Get a naturally healthy glow from within

MANILA, Philippines - The condition of one’s skin can indicate the general state of one’s health. This is because skin problems may manifest as the first sign of underlying pathologies and chronic disease. But when nutrition is good and the body is functioning properly, good health is reflected by what is commonly described as “the skin’s healthy glow.” And thus the adage that says “beauty is not skin deep” takes on a literal meaning.

The current interest in the benefits of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), which is an omega-6 fatty acid, stems from the fact that the latter is believed to lower LDL-cholesterol ( the “bad cholesterol”), reduce inflammation, and protect against heart disease. Preliminary clinical research suggests that GLA can be useful in reducing symptoms of nerve pain (neuropathy) associated with diabetes, helping reduce the incidence of allergies, and even lowering high blood pressure levels. It has positive effects in promoting brain development, strong bone structure, stimulating hair growth, and regulating metabolism.  In menopausal women, it has gained a degree of popularity as a means to reduce the incidence of hot flashes. And by promoting overall good health as well as helping in the development of skin cells, taking GLA is one means towards having healthy and beautiful skin. GLA is found mostly in plant-based oils such as borage seed oil, evening primrose, and black currant oils. But while omega-6 fatty acids are considered “essential fatty acids” and are necessary for health, the human body cannot manufacture them. Instead, this has to be ingested as food.

The GLA-containing borage plant, particularly, has long been used in traditional medicine. Naturopathic practitioners use it for the regulation of metabolism and relief of both pre-menstrual syndrome and menopausal symptoms. Also known as starflower because of the shape of its blue flowers, borage leaves, which taste like cucumber, as well as the blue blossoms, are added to salads or used as a garnish in the cuisine of several European countries.  While it would be ideal to take fresh borage as food, however, its cultivation has not gained ground in the Philippines. Extra precaution should be taken by those taking anti-platelet aggregants or blood-thinning products such as aspirin since bruising or bleeding may result. Starflower or borage oil is not recommended for those with liver problems (because the oil contains a substance called amabiline which may damage the liver), and drug interactions can occur for those who have undergone organ transplant and patients on phenothiazines (for schizophrenia.) Some side effects such as bloating, belching, indigestion, diarrhea, and nausea can result with borage oil. For those without contraindications, however, the effects of borage oil are largely beneficial. 

Thus, the recent introduction of a product called Blooming-G should be welcome news for those who believe in the benefits of omega 6 fatty acids in borage oil. Introduced by Bauch Philippines Laboratories Corporation, Blooming-G has been touted to be “a nutraceutical and organic supplement developed to deliver the wellness and beautifying benefits of gamma linoleic (GLA) or omega-6 for today’s active women.”

“Blooming–G is developed to help today’s women live happier, more meaningful lives through its health and beauty benefits,” says Florinda San Antonio, founder of Bauch Laboratories. “When a woman feels good about herself, she gains confidence to do more and stand out,” noting that the product is organic. ”We at Bauch are concerned with the general health and well-being of every Filipino and that is why we offer a broad selection of consumer health products to improve the quality of life. The consumer healthcare business brings an added dynamic dimension to our company. But, as with all of our products, the driving force behind our consumer healthcare business is science.”

Popular actress Sunshine Cruz has been tapped to endorse the product. “With Blooming-G, I’ve noticed a gradual improvement in my skin,” she says. Apart from the product, she recommends a healthy lifestyle. “Eat fruits and vegetables, get enough sleep. Spend time with loved ones because they bring out the healthy glow in you,” she shares.