Seal Oil Uses

Seal oil, derived from blubber of adult seals and seal pups, is an increasingly popular nutritional supplement. According to a 2004 conference by the Canadian government, seal oil is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids that may help prevent or treat several common conditions. Evidence of its efficacy, though, is limited and controversial. Harpseals.org notes that no evidence exists of seal oil's superiority compared to other omega-3 sources. Additionally, it may contain dangerous contaminants and threatens the safety of the harp seal species.

Cardiovascular Health

• According to the U.S. National Institutes of Health, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), two omega-3 fatty acids found in both seal oil and fish oil, offer several benefits for cardiovascular health. These fatty acids effectively reduce levels of triglycerides, or fat in the blood, and are "likely effective" for preventing heart disease, hypertension, heart attack and stroke. Although compelling scientific evidence supports these uses, the Canadian government does not acknowledge any research suggesting that seal oil is nutritionally or medicinally superior to oils derived from fatty fish.

Pain and Inflammation

• The National Institutes of Health suggests that omega-3 fatty acids can help fight pain and inflammation associated with medical conditions including rheumatoid arthritis, dysmenorrhea, psoriasis and asthma. No evidence supports the notion that seal oil would work better than fish oil for achieving these medicinal goals, however.

Mental and Neurological Health

• Seal oil and other sources of omega-3 fatty acids can help promote the health of the brain and central nervous system, in theory. The NIH regards omega-3 fats as theoretical, alternative treatments for conditions such as bipolar disorder, psychosis, depression, dyspraxia, ADD, dyslexia and Alzheimer's disease. Omega-3 fats lack compelling scientific evidence as treatments for these conditions, and no studies have investigated seal oil's specific benefits for people with these condition. Always abide by your health care provider's treatment recommendations if you have a medical condition.