Evening primrose (Oenothera biennis) is an herb native to North America. Its fragrant yellow blossoms that open up at night have made it a favorite in flower gardens for generations. Oil made from the seeds of evening primrose contains high levels of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), which can be beneficial for a number of health concerns. Evening primrose oil is generally safe, although the American Cancer Society reports that it may lower the seizure threshold for some people and may interact poorly with some prescription medications. Your doctor or naturopath can help you determine if evening primrose is right for you, and what dose you should take. Evening primrose oil is available in liquid or capsule form.
Women's Health
Evening primrose oil is primarily used for many aspects of women's health. Evening primrose oil may bring relief for the mood swings, depression, headache, body pain and bloating associated with premenstrual syndrome (PMS), and some women use it to tame hot flashes during menopause. Evening primrose oil is the go-to treatment for breast pain (mastalgia) in the United Kingdom and other part of Europe. Early studies show that evening primrose oil may slow the growth of tumors, and some women take evening primrose oil as a complementary medicine for breast cancer or cysts in the breasts or ovaries. However, more research is needed.
Eczema
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, clinical studies have shown that evening primrose oil is effective in treating many skin conditions, including eczema. Taking evening primrose oil by mouth can relieve itching, redness, flaking and crusting of the skin for both adults and children. There are also some commercial lotions and salves that are made with evening primrose oil.
Diabetes
Evening primrose oil may help relieve diabetic neuropathy, a condition where some people with diabetes experience tingling, pain or numbness in the feet or legs. Some herbalists also believe that evening primrose oil works to regulate insulin levels and may help prevent complications such as diabetic retinopathy and diabetic atherosclerosis.
Arthritis
The essential fatty acids in evening primrose oil have anti-inflammatory properties, and some people suffering from arthritis take evening primrose oil daily to lessen joint pain and improve flexibility. However, the evidence from scientific studies is inconsistent, and evening primrose oil may not work for everyone.
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