Coniferous plants play an important role in ecology and medicine, and their oils are widely used in the food and cosmetics industries. Among them, Siberian cedar stands out for its content of unique biologically active substances, which significantly exceed the indicators of other species.
Siberian cedar stands out among conifers for the high content of pinolenic acid in its cedar nut oil, reaching up to 26%, which significantly exceeds other species. This rare fatty acid has a powerful anti-inflammatory effect and supports the immune system by improving the functioning of immune cells. Thanks to these properties, Siberian cedar products are a valuable source of biologically active substances that promote good health
Siberian cedar – champion in pinolenic acid content
Pinolenic acid is a rare isomer of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) found in plants of the cedar family. But here's the thing: the content of this valuable acid varies greatly from species to species.
This is where Siberian cedar demonstrates its superiority. In cedar oil obtained from its nuts, the percentage of pinolenic acid can reach an impressive 26%. For comparison, in oil from the nuts of, for example, Italian pine, its content barely reaches 1%.
Why is this important?
Pinolenic acid is not just a trendy name. It has a number of unique properties that make it a valuable component for health[1].
Anti-inflammatory effect: pinolenic acid affects the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines (proteins that trigger and maintain inflammation) and simultaneously stimulates the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines. This helps restore balance and “calm” the inflammatory response. It is also capable of suppressing the activity of enzymes such as cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), which play a key role in the synthesis of inflammatory mediators. This is akin to turning off the “tap” from which inflammation flows.
Immune support: pinolenic acid promotes the normal functioning of various types of immune cells, such as lymphocytes (T and B cells), macrophages, and natural killer cells. These cells are the “soldiers” of our immune system, and pinolenic acid helps them to be more effective in fighting pathogens [2].
Thus, when you choose products made from Siberian cedar, you are not just getting a useful coniferous plant, but a real concentrate of unique substances that can make a significant contribution to your health and well-being!
