What are the health benefits of evening primrose oil. How does it affect the body. What are the potential side effects and precautions to consider. What is the recommended dosage for various conditions.

Understanding Evening Primrose Oil: Origin and Composition

Evening primrose oil, derived from the seeds of the Oenothera biennis plant, has garnered significant attention in the world of natural health remedies. This plant, native to the Americas, is known for its distinctive yellow flowers that bloom at sunset. The oil extracted from its seeds is rich in omega-6 fatty acids, particularly gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), which is renowned for its anti-inflammatory properties.

But what makes evening primrose oil so special? Its high concentration of GLA sets it apart from other plant-based oils. GLA is an essential fatty acid that our bodies cannot produce on their own, making dietary sources crucial for optimal health. This unique composition has led to its widespread use in various health and wellness applications.

Potential Health Benefits of Evening Primrose Oil

While research on evening primrose oil is ongoing, several potential health benefits have been identified:

• Management of diabetic neuropathy
• Support for bone health
• Alleviation of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms
• Relief from menopause-related discomfort
• Improvement in skin conditions like acne
• Potential aid in managing arthritis symptoms

Is evening primrose oil effective for nerve damage caused by diabetes? Research suggests that daily consumption of evening primrose oil for 6-12 months may indeed improve symptoms of diabetic neuropathy. This finding offers hope for individuals struggling with this challenging complication of diabetes.

Can evening primrose oil help with osteoporosis? When combined with fish oil and calcium, evening primrose oil has shown promise in decreasing bone loss and increasing bone density in elderly individuals with osteoporosis. This combination approach could potentially offer a natural supplement to conventional osteoporosis treatments.

Effectiveness and Limitations: What the Research Says

While evening primrose oil shows promise for certain conditions, it’s important to note that scientific evidence is mixed for many of its purported benefits. For instance:

Does evening primrose oil help with asthma? Despite some anecdotal reports, scientific studies have not found evidence to support the use of evening primrose oil for improving asthma symptoms.

Is it effective for breast pain (mastalgia)? Contrary to popular belief, research indicates that taking evening primrose oil orally does not significantly reduce breast pain.

These findings underscore the importance of approaching evening primrose oil use with a balanced perspective, recognizing both its potential benefits and limitations.

Side Effects and Safety Considerations

While evening primrose oil is generally considered safe for most people, it’s crucial to be aware of potential side effects and safety considerations:

• Mild gastrointestinal discomfort
• Headaches
• Nausea
• Soft stools or diarrhea

Are there any serious side effects associated with evening primrose oil? When taken in recommended doses (up to 6 grams daily for up to one year), serious side effects are rare. However, individuals with certain health conditions should exercise caution.

Who should avoid using evening primrose oil? People with bleeding disorders, epilepsy, or those scheduled for surgery should consult their healthcare provider before using evening primrose oil. It may increase the risk of bleeding or seizures in these populations.

Precautions and Special Populations

Certain groups should take extra precautions when considering evening primrose oil supplementation:

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Is evening primrose oil safe during pregnancy? While some studies suggest it may be safe in doses up to 4 grams daily for up to 10 weeks, caution is advised. There are concerns that it might delay labor if taken near the end of pregnancy.

Can breastfeeding mothers use evening primrose oil? While it’s possibly safe, it’s best to consult with a healthcare provider before use during breastfeeding.

Children

Is evening primrose oil safe for children? Limited research suggests it may be safe when taken orally in doses up to 6 grams daily or when applied topically. However, parents should consult a pediatrician before giving evening primrose oil to children.

Interactions with Medications and Other Supplements

Evening primrose oil can interact with various medications and supplements, potentially altering their effectiveness or increasing side effects:

Major Interactions

Does evening primrose oil interact with blood-thinning medications? Yes, it may increase the risk of bleeding when taken with anticoagulants or antiplatelet drugs. Patients on these medications should avoid evening primrose oil or use it only under close medical supervision.

Moderate Interactions

• Phenothiazines: May increase seizure risk
• Lopinavir/Ritonavir: Might alter drug metabolism
• Lithium: Could potentially decrease lithium levels

Minor Interactions

Evening primrose oil may affect how the liver processes certain medications. This could potentially alter the effects and side effects of these drugs.

