Evening Primrose Oil – the Omega-6 Booster

What is evening primrose oil?

The evening primrose belongs to the genus Oenothera.Primarily, it grows on the North and South American continents, but it has also been naturalized in Europe - unlike Lucuma and Reishi. About 350 years ago, it was brought to Europe as an ornamental plant and now also grows wild, for example, along railway embankments. The bright flowers, which only fully bloom at dusk, attract moths that also take care of the pollination. For the production of evening primrose oil, only the plant seeds of the evening primrose are used. There is no fixed harvest time, as the individual seeds undergo different ripening processes. Therefore, it is important for the growers to monitor the entire ripening process. Only when the delicate seeds have taken on a brown color can they be harvested with the utmost care. In a further processing step, the seeds are dried and then treated with a cold pressing process.This makes it possible to preserve the valuable ingredients of the seeds.

Evening Primrose Oil – Ingredients

Evening primrose oil contains valuable ingredients, with a large portion being fatty acids. Due to the high content of healthy fatty acids, evening primrose oil can serve as an alternative to conventional oils from flaxseed or sunflower.

• Gamma Linolenic Acid: Gamma linolenic acid is a triple unsaturated omega-6 fatty acid that is primarily used for high blood pressure and neurodermatitis. Additionally, this fatty acid is said to help limit inflammation and reduce scarring.

• Linoleic Acid: Linoleic acid is also one of the triple unsaturated fatty acids. Users primarily know this fatty acid as an additive in creams.The anti-inflammatory properties of fatty acids are used in the treatment of acne or for the therapy of inflammatory skin areas. Linoleic acid is also utilized for scar prevention, as it is said to strengthen the skin barrier.

• Oleic acid: It is classified as a monounsaturated fatty acid and can exert its effects deep within the skin. It is particularly commonly used to prevent skin cracks and dry skin areas. Especially in the cooler seasons, it protects the sensitive skin barrier from cold damage.

• Polyphenols: These ingredients are attributed with special properties. Among other things, they are said to prevent fat deposits within blood vessels and cells, which is also supposed to prevent vascular calcification. Some polyphenols are also believed to have a positive effect on the course of Alzheimer's disease.But the skin also benefits from the anti-inflammatory properties of polyphenols.

• Vitamin E: There is a good reason why many cosmetic products contain Vitamin E. Its antioxidant effect is said to effectively reduce fine lines and thus rejuvenate the skin's appearance. Additionally, Vitamin E could play a significant role for the heart muscle and blood vessels. Vitamin E is found in both Gotu Kola and evening primrose oil. 

 

Evening Primrose Oil – Application

The positive effects of evening primrose oil on the skin have been described for a long time. Some studies have focused on the positive influence of evening primrose oil on atopic dermatitis.

Evening primrose oil is used for the following diseases and complaints:

• Neurodermatitis
• Psoriasis
• Acne
• Dry skin
• Itchy skin
• Wounded skin
• Arthritis (rheumatoid)
• Allergies
• Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
• Complaints during menopause
• Headaches
• Regulation of fat metabolism

Evening primrose oil – Effects

Evening primrose oil is used for various complaints and diseases. Positive effects on the skin have been particularly observed.

Evening primrose oil for skin problems

Evening primrose oil can have a soothing effect on stressed skin. Acne patients typically suffer from itching and pain. Acne also causes aesthetic problems, making those affected feel very uncomfortable.Scars often develop from acne lesions. Evening primrose oil contains omega-3 fatty acids that can regulate fat metabolism. Additionally, the ingredient can have a soothing effect on the skin and improve the complexion. Therefore, evening primrose oil is often used as a complementary treatment for acne therapy. Patients with atopic dermatitis also report complaints. Persistent severe itching, dry skin, and eczema can significantly restrict daily life. Evening primrose oil can have a soothing effect on flaking, itching, and redness. Patients with psoriasis also report positive experiences with evening primrose oil. For them, itching and redness have diminished. Additionally, the skin is provided with moisture. Patients with skin diseases should be patient, as the oil takes several weeks to unfold its positive properties. However, not always is a disease the cause of dry, tight skin that itches.External influences, such as frequent washing or cold, can put a significant strain on the skin. Evening primrose oil can help maintain the skin's acid mantle. At the same time, the ingredients in evening primrose oil have anti-inflammatory and soothing effects. Allergy sufferers can also benefit from the oils contained.

