The Benefits of Evening Primrose Oil
Properties
Contra-indications/Precautions
Latin name: Oenothera biennis.
Evening Primrose Oil, (EPO), is extracted from the seeds of Oenothera
biennis, which is not actually a member of the Primrose family, but is part of the Willow
herb family. The plant acquired the primrose
name because its bright yellow flowers resemble primrose flowers, and its flowers open in
the evening, hence its current name. The
plant has a two-year cycle, and it is during the second year that the flowers appear, from
which seeds are eventually harvested.
The origins of the plant were in North America, from where it came to
the UK by accident when cargo ships bringing cotton over, dumped the soil brought back as
ballast, and seeds began to grow. The plant
was officially introduced in 1614 into Europe, and rapidly became known as ‘Kings
Cure All’ because of its useful medicinal properties.
EPO was not examined closely, however, until 1919, when the gamma
linolenic acid (GLA) content was reported in Germany, and consequently its effects on cell
generation and cholesterol levels were soon monitored.
This led eventually to experiments that have given us the depth of knowledge that
we have about this product today.
EPO has been shown to be beneficial for a wide range of conditions.
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) – has been shown to eradicate
swollen abdomen and breast discomfort as well as reducing irritability and depression.
Eczema and other skin disorders – available on
prescription for eczema Psoriasis may be helped by EPO and Fish Oils.
Cholesterol and Blood Pressure – has been shown to reduce
high serum cholesterol and blood pressure, but may take several weeks or longer to achieve.
Rheumatoid Arthritis – sufferers have discontinued use of
non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs after supplementation, but it is more effective when
taken in conjunction with fish oils.
Alcoholism – may make withdrawal easier, and reduce
post-drinking depression.
Immune System – low levels of essential fatty acids may
stop the action of interferon, and body’s natural virus killer.
Other conditions – Obesity, Benign Breast Disease,
Childhood Hyperactivity and Schizophrenia have all been shown to be helped by EPO
supplementation.
EPO is rich in the fatty acid gamma linolenic acid (GLA), which is an
important intermediary in the metabolic conversion of linolenic acid into Prostaglandin E1
(PGE1). PGE1 is one of many prostaglandins
which are interconvertible, and which modulate the action of many hormones.
Quality of Evening Primrose Oil
It might be worth considering taking Cold pressed Evening Primrose Oil as the action of cold pressing
helps to keep the quality of the essential nutrients. Vitamin UK belives that quality and choice of Health supplements is important and
stocks Natures Aid Cold Pressed Evening Primrose oil.
Natures Aid is one of only a few manufacturers who supply Cold Pressed Evening Primrose Oil
Evening Primrose Oil for Vegetarians
Evening Primrose Oil is available for Vegetarians as either a liquid by
companies such as ESI Laboratories or in vegetarian capsule form by Arkopharma.
Suggested Dosage
Most people take 2 x 500mg per day, but it may be more
effective if you take between 3 to 6 capsules of 500mg per day.
Should be avoided by persons taking blood-thinning products such as
aspirin and warfarin. Not recommended for
people with temporal lobe epilepsy. Probably
best avoided during pregnancy due to effects on hormones.
Further Reading:-
Articles:
Read about other products for Women
Dong Quai
Isoflavones
Starflower Oil
Wild Yam
Read about some of the many Ailments that are helped by
Evening Primrose Oil