Dosage Guidelines and Administration

Proper dosing is crucial for maximizing benefits while minimizing risks:

What is the recommended dosage for evening primrose oil? Most studies have used doses ranging from 2-6 grams daily, taken orally for 3-12 months. However, optimal dosage can vary depending on the specific condition being treated.

How should evening primrose oil be taken? It’s typically consumed in capsule form with meals to enhance absorption and reduce the likelihood of gastrointestinal side effects.

Is there a best time of day to take evening primrose oil? While there’s no definitive best time, some people prefer taking it in the evening to potentially enhance its effects on sleep and relaxation.

Quality Considerations and Choosing the Right Product

Not all evening primrose oil supplements are created equal. To ensure you’re getting a high-quality product:

• Look for cold-pressed oils, which retain more beneficial compounds
• Check for third-party testing certifications
• Choose products that specify the GLA content
• Opt for reputable brands with good manufacturing practices

How can you determine the quality of an evening primrose oil supplement? Look for products that provide a certificate of analysis, which details the exact composition of the oil, including its GLA content and purity.

Is there a difference between liquid and capsule forms of evening primrose oil? While both forms can be effective, capsules are often preferred for their convenience and precise dosing. Liquid forms may be beneficial for those who have difficulty swallowing pills or prefer to add the oil to foods or beverages.

Alternative Sources of GLA and Omega-6 Fatty Acids

While evening primrose oil is a popular source of GLA, it’s not the only option. Other sources include:

• Borage oil
• Black currant seed oil
• Hemp seed oil
• Spirulina

How do these alternatives compare to evening primrose oil? Borage oil, for instance, contains a higher concentration of GLA (about 20-26% compared to 8-10% in evening primrose oil). However, evening primrose oil is often better tolerated and has been more extensively studied.

Can you combine different sources of GLA? While it’s possible to use multiple sources of GLA, it’s important to monitor your total intake and consult with a healthcare provider to ensure you’re not exceeding recommended levels.

Future Research and Potential Applications

The field of evening primrose oil research is dynamic and evolving. Current areas of interest include:

• Its potential role in managing autoimmune conditions
• Effects on cognitive function and mental health
• Possible applications in cancer supportive care
• Its impact on cardiovascular health

What are the most promising areas of evening primrose oil research? Studies on its effects on inflammatory skin conditions like eczema and its potential neuroprotective properties in conditions like multiple sclerosis are particularly intriguing.

How might future research change our understanding of evening primrose oil? As more rigorous clinical trials are conducted, we may gain clearer insights into its efficacy for various conditions, optimal dosing strategies, and potential long-term effects.

Incorporating Evening Primrose Oil into a Holistic Health Approach

While evening primrose oil shows promise for various health concerns, it’s important to view it as part of a broader approach to wellness:

• Combine with a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Incorporate regular physical activity
• Manage stress through techniques like meditation or yoga
• Ensure adequate sleep and hydration

How can evening primrose oil complement other natural health practices? It may enhance the benefits of a healthy lifestyle by providing additional anti-inflammatory support and promoting hormonal balance.

Is it necessary to take evening primrose oil indefinitely? The duration of use can vary depending on individual health goals and responses. Some may benefit from long-term use, while others might use it cyclically or for specific periods.

Navigating Conflicting Information and Making Informed Decisions

With the abundance of information available on evening primrose oil, it can be challenging to separate fact from fiction:

• Consult reputable scientific sources and peer-reviewed studies
• Be wary of exaggerated claims or promises of miracle cures
• Discuss your interest in evening primrose oil with a healthcare provider
• Consider your individual health status and goals when evaluating its potential benefits

How can you critically evaluate claims about evening primrose oil? Look for evidence-based information from medical journals and reputable health organizations. Be skeptical of anecdotal evidence or testimonials that seem too good to be true.

What questions should you ask your healthcare provider about evening primrose oil? Discuss potential interactions with your current medications, appropriate dosage for your specific health concerns, and any contraindications based on your medical history.

