More About Cod Liver Oil Cod Liver oil was a traditional remedy used in the 18th Century by fisherman who rubbed it on aching joints and used it to treat skin conditions, or, despite its foul taste, ate raw fish livers to ward off colds and flu. Improved production methods in the 20th Century increased quality and made Cod Liver oil and its health benefits available to the masses. By the 1930s the health benefits were recognised by doctors and a daily spoonful of the oil became the norm for whole generations. As with other fish oils, Cod Liver oil has high levels of the omega-3 fatty acids, Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) which improve cardiovascular health and have anti-inflammatory properties. These anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce stress, allergy reactions, asthma, and improve the function of the brain. They also help improve eyesight, skin and the nervous system function. In addition, Cod Liver oil contains vitamin A which helps the body fight off infections whilst improving eyesight and skin, and vitamin D which assists in calcium intake to help maintain bone health. Cod Liver oil has traditionally been given to children to combat rickets and other symptoms of vitamin D deficiency.