Abstract

SHARK LIVER OIL: A REVIEW

P. Gupta*, K. Singhal, A. K. Jangra, V. Nautiyal, A. Pandey

Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences (FAMS), Gurukul Kangri University, Haridwar.

ABSTRACT

Shark liver oil is the fixed oil obtained from the fresh and carefully preserved livers of various species of sharks, mainly Hypoprion brevirostris (lemon shark) and Galeorhinus zyopterus, family-Pleuonectidae, order-Selachii. Shark liver oil is rich in alkylglycerols, which are naturally found in mother's milk and in bone marrow. It also contains pristane, squalene, vitamins A(whose concentration varies from 15000 to 30000 International units per g), vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids[Eciosapentaenoic acid (EPA), Docasahexaenoic acid (DHA)], triglycerides, glycerol ethers, and fatty alcohols. Shark liver oil is promoted as a dietary supplement used to boost the immune system, fight off infections and heal wounds. It has been suggested that their alkylglycerol component fight cancer by killing tumor cells indirectly, squalene has been promoted as having cell-protecting abilities, which may reduce the side effects of chemotherapy, omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin A are used in the treatment of Xeropthalmia (abnormal dryness of the surface of conjuctiva). Many parts of the shark can be valorized: Meat, for human consumption, Skin, in tanning industries. Fins, for soups, Cartilage, for production of Condroitin and Condroitin Sulfate (used as a cosmetic ingredient). Various studies have been conducted which explores Shark liver oil’s anti cancerous, cardiac stimulant, anti psychotic, anti depressive, anti alzheimeric and anti parkinsonic effect. The recent use of Shark liver oil for the development of Swine flu vaccines and in certain cosmetics soaps and lotions adds to their invaluable use.

Keywords: Shark liver oil, squalene, anti cancerous, cardiac stimulant, anti psychotic, Swine flu vaccines.