Evening primrose oil is a herbal extract obtained from the seeds of the flowers Oenothera Bennis plant. It is a native plant to North America and widely grown in Europe and parts of Asia. It gets the name from its yellow flowers, which blossom in the evening. The plant has been used since times immemorial for treating several health woes owing to its indispensable medicinal and therapeutic properties.
The oil is bestowed with vast reserves of omega 6 essential fatty acids, gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) both of which forms the vital component of myelin, the protective coating around nerve cells and fibers. It is known for its potential hormone balancing, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
Evening primrose oil (EPO) is not an essential oil used for aromatherapy, but it is generally taken as a supplement or applied topically which aid in the treatment of acne, diabetic neuropathy, eczema, psoriasis, osteoporosis and premenstrual syndrome (PMS).
Evening Primrose Oil Supplement Health Benefits
Treats Acne
The goodness of gamma-linolenic acid in evening primrose oil is well-known to heal acne by reducing skin inflammation and lesions. It also helps to lock the moisture and improve skin appearance. The strong anti-inflammatory effects of evening primrose oil supplement reduce blemishes, redness and cures other skin issues like eczema and psoriasis.
Promotes Skin Health
Evening primrose oil comprised of gamma-linolenic acid is renowned for enhancing the skin epidermis, cell turnover and repairs damaged skin cells. It diffuses deep into the skin layers, smoothen the skin cells and boosts collagen production, for enhanced elasticity, and makes the skin firm and radiant. EPO supplements are highly valuable in promoting skin structure, function and in maintaining overall skin health.
Relieves PMS Symptoms
Evening primrose oil has been extensively used by women for managing hot flashes during menopause. It is also highly beneficial in treating premenstrual syndrome symptoms like depression, irritability and bloating. The richness of essential omega 6 fatty acids works well in preventing prolactin from triggering PMS. Aside from this, EPO supplement is believed to lessen inflammation and inhibit prostaglandins secretion that causes breast pain during the menstrual cycle.
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Augments Heart Health
Evening primrose oil is a storehouse of antioxidants reduces bad cholesterol level and keep the good cholesterol up. Immense amounts of omega 6 fatty acids in evening primrose oil supplement is extremely beneficial for the heart, reduces inflammation and also avert the risk of heart attacks and blockages.
Reduces Nerve Pain
Peripheral neuropathy is a common health effect of uncontrolled Diabetes Mellitus. Several piece of evidence have shown that linolenic acids help in easing neuropathic symptoms like hot and cold sensitivity, numbness, and tingling and nerve weakness. In addition, the analgesic property of EPO supplement assists in relieving debilitating nerve pain affecting legs and feet.
Prevents Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease affecting the joints. Studies have disclosed that EPO supplement rich in omega 6 fatty acids and antioxidants aids in easing pain and improving the normal functioning of the joints in people with rheumatoid arthritis.
Enhances Overall Skin Health
The presence of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) in evening primrose oil is highly efficient in improving skin structure and function from the inside out. As the skin cannot make GLA, taking this supplement rich in GLA may support augmenting overall skin health and keeps skin hydrated. Furthermore, a study revealed that oral supplementation of evening primrose oil may help to keep the skin smooth and optimise its elasticity, firmness, and fatigue resistance.
Eases Breast Pain
The goodness of gamma-linolenic acid in evening primrose oil is beneficial to reduce inflammation and inhibit the secretion of prostaglandins that cause cyclical breast pain. Moreover, a study revealed that evening primrose oil was as effective as topical nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in easing pain. Moreover, this supplement is safe and unlikely to cause any adverse reactions.
Subdues Multiple Sclerosis
Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disease that affects the nerves in the brain and spinal cord. Research revealed that supplementing evening primrose oil for multiple sclerosis helped to ease pain, fatigue, and improved cognitive function.
Supplements
Evening Primrose oil supplements are available in the form of tablets, capsules, soft gels and liquids.
Side Effects
Evening primrose oil is considered safe for use for most people. However, always seek the help of your healthcare provider before taking any supplements regarding the dosage and usage. The side effects of EPO supplement include stomach upset, abdominal cramp and headache. In a very rare case, taking evening primrose oil supplement may cause an allergic reaction such as rashes, wheezing and breathing difficulty. Research is limited regarding its safety for use by pregnant and breastfeeding women and hence not recommended.
