Source of Gamma-Linolenic Acid

In our millenia-long passage from hunter-gatherers to supermarket shoppers, our diet has undergone profound changes. Specifically, we no longer consume the unprocessed foods that contain gamma linolenic acid (GLA). It is the intake of GLA that creates the soothing prostaglandins that are so important in promoting the fluidity of cellular membranes for proper nutrient absorption, brain function, skin health and immune system support. The borage plant (Borago officinalis), also known as starflower, is indigenous to southern Europe, but now well established here in North America. This small, rough-leafed botanical with blue, star-shaped flowers has recently been rediscovered as the world's finest source of GLA.

What Is GLA?
GLA is an essential fatty acid (EFA). As the name implies, EFAs are essential in our diet. And as our bodies can't manufacture them, we must get them from food. Unfortunately, their presence in today's processed American diet is dangerously low. If we analyze the diets of our hunter-gatherer ancestors, we find that their primary dietary source of EFAs was wild game, which is much higher in EFAs than today's domesticated and process-fed animals. Since we evolved on the hunter-gatherer diet for millennia, and the present American diet has only been around a few generations, it makes sense that our bodies will benefit by approximating the positive aspects of our genetically programmed diet requirements as closely as possible.

The problem, however, is in our inability to pick up a mastodon rump roast, or other such wild game, during the commute home. Fortunately, Planetary Herbals Borage Super GLA 300 seed oil is now available.

How does GLA work?
As an essential fatty acid, GLA is a building block the body uses to ultimately produce and store energy, and is used in every cell of the body. EFAs help to make up our cellular membranes and act as "gate-keepers" for our cells. Having healthy cell membranes is crucial, as every cell must have the ability to take in the proper nutrients and keep out metabolic toxins. EFAs maintain the fluidity and permeability of our cellular membranes, promoting nutrient absorption. As the brain contains a high percentage of fatty tissue, EFAs also promote healthy brain function.

One of the most important roles of EFAs is the production of eicosanoids, short-lived regulatory messenger molecules inside our cells. These hormonelike substances regulate a variety of metabolic processes in the body, including blood pressure balance, smooth muscle contraction, proper blood clotting, blood vessel flexibility and immune system regulation.

Directions: 1 or 2 softgels daily with meals.

Ingredients: 1 Softgel supplies:
Calories 15
Total Fat 1 g
Borage Seed Oil Yielding: 1.3 g
Linoleic Acid (LA) 477 mg
gamma-Linolenic Acid (GLA) 300 mg
Oleic Acid 194 mg
Palmitic Acid 112 mg

Other Ingredients: gelatin, glycerin, and purified water.

Warning: If you are pregnant, may become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult your health care professional before using this product. Do not use if either tamper-evident seal is broken or missing. Keep out of the reach of children. Store in a cool, dry place.