Evening Primrose Oil (EPO)
and Gamma Linolenic Acid (GLA)
Evening Primrose Oil, one of the most effective sources of Gamma Linolenic Acid GLA). Research has shown that certain fatty acids, particularly GLA, are necessary for the normal structure of cell membranes, and are converted by the body into prostaglandins: short-lived hormones that play a role in a wide variety of body functions.
Such functions include the reproductive cycle, the maintenance of hormonal balance and helping blood flow to all tissues. GLA is an essential element of skin structure, and together with Vitamin E helps maintain smooth, healthy-looking skin (1). In addition, these important fatty acids may also help with a whole range of other health benefits.
Evening Primrose Oil may be of particular help to women around the time of menstruation because it helps regulate prostaglandins. These hormone-like messengers can help regulate body processes such as the reproductive system and the maintenance of hormonal balance. Evening Primrose Oil has been shown to have a beneficial effect on hormones involved in the menstrual cycle (2)
Area
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EFA Benefit
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Hair and skin
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EFAs give skin and hair cells greater fluidity and flexibility. The skins cutaneous permeability barrier is maintained, thus preventing trans-dermal water loss that results in dry skin. |
Circulatory system
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EFAs are important in oxygen transfer, red blood cell production, and control of nutrient passage through cell membranes. EFAs also assist in preventing thrombosis and high blood pressure. |
Mind and Nervous
system
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About 30% of the dry weight of the brain and eyes are comprised of EFAs. A supply is crucial for retinal and brain cell function. EFAs can help revitalise nerves. |
Endocrine system
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EFAs can be helpful in maintaining hormonal balance. |
Digestive system
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EFAs may help maintain normal gastro-intestinal function. |
Musculoskeletal system
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EFAs may help maintain mobility, and can assist the body in absorbing calcium in the bones, nails and teeth, thus making a healthy skeleton. |
Reproductive system
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During pregnancy, EFAs are vital for the eye and brain growth of a fetus, for placenta growth, and developing breast glands. GLA has been shown to have a role maintaining a healthy prostate gland. |
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Barlean's Organic Essential Woman is not only an excellent food supplement. It is also an ideal, balanced oil for women with premenstrual syndrome, pre, peri, and post menopausal complaints and is eminently suitable for the prevention of breast cancer.
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Barlean's Omega Twin with Flax and Borage Oils
Barlean's Omega Twin is a significant advancement in essential fatty acid nutrition. This product combines our organic flaxseed oil, the world's richest source of alpha linolenic acid, (LNA) Omega-3 with our borage oil, the world's richest source of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) Omega-6. A special synergism exists between these two important fatty acids that may potentiate their effects. Both LNA and GLA are required in balancing the body's hormonal response to conditions associated with allergy, inflammation, pain and swelling.
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