The Role of Evening Primrose Oil in Personalized Medicine

As our understanding of individual genetic variations and their impact on health grows, the concept of personalized medicine is gaining traction. Evening primrose oil’s effects may vary based on an individual’s genetic makeup:

• Some people may metabolize GLA more efficiently than others
• Genetic variations can influence the body’s response to omega-6 fatty acids
• Individual health conditions and lifestyle factors can impact the effectiveness of evening primrose oil

How might genetic testing influence the use of evening primrose oil? In the future, genetic testing could help determine who is most likely to benefit from evening primrose oil supplementation, allowing for more targeted and effective use.

Can evening primrose oil be part of a personalized nutrition plan? Absolutely. As we learn more about nutrigenomics – the study of how nutrition interacts with our genes – supplements like evening primrose oil may be recommended based on an individual’s genetic profile and specific health needs.

Environmental and Ethical Considerations in Evening Primrose Oil Production

As with any natural product, the production of evening primrose oil has environmental and ethical implications:

• Sustainable farming practices
• Ethical sourcing of seeds
• Impact on local ecosystems
• Carbon footprint of production and distribution

How can consumers ensure they’re choosing environmentally friendly evening primrose oil products? Look for brands that prioritize sustainable farming practices, use organic seeds, and have transparent supply chains. Some companies also offer carbon-neutral shipping options.

Are there any social or economic impacts of evening primrose oil production? The cultivation of evening primrose can provide economic opportunities for farmers, particularly in regions where the plant grows naturally. However, as with any crop, it’s important to consider the long-term effects on local agriculture and biodiversity.

The Global Perspective: Evening Primrose Oil Use Around the World

The use and regulation of evening primrose oil vary significantly across different countries and cultures:

• In some European countries, it’s registered as a traditional herbal medicine
• In the United States, it’s regulated as a dietary supplement
• Some Asian countries have incorporated it into traditional medicine practices
• Regulatory standards and quality control measures differ globally

How do cultural perspectives influence the use of evening primrose oil? In some cultures, it’s viewed primarily as a women’s health supplement, while in others, it’s seen as a general wellness product. These cultural attitudes can shape how and why people choose to use evening primrose oil.

Are there any global trends in evening primrose oil research and use? There’s growing interest in its potential applications for metabolic disorders and inflammatory conditions, with research being conducted in various countries. Additionally, as global awareness of natural health products increases, the market for evening primrose oil continues to expand internationally.

Overview, Uses, Side Effects, Precautions, Interactions, Dosing and Reviews

Overview

Evening primrose (Oenothera biennis) is a plant native to the Americas. Its yellow flowers open at sunset. The oil in its seeds contains omega-6 fatty acids.

Evening primrose oil contains gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). GLA is an omega-6 essential fatty acid that has anti-inflammatory effects in the body.

People use evening primrose oil for premenstrual syndrome (PMS), menopause symptoms, arthritis, high cholesterol, acne, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.

Don’t confuse evening primrose oil with other plants or oils that are sources of GLA and omega-6 fatty acids, such as black currant, borage, and flaxseed oil.

Uses & Effectiveness ?

Possibly Effective for

• Nerve damage caused by diabetes. Research shows that taking evening primrose oil daily for 6-12 months improves symptoms of nerve damage caused by diabetes.
• Osteoporosis. Taking evening primrose oil with fish oil and calcium seems to decrease bone loss and increase bone density in elderly people with osteoporosis.

Possibly Ineffective for

• Asthma. Taking evening primrose oil by mouth doesn’t seem to improve asthma symptoms.

Likely InEffective for

• Breast pain (mastalgia). Taking evening primrose oil by mouth doesn’t seem to reduce breast pain.

There is interest in using evening primrose for a number of other purposes, but there isn’t enough reliable information to say whether it might be helpful.

Side Effects

When taken by mouth: Evening primrose oil is likely safe for most people when taken in doses up to 6 grams daily for up to 1 year. It might cause mild side effects including upset stomach, nausea, diarrhea, and headache in some people. There isn’t enough reliable information to know if other parts of the evening primrose plant are safe or what the side effects might be.

When applied to the skin: There isn’t enough reliable information to know if evening primrose is safe or what the side effects might be.

