Blackcurrant seed oil

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Blackcurrant seed oil is derived from the seeds of Ribes nigrum (blackcurrant, or European currant). It contains an unusually high amount of omega-6 (15-20 percent) as well as a high amount of omega-3 fatty acids (12-14 percent). It also contains linoleic acid as well as 2-4 percent stearidonic acid. There are some indications that black currant seed oil is anti-inflammatory and cardioprotective.^[1] In European folk medicine, black currant once had a considerable reputation for controlling diarrhea, promoting urine output (as a diuretic) and reducing arthritic and rheumatic pains.^[2] It is primarily used medicinally and as a diet supplement.

[edit] References

1. ^ Blackcurrant Seed Oil. from the PDRHealth Web site
2. ^ Black Currant Seed Oil (Ribes nigrum). from the World Health Web site