Oenothera biennis
Evening primrose oil is one of the most popular supplements for women’s health and dry skin. It is rich in a rare fatty acid with interesting properties – but the research is more mixed than its reputation suggests. Here is an honest look at what it can do.
What is evening primrose?
Evening primrose is a biennial plant with yellow flowers that open at dusk – hence the name. Its seeds are cold-pressed into an oil rich in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an omega-6 fatty acid that the body uses to produce anti-inflammatory messenger substances.
What evening primrose may do
1. PMS and breast pain
Many women use evening primrose oil for premenstrual symptoms such as mood swings and breast tenderness. Studies have produced mixed results: some women report relief, but overall the oil has not consistently performed better than a placebo. It may be worth trying for a few cycles if other measures have not helped.
2. Dry and sensitive skin
GLA is part of the skin’s barrier, and evening primrose oil is widely used in creams for dry, reactive skin. For eczema, however, large reviews have found that taking the oil by mouth does not work better than a placebo.
3. Heart and blood vessels
Its unsaturated fatty acids may have a small positive effect on cholesterol and blood pressure, but the evidence is limited. It is no substitute for exercise and a healthy diet.
4. Nerve health in diabetes
Some studies suggest GLA may ease symptoms of diabetic neuropathy, such as tingling and numbness. This application is still being researched.
How to use evening primrose
- Capsules – usually taken once or twice a day with meals; effects, if any, appear after several weeks.
- Cold-pressed oil – in salads or dressings; do not heat it.
- Skincare – in creams and oils for dry, sensitive skin.
Safety
Evening primrose oil is generally well tolerated but can cause mild digestive upset and headaches. It may increase the risk of bleeding with blood thinners and should be stopped about two weeks before surgery. Talk to your doctor if you have epilepsy or take medication for psychiatric conditions, and avoid it during pregnancy unless your doctor advises otherwise.
Worth knowing
- The flowers open within minutes at dusk and are pollinated by moths.
- Native Americans used the plant for wounds, coughs and digestive complaints.
- GLA is also found in borage oil and blackcurrant seed oil.
Summary
Evening primrose oil is a pleasant, generally safe source of GLA. It is well suited to skincare, and some women find it helpful for PMS – but the scientific evidence is weaker than many advertisements suggest, so set your expectations accordingly.
