The essentials of essential oils. (wellness).(omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids)(Brief Article)

The world of nutritional oil supplements is an eclectic one, filled with names ranging from the straightforward -"fish oil" -- to the very nearly romantic -- "shades of evening primrose." But just how essential are "essential oils?" And what key factors should you consider when looking at their potential health benefits?

The term essential oil refers to fatty acids that the body can't produce itself, so it must obtain them from other sources. These acids are grouped into two major families: omega-6s and omega-3s.

FROM BAD TO GOOD

There's clinical agreement about the overabundance of omega-6 fatty acids in the average American's diet. It's not that omega-6s are "bad." After all, they're essential nutrients that help stimulate hair and skin growth and regulate metabolism, among other things. Anne-Louise Gittleman, MS, nutritionist and author of 16 books--including The New York Times bestseller, The Fat-Flush Diet--says that proper levels of one omega-6, gamma linolenic acid (GLA), can also function as a PMS regulator, immune system strengthener and arthritis inhibitor.

The problem is that, while the American diet does contain an overabundance of omega-6 sources, the oil is most commonly found in processed shortenings and vegetable oils, which the body is incapable of metabolizing into a useful form. It's like putting diesel fuel into a gasoline-fueled car. The tank may be full, but the car can't make use of the gas.

Hence, the need for a GLA-laden, omega-6 supplement in your diet. A number of oils contain GLA, including black currant and evening primrose. But borage oil contains the highest concentration, up to 25 percent. Most experts recommend between 1 and 3 grams daily, but--as is the case with all oil supplements--dosage depends on the nature of your existing diet.

THE ALPHAs OF OMEGA-3