Evening Primrose Oil for Menopausal and Menstrual Discomfort

Menstrual discomforts such as abdominal pain, breast tenderness, migraine attacks, fatigue, and depressive moods affect many women monthly. Hormonal fluctuations are often the cause of these complaints. Evening primrose oil has anti-inflammatory properties and is said to have a positive effect on the so-called prostaglandins. As a result, evening primrose oil is said to significantly reduce menstrual discomfort.Women in menopause primarily complain about symptoms such as fatigue, irritability, weight gain, hot flashes, and headaches. These symptoms are also triggered by hormonal fluctuations, for example, by a declining estrogen level. With the help of evening primrose oil, it is said to be possible to rebalance the hormones. Additionally, the oil is said to have a positive effect on the skin and fat metabolism.

Evening Primrose Oil Studies

Science has also taken notice of the oil from the evening primrose and is investigating the positive effects of the plant on humans.

Effect on the Skin

In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, healthy adults were administered Efamol evening primrose oil in capsule form. At certain intervals, the skin of the participants was checked for moisture, redness, firmness, elasticity, resistance to fatigue, roughness, and water loss through the skin.After 12 weeks, it was found that almost all variables - with the exception of redness - had changed compared to the placebo group. The authors of the study concluded that the gamma-linolenic acid contained has a significant impact on the function and structure of the skin ¹. Another study focused on the benefits of evening primrose oil in atopic dermatitis. For this, 14 patients with atopic dermatitis, who had itchy, scaly, and dry skin, were treated with evening primrose oil. The study also included determining the serum levels of gamma-interferon (IFN-gamma) and IgE antibodies. The researchers aimed to find out whether evening primrose oil might be immunologically effective. After the observation period, it became clear that the patients had a better skin appearance and less itching.The IFN-gamma levels showed a higher value, and the serum IgE levels showed a lower value. From the treatment results, the scientists conclude that evening primrose oil is suitable for the treatment of a non-inflammatory form of atopic dermatitis. ².

Evening Primrose Oil for Women

As part of a study, researchers wanted to find out whether a combination of vitamin E and evening primrose oil or the individual components alone could have a positive effect on periodically occurring pain. For this purpose, a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study model was chosen, in which 85 women with premenstrual, periodically occurring breast pain participated. Through random allocation, four groups were formed. Over a period of 6 months, the participants either took the combination or the individual substances in different dosages. In the fourth group, only a placebo was administered.The scientists measured the changes regarding breast pain within the study. For this purpose, they used a pain questionnaire. After the completion of the study, the differences in the groups were recorded. It was found that a daily dosage (over 6 months) of 1200 IU of Vitamin E and 3000 mg of evening primrose oil or Vitamin E and evening primrose oil in combination - at the same dosage - could reduce breast pain ³. Another study focused on hot flashes during menopause and to what extent evening primrose oil could have a positive effect on the symptoms. The placebo-controlled, randomized study involved 56 women and was conducted over a period of 6 weeks. The participants received two capsules of evening primrose oil (equivalent to an amount of 500 mg) or a placebo.It was observed that the complaints significantly decreased and the women were able to increasingly engage in their activities, social contacts, and sexuality ⁴

Evening primrose oil and inflammatory bowel diseases

A study focused on whether medicinal plants can positively influence the course of inflammatory bowel diseases such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. It was found that evening primrose oil, which is rich in gamma-linolenic acid, could indeed have a positive effect on the course of ulcerative colitis. Therefore, the authors of the study consider evening primrose oil to be a suitable supportive measure in the treatment of ulcerative colitis ⁵

Evening primrose oil - intake

Evening primrose oil can be applied both internally and externally. The method of application depends on the underlying complaints.

Evening Primrose Oil - Internal Use

Users have the option to take evening primrose oil either pure or in the form of capsules. The easiest way is to take about one teaspoon of evening primrose oil daily. If you do not want to swallow the oil, you can also mix it into food and drinks. This internal application is especially suitable for people with inflammation in the stomach and intestinal area. Many people rely on evening primrose oil capsules to meet their need for valuable oils. Pre-dosed, they offer a simple way to properly dose evening primrose oil.  

