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Written by: Jessica Konopinski
Published on: 03/27/2025
There are thousands of omega equine supplements available today, with labels often featuring terms like omega-3, omega-6, EPA, DHA, ALA, and LA. But what do these terms mean, and are all omega fatty acids the same? Both omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are essential for maintaining optimal health in horses. EPA, DHA, ALA, and LA are different forms of omega fatty acids, each sourced from different places.
For example, EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) come from marine sources, while ALA (alpha-linolenic acid) is derived from plants. LA (linoleic acid) is found in seeds and grains. EPA, DHA, and ALA are omega-3 fatty acids, whereas LA is an omega-6 fatty acid. [1]
You might be wondering: Is one better than the other? Ultimately, that’s for you to decide.
As we’ve established, horses require a proper balance of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids for optimal health. These fatty acids also play a crucial role in regulating inflammation levels in the body. While research on this topic is still ongoing, it’s clear that modern horses, particularly those fed grain-heavy diets supplemented with fewer forages, tend to have a higher omega-6 to omega-3 ratio. In contrast, horses on a natural forage-based diet typically have a higher omega-3 to omega-6 ratio. [1]
So, what does this mean for your horse? To put it simply, omega-3 fatty acids are generally considered anti-inflammatory, while omega-6 fatty acids are viewed as pro-inflammatory. Neither fatty acid is inherently better than the other. Instead, they have different effects on the body and must work in harmony to maintain balance.
EPA and DHA can be naturally produced in the body, but ALA and LA cannot, which is why they are referred to as “essential fatty acids.” Most omega supplements will list the omega-3 to omega-6 ratio and concentration. By digging a bit deeper, you can also find out the source of the oils used.
Here’s where things get interesting. There is no single best omega supplement for every horse. The ideal supplement will depend on factors such as your horse’s environment, body composition, and lifestyle. Before starting any new supplement, it’s always best to consult with your veterinarian to ensure it’s the right fit for your horse.
Some of the most commonly used oils in equine supplements include corn oil and soy oil. These oils are often favored because they are affordable. However, cheaper doesn’t always mean better. Corn oil and soy oil have relatively low omega-3 concentrations—around 1% and 7%, respectively—and their omega-3 to omega-6 ratios are 0.02 and 0.14. This indicates that these oils are predominantly higher in omega-6 than omega-3. [1]
Flax oil, on the other hand, has an omega-3 concentration of 54%. While it may be more expensive, its omega-3 to omega-6 ratio of 3.3 makes it a much more balanced supplement.
Finding a well-balanced fatty acid supplement can be challenging, but camelina oil has been gaining attention for its benefits. Camelina oil provides a balanced omega-6 to omega-3 ratio, making it an excellent option for horse owners seeking a more balanced supplement. Additionally, camelina oil has a longer shelf life and is highly palatable to horses.
Flax oil may be pricier than other oils on the market, which leads some owners to choose whole flax seeds. However, this can be counterproductive, as horses cannot break down the tough outer shell of flax seeds. Ground flax is another option, but it can be difficult to find.
Many omega supplements contain hidden ingredients or additives. Smart Earth Camelina Oil, however, is 100% cold-pressed camelina oil with a high omega-3 concentration of approximately 38% in the form of ALA. Since EPA and DHA are derived from marine sources, camelina oil offers a great alternative for horses with shellfish allergies. [2]
When selecting any fatty acid supplement, it’s important to consult with your veterinarian to ensure it suits your horse’s specific needs. If you have questions about how to incorporate camelina oil into your horse’s diet, feel free to contact our team at support@secamelina.com.
✅ Single ingredient, 100% pure Camelina Oil.
✅ Non-GMO
✅ Ideal balance of Omega-3 compared to other products, like soybean oil.
✅ Canadian produced and operated.
✅ Single ingredient, 100% pure Camelina Oil.
✅ Non-GMO
✅ Ideal balance of Omega-3 compared to other products, like soybean oil.
✅ Canadian produced and operated.
Still have questions? Check out our FAQ's.
[1] Kentucky Equine Research - Omega-3
https://ker.com/hoof-coat/eo-3/
[2] Smart Earth Camelina - Our Equine Oil
https://smartearthcamelina.com/pages/our-equine-oil?srsltid=AfmBOorMznjSh6QZyM1IdiInShRFVjyaC4hWSfmqN2jG1KggGaxOG1Mf
Jessica is a brand consultant who brings awareness and intention to equestrian and pet platforms. As a former collegiate equestrian athlete and animal lover, Jessica leads with passion and experience through her writing and brand work for companies who advocate for creating a difference in their space. When she's not riding her horse or walking her dog (with iced coffee in hand), you can find her sharing her love for health and wellness with others and integrating these practices in her everyday work.
