Evening primrose oil has a long history of use. A wildflower originally from the North America, evening primrose was taken to Europe by settlers from England and Germany. Evening primrose, which can be eaten and used as a medicine, is a good source of the health-promoting omega-6 fatty acids called gamma-linolenic acid, GLA, and linolenic acid, LA. Evening primrose oil is commonly referred to as EPO. Consult your doctor before using this herbal remedy.
Safety
Evening primrose oil is generally considered safe for most people when used in the recommended dosages. Mild and rare side effects can include nausea, stomach pain and headache. Diarrhea may occur if evening primrose is taken in higher dosages than recommended. People with bleeding problems or blood disorders should not take evening primrose, and they should stop taking it at least two weeks before surgery. Omega-6 fatty acid supplements should not be taken by people with seizure disorders. Evening primrose may possibly be unsafe during pregnancy, but it is considered safe for breastfeeding women, as breast milk naturally contains GLA and LA.
Possible Interactions
Evening primrose may interact with certain medications. Using anticoagulants while taking evening primrose may amplify the effects of the drug and slow the clotting of the blood. Evening primrose may also interact with the anesthesia used during surgery. Phenothiazines -- medications used to treat schizophrenia -- combined with evening primrose may increase the risk of seizures in some people. The University of Maryland Medical Center also recommends avoiding the use of evening primrose while taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
Uses
Evening primrose oil may possibly be effective for mastalgia -- breast pain -- and osteoporosis when used in combination with calcium and fish oils. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine notes that evening primrose oil has been used since the 1930s as a treatment for eczema; however, the results of scientific research studies have not confirmed evening primrose's efficacy for this condition. Evidence suggests evening primrose may be effective for treating premenstrual syndrome symptoms and skin allergies, such as rashes. Evening primrose may be possibly ineffective for treating hot flashes and night sweats related to menopause and attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder. There is insufficient evidence to determine the efficacy of evening primrose treatments for chronic fatigue syndrome; rheumatoid arthritis; pregnancy complications, such as pre-eclampsia, shortening of labor or prevention of late delivery; cancer; acne; heart disease; multiple sclerosis; and Alzheimer's disease.
Dosage Recommendations
Children may take evening primrose capsules of two to four grams containing eight percent GLA if approved by your healthcare provider. Adults may take capsules of two to eight grams containing eight percent GLA daily, though higher doses may be needed for more severe conditions. Talk to your health care provider for guidance on dosages. consult your health care provider before being use of any herbal supplement.
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