Evening primrose oil is not typically used to treat liver problems. Though studied for possible benefits in treating or preventing cancer, including that of the liver, scientific evidence for this purpose remains equivocal. Unlike other sources of omega-6 fatty acids, it is not associated with causing or worsening liver problems, either. This supplement can cause side effects and interact with medications, so consult a health care provider before using it, especially if you have a health condition, such as a liver ailment.
Identification
Evening primrose oil is among the supplements rich in gamma linolenic acid, or GLA. Other rich sources of this essential omega-6 fatty acid are borage seed oil and black currant oil. Unlike borage oil, evening primrose oil is not associated with causing harm to your liver. Borage oil contains a pyrrolizidine alkaloid called amabiline that may damage your liver.
Uses
GLA supplements such as evening primrose oil are promoted for numerous health purposes, but treating liver problems typically is not among these. It's commonly recommended for easing breast tenderness due to premenstrual syndrome, according to University of Maryland Medical Center. It also may aid in osteoporosis when combined with calcium and fish oil, notes MedlinePlus. Though evening primrose is reputed to help relieve itchiness associated with skin conditions like eczema, symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and other premenstrual syndrome symptoms it is likely ineffective for such purposes, according to MedlinePlus. There's not enough scientific evidence to rate it for other commonly advocated purposes including diabetes, neurological problems related to diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, obesity, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis and to slow or stop cancer cell growth.
Liver Cancer
Evening primrose oil has been studied as an aid for liver cancer, but it does not appear to provide a benefit, according to a July 1990 "Prostaglandins, Leukotrienes and Essential Fatty Acids" study. However, the large size of the tumors studied and the low dose of the oil in this study may explain this lack, and more research is recommended. According to the American Cancer Society, some laboratory research suggests GLA may be helpful against certain cancers, such as breast cancer, but notes that as of 2010 research is still in the early stages. GLA appears to contribute to prostaglandin regulation and synthesis in your body. These hormone-like substances are chemical messengers in cells that may play a role in combating cancer. The exact role of prostaglandins in cancer fighting remains unclear, notes the American Cancer Society.
Contraindications
Having a liver problem is not among the safety concerns listed on MedlinePlus for taking evening primrose oil. These include bleeding disorders, seizure disorders, schizophrenia, having an upcoming surgery and being pregnant. However, always consult a doctor before trying a new supplement if you have a liver ailment. If you decide to try evening primrose oil seek a balance between the omega-6 fatty acids it provides and omega-3 fatty acids such as those in fish oil. The proper balance between these types of essential fatty acids is what promotes health, according to University of Maryland Medical Center.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Evening Primrose Oil; October 2008
- American Cancer Society; Gamma Linolenic Acid; May 2010
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center; Borage; February 2011
- MedlinePlus; Evening Primrose Oil; July 2011
- "Prostaglandins, Leukotrienes and Essential Fatty Acids"; The Effect of Gamma-Linolenic Acid, an in Vitro Cytostatic Substance Contained in Evening Primrose Oil, on Primary Liver Cancer; July 1990
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Omega-3 Fatty Acids; June 2009
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