Special Precautions and Warnings

When taken by mouth: Evening primrose oil is likely safe for most people when taken in doses up to 6 grams daily for up to 1 year. It might cause mild side effects including upset stomach, nausea, diarrhea, and headache in some people. There isn’t enough reliable information to know if other parts of the evening primrose plant are safe or what the side effects might be.

When applied to the skin: There isn’t enough reliable information to know if evening primrose is safe or what the side effects might be. Pregnancy: Taking evening primrose oil by mouth is possibly safe during pregnancy. Taking up to 4 grams by mouth daily for up to 10 weeks seems to be safe. But until this is confirmed, be cautious. Taking evening primrose oil during the last weeks of pregnancy might delay labor. Don’t use this product close to the end of pregnancy.

Breast-feeding: It is possibly safe to take evening primrose oil while breast-feeding, but it’s best to check with your healthcare provider first.

Children: Evening primrose oil is possibly safe when taken by mouth in doses up to 6 grams daily. It is also possibly safe when applied to the skin.

Bleeding disorders: Evening primrose oil might increase the chance of bruising and bleeding. Don’t use it if you have a bleeding disorder.

Epilepsy or another seizure disorder: Evening primrose oil might make seizures more likely in some people.

Surgery: Evening primrose oil might increase the chance of bleeding during or after surgery. Stop using it at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.

Interactions ?

Major Interaction

Do not take this combination

• Evening primrose oil might slow blood clotting. Taking evening primrose oil along with medications that also slow blood clotting might increase the risk of bruising and bleeding.

Moderate Interaction

Be cautious with this combination

• Taking evening primrose oil with phenothiazines might increase the risk of a seizure in some people.

• Evening primrose oil might decrease how quickly the body breaks down lopinavir / ritonavir. Taking evening primrose oil along with lopinavir / ritonavir might increase the effects and side effects of lopinavir / ritonavir.

• Evening primrose oil might decrease the levels of lithium in the body. Taking evening primrose oil along with lithium might decrease the effects of lithium.

Minor Interaction

Be watchful with this combination

• Some medications are changed and broken down by the liver. Evening primrose oil might change how quickly the liver breaks down these medications. This could change the effects and side effects of these medications.

Dosing

Evening primrose oil has most often been used by adults in doses of 2-6 grams by mouth daily for 3-12 months. Speak with a healthcare provider to find out what dose might be best for a specific condition.

View References

CONDITIONS OF USE AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This information is meant to supplement, not replace advice from your doctor or healthcare provider and is not meant to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions or adverse effects. This information may not fit your specific health circumstances. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your doctor or other qualified health care provider because of something you have read on WebMD. You should always speak with your doctor or health care professional before you start, stop, or change any prescribed part of your health care plan or treatment and to determine what course of therapy is right for you.

This copyrighted material is provided by Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Consumer Version. Information from this source is evidence-based and objective, and without commercial influence. For professional medical information on natural medicines, see Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Professional Version.
© Therapeutic Research Faculty 2020.

Evening Primrose Oil: Uses and Risks

Written by Matt McMillen

• Why do people use evening primrose oil?
• Can you get evening primrose oil naturally from foods?
• What are the risks of taking evening primrose oil?

Evening primrose is a plant that’s native to Europe and North America. It has a long history of medicinal uses. Native Americans, for example, used its leaves, roots, and seedpods in preparations for hemorrhoids, bruises, wounds, and skin problems.

Evening primrose oil contains an omega-6 essential fatty acid that is necessary for good health. However, while there is some evidence that taking evening primrose oil supplements may benefit some health conditions, the study results are mixed.

Most of the studies have been small and further research is needed.

Evening primrose oil supplements usually come in capsule form. People take it to try to treat conditions such as:

• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
• Eczema, atopic dermatitis, and other skin conditions
• Breast pain during menstruation
• ADD
• Asthma

Reviews of the available scientific evidence have found no reason to recommend evening primrose oil to help the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome or breast pain.

Current research does not show primrose oil to be helpful in eczema or atopic dermatitis. And some studies suggest that supplements that contain gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), including evening primrose oil, may be of some benefit to people with rheumatoid arthritis. But more research is needed before it could be recommended.