Evening Primrose Oil - External Use

Pure evening primrose oil is excellent for skin care. It can be applied thinly and massaged into heavily stressed skin. Generally, it absorbs quickly and leaves no annoying greasy film. Flaking skin can also be treated with a cotton pad that has been soaked in evening primrose oil.After about 60 minutes of exposure, the scales can be more easily removed. The underlying skin can be treated with a few drops of evening primrose oil. For larger skin areas, wraps made with warm water and a small amount of evening primrose oil are suitable. Regardless of whether evening primrose oil is used internally or externally, it takes some time for the ingredients to have a positive effect on the body. Especially patients suffering from persistent skin conditions such as acne or atopic dermatitis need to be a little patient. Only after several weeks to months can it be determined whether evening primrose oil has had a positive effect.

Dosage

The pure oil can be drizzled over a salad or mixed into a drink. An overdose is hardly possible with a usual amount. For pre-dosed capsules, the package inserts provide recommendations on how often the product should be taken.Typically, for skin rashes, 1 to 4 capsules are taken daily over a treatment period of 12 weeks. People with rheumatoid arthritis should take 20-30 ml of evening primrose oil daily, with the treatment duration being a maximum of one year, but at least 3 months. To achieve weight loss goals, individuals should take 3-5 g daily with meals. For skin issues, the pure oil should be applied thinly twice a day for 4 months. Additionally, evening primrose oil capsules can be taken to support the healing process.

Evening Primrose Oil – Side Effects

When taking evening primrose oil, side effects may occur in rare cases. These include headaches, gastrointestinal discomfort, and nausea. If users repeatedly experience side effects, they should refrain from taking it.People who have an allergy to plants should pay special attention to any potential side effects. To rule out interactions, individuals suffering from epilepsy who are also pregnant or breastfeeding should consult their doctor before taking any medication. Women with estrogen-dependent breast cancer should also seek medical advice first. Some components of evening primrose oil may have a blood pressure-lowering effect. Here too, it is advised to consult a doctor first if users have low blood pressure. The same applies to pregnant women or individuals with chronic illnesses.

Buy evening primrose oil

Evening primrose oil can provide the body with valuable fatty acids. Its use is also suitable for vegans and vegetarians. Users should obtain evening primrose oil products from a trusted retailer.References to good quality are provided by the DE-Öko seal and the BIO seal. This gives the buyer the assurance that strict quality controls are applied during production. Indications such as "100% pure" and "cold-pressed" suggest a professional and gentle manufacturing process of the products. Users are often confused by the cloudy appearance of evening primrose oil. However, pure evening primrose oil is naturally cloudy, which is not an indication of poor quality. Users are advised to prefer small bottles, as evening primrose oil can spoil quickly due to exposure to oxygen. Those who want to be on the safe side prefer the capsule form. This way, the evening primrose oil is optimally dosed and has a correspondingly long shelf life.

Sources:

1. Muggli R.: Systemic evening primrose oil improves the biophysical skin parameters of healthy adults.http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18492193

2. Yoon S, Lee J, Lee S. - Department of Dermatology, College of Medicine, Inha University, Inchon, Republic of Korea: The therapeutic effect of evening primrose oil in atopic dermatitis patients with dry scaly skin lesions is associated with the normalization of serum gamma-interferon levels. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11803254

3. Pruthi S et al. - Breast Diagnostic Clinic, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA: Vitamin E and evening primrose oil for management of cyclical mastalgia: a randomized pilot study: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20359269

4. Farzaneh F, Fatehi S, Sohrabi MR, Alizadeh K.: The effect of oral evening primrose oil on menopausal hot flashes: a randomized clinical trial, Arch Gynecol Obstet. 2013 Nov;288(5):1075-9.https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23625331

5. Triantafyllidi A, Xanthos T, Papalois A, Triantafillidis JK.: Herbal and plant therapy in patients with inflammatory bowel disease. Ann Gastroenterol. 2015 Apr-Jun;28(2):210-220, http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25830661