One of the essential fatty acids, found in linseed and other natural oils.
Two forms: (1) α-linolenic, and (2) ϒ-linolenic. Linolenic acid is an essential fatty acid. α-Linolenic is a member of the n-3 or ω3 family of fatty acids, while ϒ-linolenic is a member of the n-6 or ω6 family of fatty acids.
Linolenic acid is available as two different structures, both with 18 carbons and 3 double bonds. Alpha-linolenic acid is an omega-3 fatty acid that is essential in the diet; whereas gamma-linolenic acid is an omega-6 fatty acid that can be synthesized from linoleic acid by the addition of a double bond by the delta-9-desaturase enzyme. Richest dietary sources of alpha-linolenic acid include a variety of vegetable oils such as soybean, flaxseed, linseed, and walnut oils. Alpha-linolenic acid deficiency can produce dermatitis, decreased growth or weight loss, organ dysfunction, and abnormal reproductive status.
A necessary fatty acid present in fish oils and specific plant seed oils, linolenic acid is employed by the body to create prostaglandins. This acid can be generated by the body from linoleic acid attained through the diet.