Alpha-Linolenic acid: A Pharmacologically Active Ingredient from Nature

Abstract

Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) is an essential omega 3 fatty acid which is mostly found in plants. ALA is not synthesized in the human body due to this reason, it should be included in diet from various sources such as flaxseed, walnut, canola oil etc. ALA is a precursor of other omega 3 fatty acids namely Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA) and Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA). These two fatty acids are derived from animal sources and are documented with many health benefits. Further, various studies have evidently supported the pharmacological activities of ALA such as neuroprotective, cardioprotective, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, hepatoprotective, antioxidant and anti-diabetic. The beneficial effects of ALA can be attributed due to its bioavailability which is almost complete like other fatty acids. This review covers the pharmacological actions of ALA and its bioavailability and metabolism with the help of available literature under one roof.