GLA (Borage Oil)
Fatty Acid
Also known as: Borage seed oil, Starflower oil
B
Grade B💊 1000-3000 mg borage oil (240-720mg GLA)🎯 3 primary uses🔗 1 synergy⚠️ Review warnings
Levels upNutrition+50 pts
Overview
Highest GLA content of any plant oil. More concentrated than evening primrose for skin and inflammation.
Primary Uses
Skin healthInflammationRheumatoid arthritis support
Frequently Asked About GLA (Borage Oil)
How much GLA (Borage Oil) should I take?
The typical effective range is 1000-3000 mg borage oil (240-720mg GLA). Individual needs vary based on age, body weight, diet, and goals — start at the lower end and adjust based on response. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting a new supplement.
When is the best time to take GLA (Borage Oil)?
With meals. Consistency matters more than perfect timing — pick a daily anchor (e.g. with breakfast or before bed) and stick with it.
Should I take GLA (Borage Oil) with food?
Yes.
Does GLA (Borage Oil) interact with medications?
Yes — known interactions include Same as EPO. If you take any prescription medication, talk to your doctor or pharmacist before starting GLA (Borage Oil).
What does GLA (Borage Oil) pair well with?
GLA (Borage Oil) stacks well with Fish oil — these combinations either improve absorption or work synergistically toward common goals.
Who should not take GLA (Borage Oil)?
GLA (Borage Oil) should be avoided or used with caution by people with Same as EPO. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare provider before use.
What are the side effects of GLA (Borage Oil)?
Most people tolerate GLA (Borage Oil) well. The most commonly reported side effects are Same as EPO. Side effects are usually dose-dependent — lowering the dose often resolves them.
Dosage
Typical range
1000-3000 mg borage oil (240-720mg GLA)
Timing
With meals
With food
Yes
Duration
Weeks for benefits
Special Populations
Higher GLA needs
Research & Studies
Search the literature now
We haven’t curated landmark studies for GLA (Borage Oil)yet — one-click into the primary literature here. PubMed (RCTs) is usually the highest-signal starting point.
Search GLA (Borage Oil) research
Mechanism of Action
- • 24% GLA vs 9% in EPO
- • Anti-inflammatory pathway
- • Supports skin barrier function
Evidence Quality
Evidence Grade B
Highest GLA concentration
Safety & Contraindications
Serious Warnings
- • Contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids in some products
Contraindications
- • Same as EPO
Common Side Effects
- • Same as EPO
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
Consult provider
Liver & Kidney Notes
Choose PA-free products
Interactions
💊 Medications
- • Same as EPO
🧪 Supplements
- • Same
🍽️ Food & Alcohol
- • No interactions
Stacking & Synergies
Pairs Well With
Avoid Combining With
Same cautions as EPO
Best Goal Synergies
Higher GLA needsRA support
Buying Guide
What to Look For
- • PA-free certified
- • GLA stated
Standardization Markers
GLA contentPA-free
Adulteration risk
Moderate
Practical Notes
- • Higher GLA than EPO
- • Must be PA-free
Tags
fatty acidomega-6GLAskin
More in Fatty Acid
Other ingredients in the Fatty Acid category.
Algal Oil (Vegan DHA)
Plant-based omega-3 from microalgae. Vegan source of preformed DHA and sometimes EPA.
Cod Liver Oil
Traditional omega-3 source also providing vitamins A and D. Good winter supplement but watch vitamin A intake.
DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid)
A long-chain omega-3 fatty acid critical for brain structure and function. DHA is the predominant structural fatty acid in the brain and retina.
EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid)
EPA is a long-chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid with strong evidence supporting cardiovascular and inflammatory benefits. It is commonly used for heart health, triglyceride reduction, and cognitive support.
Fish Oil (EPA/DHA)
Marine omega-3s with cardiovascular, brain, and anti-inflammatory benefits. EPA and DHA are the bioactive forms.
Flaxseed Oil (ALA)
Plant-based omega-3 (ALA) that requires conversion to EPA/DHA. Conversion is inefficient (5-15%). Better than nothing for vegans.
Last reviewed: June 2026 by the Formulate Research Team. Sources cited above; methodology and scoring criteria published here.
Cite this page
Formulate Research Team. (2026, June). GLA (Borage Oil) — Evidence-Based Supplement Guide. Formulate Supplement Encyclopedia. https://app.formulate-health.app/learning/supplements/gla-borage-oil
Educational content based on published research and our scoring methodology. Not medical advice — consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing supplements, especially if you take medications, are pregnant, or have a medical condition.