Primrose supplements are made from oils of the evening primrose plant. These oils are rich in the fatty acid GLA that is linked to a number of health benefits. Primrose has been used for centuries to treat skin conditions and cardiovascular problems. Primrose may also help to stimulate hair growth. Talk to a health professional to learn more about how primrose and GLAs may help hair loss.
Primrose Plant
The evening primrose plant is indigenous the United States and has been used medicinally for hundreds of years. Primrose may provide relief from stomach ailments and respiratory infections. Primrose can also help skin problems such as eczema and various cardiovascular conditions. More recent studies suggest that primrose can also be beneficial for hair health and may stimulate the growth of hair.
GLA
Primrose extracts are rich in gamma-linolenic acid, or GLA, an omega-6 oil somewhat similar to the omega-3 fatty acids DHA and EPA found in fish oil. The University of Maryland Medical Center explains that the health promoting effects of primrose are linked to its high GLA content, as GLA can have benefits for hair, skin and heart health. GLAs are also found in black currant seeds and borage oils.
Hair Growth
While GLA found in primrose may benefit the general health of your hair and skin, it is still controversial if GLA and primrose can stimulate hair growth. Furthermore, there is little medical evidence that GLA can reverse pattern balding. In her book "The Menopause Thyroid Solution," Mary J. Shomon explains that primrose may help to slow hair thinning and hair loss in menopausal women or women with thyroid conditions.
Recommendations
Primrose oil and GLA can have benefits for your hair and skin health, but they will not likely be a cure-all for hair loss. While GLA is generally safe in low amounts, it can cause inflammatory problems at higher doses and should be avoided if you are taking certain medications. Talk to your doctor to learn more about how primrose and GLA may help you potential conditions.
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