Evening primrose oil has also been used as a complementary treatment for some cancers. Again, evidence to support such use is lacking.

GLA, thought to be the active ingredient in evening primrose oil, can be found in small amounts in a variety of food sources. However, it is most concentrated in plant oils such as evening primrose oil and borage oil. The doses used in most clinical trials would be hard to get from food sources.

Most people will tolerate evening primrose oil without complications. But keep in mind that there have been reports of side effects such as:

• Headache
• Stomach upset
• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Rash

Evening primrose oil may raise the risk of bleeding among people who take anticoagulant and antiplatelet medications. It may also raise the risk of seizures as well as serious nausea and vomiting for people taking a class of drugs known as phenothiazines. These drugs are used to treat schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders.

People should be especially cautious about taking evening primrose oil if they have:

• Bleeding disorders
• Seizure disorders such as epilepsy 
• Mania

Also, people who take medication to lower blood pressure should be careful, because evening primrose oil may cause a further drop in pressure. Evening primrose oil may also interact with certain medicines used to treat depression.

Several other drug interactions have been noted. Evening primrose oil may cause seizures if used with anesthesia. Make sure you tell your doctor if you are taking this before you have any surgery.

Pregnant women should not take evening primrose oil because of the potential for complications.

Before taking evening primrose oil, or any other supplement, talk to your doctor about potential risks and drug interactions. Even so-called natural supplements should be used with caution.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does regulate dietary supplements; however,  it does so under a different set of regulations than it does for “conventional” foods or drugs. Unlike drug manufacturers, the makers of supplements don’t have to show their products are safe or effective before selling them on the market.

Top Picks

10 benefits of evening primrose oil and how to use it.

Indications and contraindications of evening primrose oil

Evening primrose oil, more commonly known as EPO, is obtained by processing the flowers and seeds of the plant of the same name, which grows in North America. For several hundred years, the products of this plant have been used in folk medicine to treat bruises, sore throats, digestive problems, and hemorrhoids.

Scientists report that the benefits of this product are due to the high content of GLA – gamma-linolenic acid, also known as Omega-6.

EPO is mostly used for topical application to problem areas or as a dietary supplement. Next, we look at how evening primrose oil can be used to treat a variety of ailments or improve health conditions.

Eliminates skin rashes burning and eliminate keratinized skin that causes problems. Moreover, this product is able to retain moisture when applied.

According to a study conducted in 2014, evening primrose oil is able to relieve the symptoms of cheilitis, which are manifested in the form of inflammation and pain in the lips. The most common cause of this condition is the use of a special medication for the treatment of acne – isotretinoin.

One of the experiments also showed that gamma-linolenic acid is able to reduce the number of not only inflamed, but also non-inflammatory rashes. To achieve all the above effects, scientists used EPO as a dietary supplement in the amount of 450 milligrams.

May be used to treat eczema

In some countries, including the United States, evening primrose oil has been approved as a drug for the treatment of eczema and various inflammatory skin conditions. A similar decision was made thanks to one of the studies, in which it was found that GLA helps to improve the quality of the skin. Despite this, researchers report that taking EPO as a dietary supplement has a relatively low efficacy in treating eczema, in contrast to topical use.

Scientists recognize both methods of treatment. To eliminate the symptoms of this disease, they recommend taking from 1 to 4 capsules of oil per day or applying its 20% solution to the skin twice a day. In both cases, the duration of treatment is 4 months.

Improves skin quality like:

Scientists attribute this effect to the high content of gamma-linolenic acid in the product, which is necessary to normalize the functions of the dermis and ensure its ideal structure. Based on the fact that the human body is not able to generate GLA on its own, the researchers believe that the topical application of EPO can preserve the health of the dermis. To ensure the desired effect, they recommend taking primrose oil capsules in a volume of 500 milligrams three times a day for 12 weeks.

Improves symptoms of PMS to eliminate some symptoms of premenstrual syndrome, namely:

depression; increased irritability; discomfort in the abdomen.

According to scientists, the above symptoms appear in some women due to high sensitivity to prolactin. When ingested, GLA is converted to prostaglandin E1, which reduces the effect of the first element on the body, which ensures the elimination of PMS symptoms.

