Herbs and botanicals such as evening primrose often have a long history behind them by the time they wind their way into use in contemporary complementary and alternative medicine. You may have heard that evening primrose -- referred to less formally as "EPO" -- is beneficial for female complaints such as premenstrual syndrome and menopause symptoms. However, like any natural remedy, evening primrose oil has the potential to cause serious side effects and interact with medications. If you have epilepsy or schizophrenia, it's important to avoid taking evening primrose.
History & Properties
Evening primrose leaves were used by Native Americans as poultices for bruises and hemorrhoids, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC). If you're a woman, evening primrose's modern-day applications may interest you, as this herb purportedly can reduce breast pain associated with the menstrual cycle, symptoms of menopause and PMS. Evening primrose is also reportedly beneficial for people with eczema, allergic rashes, arthritis and diabetic neuropathy. The oil extracted from the seeds of the flower is used for medicinal purposes and contains an active ingredient called hexane. Primrose oil is also a rich source of omega-6 fatty acids, according to the UMMC.
Dangers
If you have schizophrenia, epilepsy or any type of seizure disorder, primrose can cause seizures, cautions the University of Michigan Health System. The risk of having a seizure increases if you're taking certain medications for these disorders, specifically phenothiazine medications. This class of drugs includes, by trade name: Thorazine, Prolixin, Permitil, Serentil,Trilafon, Compazine, Phenergan, Promethegan, Mellaril and Stelazine.
Allergic Response
A severe allergic reaction is possible whenever you use a natural remedy. The University of Michigan Health System indicates that symptoms include respiratory difficulties (wheezing, difficulty breathing); swollen lips, tongue and face; hives; and your throat swelling shut. Consult a health care provider before taking evening primrose, especially if you have known allergies to plants.
Common Side Effects
The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) notes that side effects from using evening primrose oil are generally very mild. According to the University of Michigan Health System, the most commonly reported side effects include indigestion, nausea, soft stools and headache. Evening primrose oil overdose is typically not life-threatening. You may have taken too much if you experience lose stools and stomach pain. The University of Michigan Health System advises contacting your health care practitioner if you ingested too much evening primrose.
Other Cautions & Concerns
According to NCCAM, evening primrose oil may be mildly beneficial for eczema when applied to the skin. It may also be helpful for premenstrual syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis and breast pain associated with the menstrual cycle. However, NCCAM indicates that evening primrose is unlikely to reduce symptoms associated with menopause. Not enough research shows that it's beneficial for any other health condition either. To make sure that your health concerns are treated in a way that benefits you the most, talk to your health care practitioner before using evening primrose or another complementary or alternative treatment.
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