Evening Primrose Oil

Evening primrose oil is extracted from the seeds of the evening primrose plant. This oil is rich in Vitamin E and GLA (Gamma Linolenic Acid). Evening primrose oil is recommended for women as a nutritional supplement since it is rich in essential fatty acids, omega-6 fatty acids and has medicinal properties. The benefits of evening primrose oil are said to extend to alleviating the discomforts of PMS and eczema, breast pain and rheumatoid arthritis.

Evening primrose oil

Evening primrose oil is derived from the seeds of a small yellow wildflower Oenothera biennis and has been hailed as a rich source of gamma linoleic acid, an EFA (Essential Fatty Acid). This plant is a native of North America and the flower bears a resemblance to the English primrose. It is also found in Europe and parts of Asia. It is referred to as 'night candle' in Germany.

Since early times, the oil from the primrose plant was used to treat stomach ache, bruises and hemorrhoids. A rich source of Vitamin E, evening primrose oil is available in soft gel, oil and capsule form.Evening primrose oil has a rich content of fatty acids. It also contains campestrol and beta-sitosterol.

GLA is converted by the body into prostaglandin - substance that posses properties for controlling inflammation, clotting the blood and synthesizing cholesterol properties. The anti-inflammatory properties of evening primrose provide relief for those suffering from rheumatoid arthritis. It is still unclear as to how much of GLA is produced within the body and how much is enough. Supplements of Evening primrose oil have shown benefits in cases of skin afflictions such as itching, redness and drying.

Evening primrose oil and menopause

Evening primrose oil supplements are often suggested for menopausal women to alleviate symptoms such as headaches, rapid hormonal fluctuations, fluid retention and breast tenderness. A capsule of evening primrose everyday for about 4 - 6 weeks gives you a constant supply of essential fatty acids. Other benefits of evening primrose oil supplements include pain control, reduction of inflammation and swelling and improving immune response. Evening primrose supplements during menopause aid in reduction of hot flashes and depressive feelings.

Evening primrose oil benefit

There is no regulation by the FDA on herbs and dietary supplements. Scientists have studied the benefits of evening primrose oil so that it can be prescribed for specific ailments.

• This oil has been used to treat women with menstrual pains and for improving fertility. It is claimed that Evening primrose oil aids in the production of quality cervical mucus that aids fertilization.
  
  
• Evening primrose oil is said to benefit heart patients by lowering blood cholesterol and reducing the risk of blood clots. Evening primrose oil has shown gradual decrease in triglyceride levels by increasing HDL and reducing LDL. Including evening primrose oil supplements can reduce high blood pressure. It's ability to reduce high serum cholesterol and blood pressure may take several weeks to notice results.
  
  
• Evening Primrose Oil provides your body with a rich source of gamma linolenic acid (GLA), an omega 6 fatty acid that supports the body's heart, nervous, immune and reproductive systems. The GLA contained in evening primrose oil is a nutrient used by the body to maintain healthy cells and vital body functions.
  
  
• Evening primrose oil is known to provide relief from inflammation by enhancing health and strength of cell membranes. Patients on evening primrose oil supplements have experienced lesser joint pain and swelling caused by rheumatoid arthritis.
  
  
• Taking evening primrose oil internally enhances prostaglandin production that is vital for body functions such as controlling inflammation, regulation of fluid balance and blood clotting as well as hormone production. Prostaglandin can also promote healthy immune system by managing the release of lymphokines that can activate or inhibit immune system cells.
  
  
• Evening primrose oil with its rich supplies of GLA can moisturize your skin and protect it from environmental oxidization. 0.5 - 3 grams of GLA are adequate daily dosage for providing relief from skin conditions of eczema. Essential fatty acids in evening primrose oil can help dilute sebum and reduce the chances of acne and skin lesions. It is also used to treat rosacea by reducing redness and inflammation. The essential fatty acids prevent nails from cracking and keeps them healthy. It can also help in treating many hair problems.
  
  
• Nerve damage caused by diabetes can be prevented with evening primrose oil supplements.

Those with allergies to certain plants must be careful when trying out evening primrose oil. Sometimes side effects such as stomach pain, headache, nausea and loose stools are known to occur. Evening primrose oil can cause seizures when used along with phenothiazine drugs and anesthesia.