According to 2010 data, a supplement that combines EPO with vitamins B6 and E is more effective at reducing the body’s exposure to prolactin. However, its use did not allow us to find out how much evening primrose oil can have such an effect. What’s more, in some studies, EPO failed to eliminate PMS symptoms.

Despite this, to eliminate discomfort and increased irritability during premenstrual syndrome, doctors advise taking evening primrose oil in the amount of 500 to 6000 milligrams per day for 10 months.

Relieves breast pain

During the menstrual cycle, many women experience pain in the breast area. EPO nutritional supplements can help in solving this problem.

According to a 2010 study, gamma-linolenic acid is able to reduce inflammation and inhibit prostaglandins, the main cause of pain. So, one of the experiments showed that the use of evening primrose oil in combination with vitamin E for six months significantly reduced the severity of pain. At the same time, with each cycle, the sensations were weaker and weaker.

To solve this problem, experts recommend taking 1 to 3 grams of EPO every day for six months, combined with 1200 mg of vitamin E.

and the intensity of the tides during menopause

One of the most annoying side effects of menopause is hot flashes. An analysis of the results of studies conducted in 2010 showed that evening primrose oil and other over-the-counter products cannot be used to solve this problem. However, later experiments showed that women who took 500 milligrams of this supplement daily for 6 weeks were able to reduce the frequency and severity of hot flashes. At the same time, the intake of appropriate nutritional supplements allowed to increase the level of sexual activity and self-esteem.

The effects described above can be achieved by eating 500 milligrams of EPO daily.

Normalizes blood pressure levels

At the moment, there is a huge amount of conflicting information about whether evening primrose oil can normalize blood pressure levels. Therefore, further studies are needed to confirm this fact.

According to research data from 2013, scientists found that people who took EPO had lower levels of systolic blood pressure compared to other people.

An analysis of the experiments in 2011, however, showed that the amount of data confirming the ability of evening primrose oil to affect blood pressure levels in pregnant women or those suffering from preeclampsia is not enough to draw specific conclusions.

However, 500 milligrams of EPO twice a day should be taken to lower blood pressure. However, this supplement should be included in the diet only after consultation with your doctor.

Improves heart muscle function

About 600,000 people die each year due to heart disease, and that’s just in the United States. At the same time, the number of people suffering from heart failure is estimated in the millions. Some of them turn to folk remedies such as EPO to solve this problem.

According to 2014 data, the benefits of evening primrose oil are to reduce inflammation and lower blood cholesterol levels. As practice shows, every person who has heart muscle disease has an increased number of inflammatory markers. Despite this, scientists rarely associate inflammation with heart failure.

To avoid heart failure, take 10 to 30 milliliters of oil daily for 4 months. At the same time, experts strongly recommend that you be under the supervision of your doctor.

Eliminates the symptoms of neuropathy

limbs and increased weakness. It can be caused by diabetes and a number of other diseases.

Recent studies have shown that EPO supplementation can improve the symptoms of neuropathy. This effect is provided by the daily consumption of evening primrose oil capsules, which contain from 360 to 480 milligrams of GLA.

Reduces bone pain

Rheumatoid arthritis is a disease in which one of the symptoms is chronic inflammation that causes pain in the bones. According to 2011 data, gamma-linolenic acid, which is found in EPO, can reduce pain. To do this, daily should be taken from 500 to 6000 milligrams of oil for 3-12 months.

Potential Risks and Side Effects

For most people, EPO dietary supplements are not dangerous, even if used over a long period of time. Despite this, they should be purchased with extreme caution, as the Food and Drug Administration does not test the composition of supplements.

The number of side effects from misuse of evening primrose oil is negligible. These include: disruption of the gastrointestinal tract; headaches; pain in the abdomen; diarrhea.

You can get rid of these effects by reducing the amount of consumption. But in some cases, the product can also cause an allergic reaction, which will be accompanied by the following symptoms: skin rashes; difficulty breathing; swelling of hands and feet.

If this supplement is taken in combination with blood thinning medications, the properties of evening primrose oil may increase the effect of the medications and lead to internal bleeding.

