLA that are compatible with different formulations. For example, oils with high linolenic acid content should be easily blendable with other ingredients. Likewise, they shouldn't have adverse reactions with other compounds.
Market demands and trends
Business owners should analyze their target market to determine what kinds of linolenic acid products are in demand. Are their customers interested in alpha-linolenic supplements or omega-6 fatty acids for skincare? Are they utilizing evening primrose oil benefits for skin and hair health? After determining market interest, buyers should stock oil products that cater to their customers' needs while rounding it up with products from multiple reputable manufacturers. For business owners who are just starting out, choose a product that can be easily marketed and that offers unique benefits to the customers.
A1. Linolenic acid has numerous benefits—both on its own and as a precursor for other fatty acids. Alpha-linolenic acid, for instance, helps improve heart health and reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases and inflammation. Also, the body can convert it into EPA and DHA, two important omega-3 fatty acids that support brain and overall body health. Gamma-linolenic acid, on the other hand, is popular for its skin health benefits. It helps reduce inflammation and eczema and improves overall skin health. It can also ease the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome by regulating hormones and reducing breast tenderness.
A2. Yes, evening primrose oil is rich in gamma-linolenic acid, a type of omega-6 fatty acid. It is extracted from the seeds of evening primrose (Oenothera biennis), a flowering plant from the northern hemisphere. Evening primrose oil has been used for centuries for its numerous skin and body benefits. Evening primrose oil can be taken in liquid form or as capsules and softgels for easier consumption. Although rare, potential side effects of evening primrose oil include nausea, diarrhea, and headache. It’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before using evening primrose oil.
A3. Alpha-linolenic acid is type of linolenic acid. It is an essential omega-3 fatty acid found in plant oils, seeds, and nuts. Linolenic acid, however, refers to the broader class of fatty acids, which includes alpha-linolenic and gamma-linolenic acids.
A4. Linoleic acid is commonly found in vegetable and seed oils such as sunflower, corn, soy, and flaxseed oils. Other sources of linoleic acid include nuts and seeds, such as walnuts, sunflower seeds, and pumpkin seeds. Chocolate also contains linoleic acid, as well as poultry fat found in chicken and turkey.
