Evening primrose oil is extracted from the seeds of evening primrose (Oenothera biennis), a plant native to North America. It gets its name from its yellow blossoms, which bloom in the evening. The oil contains gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), and other omega-6 fatty acids that have both anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving, or analgesic properties.
Uses of Evening Primrose
PMS symptoms: EPO is highly effective in treating premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms, such as depression, irritability, and bloating. Researchers believe some women experience PMS because they’re sensitive to normal prolactin levels in the body. GLA converts to a substance in the body (prostaglandin E1), thought to help prevent prolactin from triggering PMS.
Breast pain: If you experience breast pain so severe during your period that it interferes with your life, taking EPO may help. The GLA in EPO is thought to reduce inflammation and help inhibit prostaglandins that cause cyclical breast pain.
Acne and eczema: The GLA in EPO is thought to help treat acne by reducing skin inflammation and the number of skin cells that cause lesions. It may also help the skin retain moisture. Some countries have approved EPO to treat eczema, an inflammatory skin condition.
High blood pressure: There’s conflicting evidence about whether EPO lowers blood pressure. EPO helps reduce the risk of high blood pressure during pregnancy or preeclampsia, a condition that causes dangerously high blood pressure during and after pregnancy.
Heart health: According to a 2014 study, EPO is anti-inflammatory and helps reduce blood cholesterol. Most people with heart disease have inflammation in the body, although it hasn’t been proven that inflammation causes heart disease.
Bone and nerve pain: The GLA in EPO has the potential to reduce rheumatoid arthritis pain without causing unwanted side effects. Peripheral neuropathy is a common side effect of diabetes and other conditions. Older research has shown that taking linolenic acid helps reduce neuropathy symptoms, such as hot and cold sensitivity, numbness, tingling, and weakness.
Side Effects and Risks
EPO is generally considered safe for most people to use short term. Keep in mind supplements are not monitored for quality by the government agencies. When choosing EPO, research the supplement as well as the company selling the product.
Dosage: Evening primrose oil has been administered orally in clinical trials at doses between 1 and 8 g/day in adults and 2 and 4 g/day in children. The typical content of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) in the oil is 8% to 10%.
Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The contents of this website are based upon the views of Dr. Walker and his experience. This product is not intended as medical advice nor to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. The information is likewise not to replace the advice of a qualified health care provider. The information provided herein is intended as a sharing of general knowledge only and is not intended to be, nor is it, medical advice or a substitute for medical advice. That being said, please consult your healthcare provider before using supplements or providing supplements to children under the age of 18. If you have or suspect you have, a specific medical condition or disease, please consult your healthcare provider.
© Dr. Dennis D. Walker 2022. All Rights Reserved