One of the most common uses of EPO is to increase the elasticity of the cervix in preparation for childbirth. But, according to doctors, the use of oil orally slows down dilation and leads to an increase in the duration of labor.

Conclusion

There is a lot of evidence supporting the benefits of evening primrose oil. However, the number of facts refuting them is also quite large. Therefore, further studies are needed to confirm the beneficial properties of this product.

Despite this, some physicians recommend the use of dosages for health promotion and the treatment of certain diseases that correspond to those used in the experiments. At the same time, experts advise taking the appropriate supplements only under the supervision of a doctor and only after consultation.

Sources

• Abo-Gresha NM, et al. (2014). Evening primrose oil ameliorates platelet aggregation and improves cardiac recovery in myocardial-infarct hypercholesterolemic rats.
  ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3961099/
• Bamford JTM, et al. (2013). Oral evening primrose oil and borage oil for eczema. DOI:
  10.1002/14651858.CD004416. pub2
• Cameron M, et al. (2011). Herbal therapy for treating rheumatoid arthritis. DOI:
  10.1002/14651858.CD002948.pub2

Evening primrose oil: effects and tips for use

May 28
2021

Today, evening primrose oil is used quite often both in the home treatment of epidermal problems and in professional medical centers under the guidance of cosmetologists and other specialists. Manufacturers such as Solgar, American Health, Royal Brittany are considered leaders in the market. All these options differ from each other not only in price, but also in the components that are included in the composition, method of exposure and effectiveness. That is why, before choosing a product, you should always first familiarize yourself with the product in detail in order to protect yourself from potential troubles in the form of an allergic reaction.

This article is for guidance only. Before starting to use evening primrose oil, it is recommended that you first consult with a specialist to make sure there are no contraindications and correctly calculate the dosage.

Evening primrose oil: Benefits

Christel van Gol, in one of his papers on evening primrose oil, writes that it is the world’s only source of the very rare gamma-linolenic acid. Because of this, the plant is very much appreciated all over the world: in addition to alpha acids, it allows a person to quickly restore his body after a cold, infection, and even a rash. Many experts recommend the use of oil in preventive measures, since it has a good anti-inflammatory effect and, in principle, can regulate the functioning of human organs at the cellular level. More details about this information can be found at the link.

Evening primrose oil is not just so popular, its benefits are really great. For example, GLA can monitor water-salt metabolism, which means it improves metabolism, as well as the quality of blood flow. In his work, Gol notes that for the most part evening primrose oil is used to combat skin imperfections, since it is thanks to its anti-inflammatory effect that it quickly copes with all acne and at the same time does not leave scars, which is very important for maintaining aesthetics.

Primrose oil for acne

In one of her latest fundamental works, Maryam Kashanian writes that primrose oil for acne shows simply incredible results. It is really suitable for the treatment of hormonal problems and acne of 1-3 degrees. Many endocrinologists now recommend this remedy for use. The high GLM content quickly brings the face back to normal without acne and oily sheen. It is important to note that the product is suitable for any type of skin.

The benefits of evening primrose oil for the face are as follows:

• antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effect;
• suppression of seboproducts;
• improved keratinization;
• lipid barrier formation;
• long-term result.

To achieve a visible effect for a long time, it is necessary to undergo a course of treatment, but it must be discussed with your doctor without fail, otherwise the consequences may be irreversible.

In theory, the oil can be used as a spot treatment, simply by applying it to the affected areas, by no means using it all over the face. But in her work, Magdalena Timoszuk notes that the best effect can only be obtained with the internal use of evening primrose oil. Capsules with different contents of this remedy are now being sold in the public domain. The best option is to take one capsule per day, but this point is still better to check with your doctor.

Evening primrose oil: contraindications

Before you buy evening primrose oil, contraindications should be studied in some detail. Experts note that they practically do not exist, but this does not mean that you do not need to consult a doctor and take tests.

A person may have an individual intolerance to any of the components that make up this oil. It is also forbidden to use the product externally or internally during pregnancy or lactation, as this may adversely affect the condition of the child.

Evening primrose oil: side effects

Brian Bels, studying evening primrose oil, practically does not describe side effects in his works.