Evening Primrose Oil (EPO) is the oil derived from the seeds of the evening primrose (Oenothera biennis) plant. The seeds of the flower are collected, macerated, and after that cold-pressed to obtain the oil. The oil is then encapsulated for a dietary supplements. EPO is generally taken as a supplement or applied topically.

 EPO is rich in omega-6 essential fatty acids (EFAs) such as Linoleic acid (LA) and Gamma linoleic acid (GLA).  The therapeutic effects of EPO are due to the direct action of its component EFAs on immune cells, as well as their indirect effect on the synthesis of eicosanoids (e.g., prostaglandins, cytokines, cytokine mediators). Dietary omega-3 and omega-6 EFAs can reduce the effects of highly unsaturated fatty acids in tissues and eicosanoid actions, which are attributed to various inflammatory and immunologic responses.

Evening primrose oil soft gels are effectively used for atopic dermatitis (a type of eczema), relieves pain and swelling associated with rheumatoid arthritis, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), and menopause symptoms.

 EPO is rich in polyunsaturated omega 6-fatty acids like GLA and LA that helps reduce pain and inflammation. It helps reduce the neuropathy symptoms of diabetes too.

 

 

Improves overall Skin Health

GLA is a key element for ideal skin structure and function. Because the skin can’t produce GLA on its own, so need a dietary supplement to rejuvenate skin complexion and elasticity.  EPO provides smooth skin and improves its elasticity, moisture, and complexion.

 

 

Effective for Neuropathic Pain

GLA is an omega-6 fatty acid that is an essential component of the neuronal cell membranes and helps to reduce neuropathic pain by exhibiting anti-inflammatory effects. As an essential component of neuronal cell membranes, EPO is used for peripheral diabetic neuropathy.

 

 

 EPO reduces Hot Flashes

EPO reduces the severity of hot flashes, one of the most uncomfortable side effects of menopause. EPO is rich in GLA that helps to counter hormonal changes associated with menopause.

 

 

 Relieves Pain and swelling associated with Rheumatoid Arthritis

Golden EPO is rich in omega-6 fatty acids that can help control pain and inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis. GLA regulates the immune system and suppresses joint inflammation by directly acting on inflammatory cells.

 

 

Helps relieve symptoms of Eczema

 Eczema is a skin condition that causes a red, itchy and sometimes painful rash. EPO modulates inflammatory response associated with Eczema and improves skin epidermis.

 

 

May help relieve PMS Symptoms

Premenstrual syndrome symptoms can start a couple of weeks before your period begins and go away around the time your period starts.

PMS symptoms;

• Depression

• Tender breasts

• Bloating

• Irritability

EPO can reduce PMS symptoms, especially breast tenderness just before a period.

Evening primrose oil contains an essential unsaturated fatty acid called gamma Linoleic acid (GLA). GLA is converted in the body into chemicals called prostaglandins. Prostaglandins have anti-inflammatory actions.

 

 

References

BRYAN BAYLES, P. a. (2019, December 15). Evening Primrose Oil. Retrieved from American Family Physicians: https://www.aafp.org/afp/2009/1215/p1405.html

Debra Rose Wilson, P. M.-B. (2019, March 7). 10 Benefits of Evening Primrose Oil and How to Use It. Retrieved from HealthLine: https://www.healthline.com/health/evening-primrose-oil

Evening Primrose Oil. (n.d.). Retrieved from National Centre for Complementary and Integrative Health: https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/evening-primrose-oil

EVENING PRIMROSE OIL. (n.d.). Retrieved from WebMD: https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-1006/evening-primrose-oil

Korting, M. K. (n.d.). Treatment of atopic eczema with evening primrose oil: rationale and clinical results. Retrieved from SpringerLink: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/BF00227362

 

 

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