What is Buglossoides (Ahiflower) seed oil?

Buglossoides (Ahiflower) seed oil is a plant-derived oil rich in stearidonic acid (SDA), along with ALA and GLA. It is used as a vegan source of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids.

How does SDA in Buglossoides oil relate to EPA?

SDA can be converted by the body into EPA more efficiently than ALA. This makes Buglossoides oil a plant-based option for supporting EPA-related benefits.

What are the main potential benefits of Buglossoides oil?

It is commonly used to support cardiovascular health, help modulate inflammation, and support skin barrier function and hydration. Effects can vary by individual and overall diet.

What is a typical dosage range for Buglossoides (Ahiflower) oil?

A common supplemental range is 500–2000 mg per day. Follow the product label and consider discussing dosing with a clinician if you have medical conditions or take medications.

Who should be cautious with Buglossoides oil?

People with allergies to the source plant, those using anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications, and individuals preparing for surgery should use caution. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should consult a healthcare professional before use.

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Buglossoides

Moderate study situation·7/10

A higher score indicates better study conditions, but not necessarily effectiveness.

Plant-derived seed oil rich in stearidonic acid (SDA), used as a source of omega-3s for heart, inflammatory, and skin health.

Anti-inflammatory Cardiovascular Support Essential Nutrient Skin Health

dose range

500–2000 mg

Single or split into 2 daily doses

Consumption

Take with food to enhance absorption.

Fat-soluble: take with fat.

Best time

Usually taken with the first and/or second meal for best results.

Description

Buglossoides (Ahiflower) seed oil provides a unique combination of stearidonic acid (SDA), ALA, and GLA, offering a plant-based alternative to fish oil for omega-3 fatty acids. It is primarily taken to support cardiovascular health, modulate inflammation, and improve skin hydration.

benefits

Main effects with level of evidence

Moderate

Note on evidence

Supported by several clinical trials and nutritional science reviews, though long-term studies are limited.

May support cardiovascular health

Moderate

SDA from Buglossoides oil is efficiently converted to EPA, which may help lower triglycerides and improve lipid profiles, supporting overall heart health.

Particularly relevant for: adults · vegetarians · individuals seeking cardiometabolic support

S1 · NIH Office of Dietary Supplements – Omega-3 Fatty Acids Fact Sheet S2 · PubMed: Greiner et al. (2014) – Stearidonic Acid–Rich Ahiflower Oil Consumption...S3 · PubMed: Harris et al. (2018) – Ahiflower Oil Increases Plasma Long-Chain n-3...

Modulates inflammation

Limited

Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in Buglossoides oil can reduce pro-inflammatory cytokines and support anti-inflammatory balance, potentially aiding those with inflammatory conditions.

Particularly relevant for: adults · people with chronic inflammation

S3 · PubMed: Harris et al. (2018) – Ahiflower Oil Increases Plasma Long-Chain n-3...S5 · PubMed: Clinical trial on Buglossoides and inflammation (2020)

Supports skin barrier and hydration

Limited

GLA and SDA in the oil contribute to improved skin hydration and may reduce symptoms of dry or irritated skin.

Particularly relevant for: adults · individuals with eczema or dry skin

S4 · PubMed: Skin barrier and anti-inflammatory effects of SDA-rich oils (2010)

Safety & Information

Important safety information & known risks

For educational purposes only • not medical advice

Generally well-tolerated, but can increase bleeding risk and cause allergy issues in sensitive individuals.

warning notices

Mild digestive upset (nausea, diarrhea) possible at high doses.
Allergic reactions possible in those sensitive to the Boraginaceae family.
Omega-3 content may increase bleeding risk, especially if combined with antiplatelet or anticoagulant drugs.
Avoid use if allergic to plants in the Boraginaceae family.
Use with caution if taking anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications, as it may increase bleeding risk.
Avoid if you have a diagnosed bleeding disorder.
Monitor for digestive discomfort; discontinue if severe symptoms occur.

Known interactions with medications

Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin, aspirin): Increased bleeding risk.

Contraindications / special precautions

Known allergy to Boraginaceae plants
Active bleeding disorders
Concurrent use of blood-thinning medications without monitoring

interactions

Important interactions between active ingredient ↔ supplement / medication / food

May interact with blood-thinning medications due to omega-3 content.

Omega-3s may enhance anticoagulant effect.

drug · Anticoagulants

CautionModerate

Why

Omega-3 fatty acids can reduce platelet aggregation, potentially increasing bleeding risk when combined with anticoagulants or antiplatelet drugs.

recommendation

Monitor for signs of bleeding and consult a healthcare provider before combining.

S1 · NIH Office of Dietary Supplements – Omega-3 Fatty Acids Fact Sheet

mechanisms of action

Brief explanations of how it works

Efficient conversion of SDA to EPA

Buglossoides oil's stearidonic acid is converted in the body to EPA more efficiently than ALA from other plant sources, supporting EPA levels even in vegetarian diets.

S2 · PubMed: Greiner et al. (2014) – Stearidonic Acid–Rich Ahiflower Oil Consumption...S3 · PubMed: Harris et al. (2018) – Ahiflower Oil Increases Plasma Long-Chain n-3...