# Cold-Pressed Camelina Oil (Camelina sativa)

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/cold-pressed-camelina-oil
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-03-31
**Evidence Score:** 2 / 10
**Category:** Seed Oils
**Also Known As:** Camelina sativa oil, False flax oil, Wild flax oil, German sesame oil, Linseed dodder oil, Gold-of-pleasure oil, Leindotter oil

## Overview

Cold-pressed camelina oil is derived from Camelina sativa seeds and is exceptionally rich in alpha-linolenic acid (ALA, an omega-3 fatty acid) and vitamin E tocopherols. Its primary mechanism involves modulating lipid [metabolism](/ingredients/condition/weight-management) through ALA-driven reductions in hepatic triglyceride synthesis and LDL oxidation, improving [cardiovascular](/ingredients/condition/heart-health) and [liver health](/ingredients/condition/detox) markers.

## Health Benefits

• Reduces total cholesterol by 11.64 mg/dL when taken at doses under 30g/day for more than 8 weeks (meta-analysis evidence) • Improves [liver function](/ingredients/condition/detox) markers and lipid profiles in NAFLD patients (RCT evidence) • Significantly elevates serum alpha-linolenic acid concentrations in older adults (pilot RCT evidence) • May improve glycemia and reduce [oxidative stress](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) in metabolic disorders (preliminary clinical evidence) • Supports [cardiovascular health](/ingredients/condition/heart-health) through favorable alterations in plasma lipid mediator profiles (RCT evidence)

## Mechanism of Action

Camelina oil's high ALA content (35–45% of fatty acids) is converted in part to EPA via delta-6-desaturase and elongase enzymes, shifting eicosanoid production away from pro-inflammatory arachidonic acid pathways toward [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) prostaglandin E3 and leukotriene B5 series. Its gamma-tocopherol and tocopherol-rich vitamin E profile inhibits [lipid peroxidation](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) by scavenging peroxyl radicals, protecting LDL particles from oxidative modification. Together, these actions reduce hepatic VLDL secretion and modulate PPAR-alpha signaling to improve lipid clearance.

## Clinical Summary

A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials found that camelina oil supplementation at doses under 30g/day for more than 8 weeks reduced total cholesterol by a mean of 11.64 mg/dL, representing moderate-strength evidence from pooled RCT data. A dedicated RCT in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) patients demonstrated significant improvements in [liver function](/ingredients/condition/detox) markers including ALT and AST, alongside favorable lipid profile changes. A pilot study in older adults confirmed that camelina oil consumption significantly elevates serum alpha-linolenic acid concentrations, supporting its bioavailability in an at-risk population. Overall, the evidence base is promising but limited by modest sample sizes and relatively short intervention durations, warranting larger confirmatory trials.

## Nutritional Profile

Cold-pressed camelina oil is composed of approximately 99% fat (total lipids ~100 g per 100 mL), with negligible protein, carbohydrate, and fiber content. Its fatty acid profile is distinctively rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), comprising roughly 50–60% of total fatty acids. Key fatty acid composition per 100 g oil: • Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA, omega-3, C18:3n-3): ~30–40 g (exceptionally high among seed oils, one of the richest plant-based ALA sources) • Linoleic acid (LA, omega-6, C18:2n-6): ~15–23 g • Oleic acid (omega-9, C18:1n-9): ~12–20 g • Gondoic acid (C20:1n-9): ~12–16 g (unusually high for a seed oil) • Erucic acid (C22:1n-9): ~2–4 g • Palmitic acid (C16:0): ~5–7 g • Stearic acid (C18:0): ~2–3 g. The omega-6 to omega-3 ratio is favorable at approximately 0.5:1 to 0.7:1. Bioactive compounds and micronutrients: • Tocopherols (vitamin E): ~70–110 mg per 100 g total, predominantly gamma-tocopherol (~50–80 mg/100 g), with lesser amounts of alpha-tocopherol (~5–15 mg/100 g), delta-tocopherol (~3–8 mg/100 g), and beta-tocopherol (~1–3 mg/100 g); provides approximately 50–100% of daily vitamin E needs per tablespoon depending on form • Phytosterols: ~300–500 mg per 100 g, including beta-sitosterol (~150–250 mg), campesterol (~80–130 mg), and stigmasterol (~20–40 mg), which compete with intestinal cholesterol absorption • Carotenoids: ~2–5 mg per 100 g (primarily lutein and beta-carotene, contributing to its golden-yellow color) • Phospholipids: ~1–2% of crude oil • Polyphenolic compounds: trace amounts (~10–30 mg GAE per 100 g), including flavonoids and phenolic acids contributing to [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) capacity • Squalene: ~10–30 mg per 100 g • Coenzyme Q10: trace amounts detected. Vitamin K1 (phylloquinone): ~50–100 µg per 100 g (estimated, typical of plant seed oils). Caloric density: ~884 kcal per 100 g (~120 kcal per tablespoon, 14 g). Bioavailability notes: ALA bioavailability from camelina oil is high due to its triglyceride-bound form, though endogenous conversion of ALA to EPA is limited (~5–10%) and to DHA is very low (~0.5–2%) in humans. The high gamma-tocopherol content, while a potent lipophilic antioxidant, is less bioactive as a vitamin E source compared to alpha-tocopherol due to preferential hepatic binding of alpha-tocopherol by alpha-tocopherol transfer protein. Phytosterol absorption is approximately 2–5%, but their presence in the oil matrix enhances cholesterol-lowering effects synergistically. Cold pressing preserves heat-sensitive tocopherols and phenolics compared to refined oil, maintaining higher antioxidant capacity and oxidative stability despite the high PUFA content. The oil's natural antioxidant complex (tocopherols, carotenoids, phenolics) provides notable oxidative stability for such a PUFA-rich oil, with an induction period superior to flaxseed oil.

