DrFeb
Health Guide

Ethyl Linoleate

Ethyl Linoleate is a form of Linoleic Acid, an Omega-6 essential fatty acid. You might see it listed as 'Ethyl Linoleate' or simply 'Linoleic Acid' on labels. Unlike regular fats your body can make, this is 'essential'—you *must* get it from food or supplements. It acts as a building block for your cell membranes and helps keep your skin plump and hydrated. Think of it as the 'mortar' that holds the 'bricks' of your cells together, ensuring they function correctly and stay healthy.
Evidence BasedDietary Supplement
Ethyl Linoleate
VERIFIED SOURCE

Bio-Activity Analysis

Omega-6 to Omega-3 Balance

SCIENTIFIC DATA VISUALIZATION

Y-Axis
Ratio (Ideal is 4:1 or lower)
Source Type →

Health Benefits & Sources

Why You Need It

  • Skin Barrier Repair: It restores the skin's moisture barrier, preventing water loss and protecting against irritants.
  • Cell Health: It is a vital structural component of every cell membrane in your body.
  • Hormone Production: It helps produce prostaglandins, hormone-like substances that regulate blood pressure and immune function.

Deep Dive

Ethyl Linoleate is chemically known as the ethyl ester of linoleic acid. While your body can't synthesize it, it relies on it heavily. It converts into arachidonic acid, which is crucial for brain function and inflammation response.

Important Note: While essential, Omega-6s should be balanced with Omega-3s. Most modern diets are already too high in Omega-6. Focus on getting this from whole foods rather than isolated supplements to maintain that natural balance.

Natural Food Sources

You rarely find 'Ethyl Linoleate' listed as a standalone item in nature; instead, you consume it as part of the natural oils found in plants and seeds. The body processes these fats effectively.

FoodAmount (Approx per 100g)% Daily Value
Sunflower Seeds15g - 20g~35%
Walnuts10g - 12g~25%
Safflower Oil25g - 30g~55%
Tofu (Firm)2g - 3g~6%
Spinach0.1g<1%

Supplementation

Dosage: There is no official RDA for Ethyl Linoleate specifically. However, the Adequate Intake (AI) for total Linoleic Acid is 12-17g per day for adults.

Who should take it?

  • People with specific skin conditions like eczema (under medical guidance).
  • Those on extremely low-fat diets.

Warning: Do not take concentrated Omega-6 supplements if you have a history of seizures or take blood thinners without consulting a doctor.

Top Food Sources

Sunflower Seeds
17g per 100g
Walnuts
11g per 100g
Safflower Oil
28g per 100g
Pine Nuts
9g per 100g
Tofu
3g per 100g

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, 'Vitamin F' is an old term for essential fatty acids, specifically Linoleic Acid (Omega-6) and Alpha-Linolenic Acid (Omega-3).
Yes, it is used in cosmetics as an emollient. However, pure oil may be too heavy for oily skin. Look for it as an ingredient in moisturizers.
Your body cannot make 'essential' fats. If you don't eat them, your cells become stiff and your skin barrier breaks down.
Safflower oil is high in Linoleic Acid. It has a high smoke point, making it okay for cooking, but try not to reuse it multiple times to avoid oxidation.

Safety & Side Effects

Ethyl Linoleate is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) when consumed in amounts typically found in food.

Safety Checklist:

  • Chemical Stability: As an ester, it can oxidize (go rancid) if not stored properly (cool, dark place). Ingesting rancid oils creates free radicals.
  • Inflammation Risk: High doses of isolated Omega-6 can promote inflammation. If you supplement, ensure you are taking Omega-3s (Fish oil/Flax) to balance it out.
  • Topical Use: If used on skin, it is generally safe but can be comedogenic (pore-clogging) for acne-prone skin types.

Scientific References

  • [1]Journal of Investigative Dermatology - 'Essential fatty acids and the skin'
  • [2]National Institutes of Health (NIH) - 'Linoleic Acid Fact Sheet for Health Professionals'
  • [3]Nutrients Journal - 'Dietary Linoleic Acid and Health Outcomes'