Linoleic acid - Nature Cures®

Linoleic acid is a polyunsaturated omega-6 fatty acid that forms the lipid component of all cell membranes in the human body. It cannot be produced by the body so must come from the diet. The word “linoleic” comes from the Greek word linon (flax). Oleic means of, relating to, or derived from oil of olive relating to oleic acid (omega-9) because saturating the omega-6 double bond produces oleic acid.

Linoleic acid reduces bone loss associated with osteoporosis. It also helps to lower serum cholesterol levels.

Omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acid balance

It has been reported that the human body ideally needs a balance of 3 or 4:1 of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids. However, the western diet is predominantly rich in omega-6. Hemp seed is the only natural food that provides this perfect balance. Flaxseeds, almonds, soybean, walnuts and olive oil do not contain this correct balance and can lead to an unhealthy imbalance if consumed daily.

External uses of linoleic acid

Although it is inflammatory when consumed, linoleic acid has anti-inflammatory, acne reductive and moisture retentive properties when applied topically on the skin which can help with psoriasis and eczema.

Symptoms of linoleic acid deficiency

Hair fall
Dry hair
Poor wound healing

Symptoms of excessive intake of linoleic acid

Arthritis
Attention deficiency disorder
Cancer
Depression
Insomnia and poor sleep patterns
Weight gain and obesity

While linoleic acid has some anti-inflammatory properties when applied topically, a diet very high in it relative to omega-3s may contribute to inflammation because it can inhibit the conversion of the omega-3 alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) into EPA and DHA.. To resolve this, extra omega-3 fatty acids should be consumed and less linoleic acid rich foods.

Natural sources of linoleic acid in alphabetical order

Amaranth
Black seeds
Brazil nuts
Buckwheat
Eggs
Chia seeds
Coconut and coconut oil
Corn oil
Cottonseed oil
Cupuaçu fruit
Evening primrose oil
Grape seed oil
Hemp seeds
Maqui berry
Pecans
Pine nuts
Poppy seed oil
Poultry
Safflower oil
Salicornia oil
Sesame seeds and oil
Soya bean oil
Spirulina
Sunflower oil
Whole grains

NOTE: Consuming excessive amounts of linoleic acid has been linked to increased inflammation, obesity, and heart disease. Seed oils are very rich in linoleic acid so caution should be taken when consuming these. Safflower oil is the highest source of linoleic acid followed by grape seed and sunflowerr seed oils.

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