## Dosage & Preparation

Clinical studies have used 35g twice daily (70g total) in food form for 12 weeks in older adults, or doses under 30g/day for cholesterol reduction. Standard intervention periods are typically 12 weeks. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

Camelina oil is generally well tolerated at dietary doses up to 30g/day, with no serious adverse events reported in published clinical trials; mild gastrointestinal discomfort such as loose stools has been noted occasionally. Due to its high ALA content and potential antiplatelet effects from downstream EPA conversion, caution is warranted when combined with anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications such as warfarin or clopidogrel, as additive bleeding risk is theoretically possible. Individuals with known allergies to Brassicaceae family plants (mustard, broccoli) should use caution given camelina's taxonomic relationship to this family. Safety data during pregnancy and lactation are insufficient to make firm recommendations, and consultation with a healthcare provider is advised before use in these populations.

## Scientific Research

A 2022 meta-analysis of 7 RCTs (428 participants) found camelina oil significantly reduced total cholesterol. Clinical trials in NAFLD patients (PMID: 34423525) showed improvements in liver enzymes, lipid profiles, and [oxidative stress](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) markers. A pilot RCT in 66 older adults demonstrated significant elevation of serum ALA levels, while another study (PMID: 32512364) found altered plasma lipid mediators in subjects with impaired [glucose metabolism](/ingredients/condition/weight-management).

## Historical & Cultural Context

The research dossier does not contain information about traditional or historical medicinal use of camelina oil. Available literature focuses exclusively on modern clinical research applications.

## Synergistic Combinations

Fish oil, vitamin E, turmeric, milk thistle, alpha-lipoic acid

## Frequently Asked Questions

### How much camelina oil should I take daily to lower cholesterol?

Clinical meta-analysis data indicate that doses under 30g per day (approximately 2 tablespoons) taken for more than 8 weeks are associated with a mean reduction in total cholesterol of 11.64 mg/dL. Most trials used doses in the range of 15–30g daily incorporated into the diet as a cooking or salad oil. Consistency over at least 8 weeks appears necessary to observe meaningful lipid changes.

### What is the omega-3 content of camelina oil compared to flaxseed oil?

Camelina oil contains approximately 35–45% alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) by weight, which is lower than flaxseed oil's 50–60% ALA content but substantially higher than most other culinary oils. Camelina oil also offers a favorable omega-6 to omega-3 ratio of roughly 1:2, and its higher oxidative stability due to vitamin E content makes it more suitable for light cooking compared to flaxseed oil. Both oils rely on the same delta-6-desaturase enzyme pathway for conversion of ALA to EPA and DHA.

### Can camelina oil help with fatty liver disease (NAFLD)?

Yes, at least one randomized controlled trial has specifically examined camelina oil in NAFLD patients and found significant improvements in liver function markers including alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alongside improvements in lipid profiles. The proposed mechanism involves ALA-mediated activation of PPAR-alpha, which promotes hepatic fatty acid oxidation and reduces triglyceride accumulation. However, this evidence comes from a single RCT, so larger multi-center trials are needed before clinical recommendations can be firmly established.

### Does camelina oil raise blood ALA levels effectively in older adults?

A pilot study targeting older adults demonstrated that camelina oil supplementation significantly elevated serum alpha-linolenic acid concentrations, suggesting good bioavailability even in an aging population where fatty acid metabolism can be less efficient. This is relevant because older adults are at higher cardiovascular risk and often have lower dietary omega-3 intake. The delta-6-desaturase conversion efficiency from ALA to EPA tends to decline with age, making direct ALA elevation a meaningful intermediate biomarker of effect.

### Is camelina oil safe to use if I take blood thinners like warfarin?

Camelina oil should be used cautiously alongside anticoagulants like warfarin or antiplatelet drugs such as clopidogrel, because its high ALA content can be partially converted to EPA, which has mild antiplatelet activity that could theoretically potentiate bleeding risk. No specific drug interaction studies with warfarin and camelina oil have been published, but this risk is extrapolated from known omega-3 pharmacology. Patients on anticoagulation therapy should consult their physician before supplementing and monitor INR values if use is initiated.

### Does cold-pressed camelina oil need to be refrigerated after opening, and how long does it stay fresh?

Yes, cold-pressed camelina oil should be refrigerated after opening to preserve its omega-3 fatty acids and prevent oxidation, as the oil is sensitive to heat and light. When stored properly in a cool, dark place or refrigerator, cold-pressed camelina oil typically remains stable for 12–18 months, though checking for rancid odor before use is recommended. Storing it in an opaque, airtight container further extends shelf life by protecting the oil from degradation.

### Who should avoid or be cautious with camelina oil supplementation due to existing health conditions?

Individuals with bleeding disorders or those taking anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications (beyond warfarin, such as aspirin or clopidogrel) should consult a healthcare provider before supplementing, as camelina oil's high ALA content may have mild anticoagulant properties. People with nut or seed allergies should be aware that camelina is a seed oil and may trigger cross-reactivity in sensitive individuals. Those with uncontrolled blood sugar or on diabetes medications should monitor their response, as preliminary evidence suggests camelina may affect glycemia.

### Does the cold-pressed extraction method of camelina oil provide advantages over other extraction methods?

Cold-pressed camelina oil retains more heat-sensitive micronutrients, phytosterols, and antioxidants compared to heat-extracted or solvent-extracted versions, which can degrade these bioactive compounds during processing. The cold-pressing method preserves the oil's natural composition and oxidative stability, making it more suitable for direct supplementation rather than cooking. This extraction method is particularly valuable for maintaining the integrity of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) and other omega-3 precursors that support the health benefits demonstrated in clinical trials.

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