are by a lipoxygenase action found to be competitive inhibitors of brain and immune cell FAAH, the enzyme that breaks down AEA and other endocannabinoids, and the compound linoleoyl-ethanol-amide (; 18:2,n-6), an N-acylethanolamine, - the ethanolamide of linoleic acid (LA: ; 18:2, n-6) and its metabolized incorporated ethanolamine (MEA: ), is the first natural inhibitor of FAAH, discovered. Uses and reactions Linoleic acid is a component of quick-drying oils, which are useful in oil paints and varnishes. These applications exploit the lability of the doubly allylic groups () toward oxygen in air (autoxidation). Addition of oxygen leads to crosslinking and formation of a stable film. Reduction of the carboxylic acid group of linoleic acid yields linoleyl alcohol. Linoleic acid is a surfactant with a critical micelle concentration of 1.5 x 10−4 M @ pH 7.5. Linoleic acid has become increasingly popular in the beauty products industry because of its beneficial properties on the skin. Research points to linoleic acid's anti-inflammatory, acne reductive, skin-lightening and moisture retentive properties when applied topically on the skin. Linoleic acid is also used in some bar of soap products. Dietary sources It is abundant in safflower, and corn oil, and comprises over half their composition by weight. It is present in medium quantities in soybean oils, sesame, and almonds. Other occurrences Cockroaches release oleic and linoleic acid upon death, which discourages other roaches from entering the area. This is similar to the mechanism found in ants and bees, which release oleic acid upon death. Health effects Consumption of linoleic acid has been associated with lowering the risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes and premature death. There is high-quality evidence that increased intake of linoleic acid decreases total blood cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein. The American Heart Association advises people to replace saturated fat with linoleic acid to reduce CVD risk. See also Conjugated linoleic acid Essential fatty acid interactions Essential nutrients Linolein References Further reading External links Linoleic acid MS Spectrum Fatty Acids: Methylene-Interrupted Double Bonds, AOCS Lipid Library 5α-Reductase inhibitors Alkenoic acids Aromatase inhibitors Essential fatty acids Essential nutrients Fatty acids