Black Currant Seed Oil
Commonly used for
Women's HealthInflammation
Where to Buy
Our experts personally review each product we recommend for quality and cost effectiveness.
The cheapest product is usually low quality, but more expensive doesn’t always mean better.
The cheapest product is usually low quality, but more expensive doesn’t always mean better.
Wellness uses
Skin, joint, and hormonal support
This is anecdotal, and there isn't strong clinical evidence that it works for everyone.
What is it? / Overview
Black currant seed oil provides GLA plus some omega-3 ALA, feeding the same anti-inflammatory eicosanoid pathway as evening primrose and borage oil, but it's the least-validated of the three GLA oils in humans, with essentially no strong standalone outcome trials.
How is it used? / Administration
Form: Ribes nigrum seed oil (contains GLA ~15-20% plus some ALA)
Typical dose studied: 1.5-3 g/day; no validated dose
Timing: With food
Part of the GLA-oil family (alongside evening primrose and borage); standalone evidence doesn't support a strong recommendation.
How well does it work? / Evidence
? Emerging / limited evidence
Who should avoid it?
Avoid with: Breastfeeding; Epilepsy / Seizure disorder; Bleeding disorder / Coagulopathy
Interacts with: Anticoagulants, antiplatelets -- theoretical additive bleeding risk
Already taking it? Least-studied of the GLA oils -- reasonable to continue if well tolerated, but don't expect trial-backed benefit for skin, joint, or hormonal claims.
Research & references
Sharifi M et al. (2024). The Effect of Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Oil on Inflammatory Diseases: A Systematic Review of Clinical Trials. BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies.
Disclosure: Knozela is a participant in the Amazon Associates affiliate program. Some "Where to buy" links on this page are affiliate links -- if you make a purchase through them, Knozela may earn a commission at no additional cost to you.