Evening Primrose
Other names for Evening Primrose
certified organic evening primrose (oenthera biennis) dried seed liquid extract
certified organic evening primrose (oenthera biennis) flower liquid extract
evening primose oil
evening primose seed oil
evening primrose
evening primrose (1:1) extract
evening primrose aerial parts extract
evening primrose flower fluid extract
evening primrose flower glycerite liquid extract
evening primrose herb extract, dry
evening primrose herb glycerite liquid extract
evening primrose (oenothera biennis) defatted seed extract
evening primrose (oenothera biennis) extract
evening primrose [oenothera biennis l.] seed oil
evening primrose (oenothera biennis) oil
evening primrose (oenothera biennis) (seed) oil
evening primrose (oenothera biennis) seed oil
evening primrose oil, cold-pressed
evening primrose oil glycerite liquid extract
evening primrose powder
evening primrose, powder
evening primrose seed extract, powdered
evening primrose seed oil, cold-pressed
evening primrose seed oil concentrate
evening primrose seed oil, unrefined
infusion (1:6000) of oenothera deltoides
infusion (1:6000) of oenothera elata
infusion (1:6000) of oenothera hookeri
oenothera biennis
oenothera biennis aerial parts extract
oenothera biennis extract
oenothera biennis herb extract, dry
oenothera biennis oil
oenothera biennis, powder
oenothera biennis seed extract, powdered
oenothera biennis seed oil
oenothera biennis seed oil, cold-pressed
oenothera elata
evening primrose oil
Synopsis of Evening Primrose
History
Evening Primrose (Oenothera biennis) has a rich history of medicinal use, especially among Native American communities. Traditionally, various parts of the plant were utilized for their therapeutic benefits—roots were boiled as a remedy for hemorrhoids and stomach upsets, while poultices made from the plant were applied to bruises and minor wounds. With the advent of modern herbalism, Evening Primrose oil, extracted from the seeds, gained prominence due to its high content of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an essential omega-6 fatty acid.
Historically, Evening Primrose has been valued for supporting women’s health, particularly in alleviating symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), menopause, and breast pain (mastalgia). Its anti-inflammatory properties made it a popular remedy for eczema and other skin conditions. The soothing effects of the oil have also been explored in supporting joint health and reducing arthritic discomforts.
In herbal combinations, Evening Primrose oil often partners with borage and black currant seed oils, together amplifying the benefits of essential fatty acids for skin and hormonal balance. Herbalists may blend Evening Primrose with calming herbs like chamomile or valerian to further support women’s reproductive health and overall well-being.
Evening Primrose’s versatility and gentle action have made it a staple in both traditional and modern herbal formulations. Its remarkable contributions to women’s health, skin care, and inflammatory conditions underscore its enduring value as a natural remedy, inspiring ongoing interest and research in the field of plant-based medicine.
Traditional and scientific validation
Evening Primrose (Oenothera biennis) is a flowering plant native to North America, whose seeds are a rich source of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an omega-6 fatty acid. Historically, Native American communities utilized Evening Primrose for its purported benefits in treating wounds, inflammation, and various skin conditions. Its oil gained prominence in Western herbal medicine in the 20th century, primarily as a dietary supplement for women’s health and inflammatory disorders.
Scientific interest in Evening Primrose oil (EPO) has centered on its potential to alleviate symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), menopausal discomforts, eczema, and rheumatoid arthritis. Several clinical trials have examined its efficacy, with some studies reporting modest improvements in PMS-related symptoms and atopic dermatitis, possibly due to EPO's anti-inflammatory properties. For example, a review published in the Cochrane Database found limited but suggestive evidence that EPO may help alleviate some eczema symptoms, although results were not universally conclusive. Similarly, some women have reported relief from breast pain (mastalgia) with EPO supplementation, as noted in small-scale studies.
Despite these positive indications, larger and more rigorous clinical trials have sometimes yielded mixed or inconclusive results. Official guidelines in some countries do not universally endorse EPO for medical use, citing insufficient evidence for many claims. Nevertheless, Evening Primrose oil remains a popular ingredient in nutritional products due to its favorable safety profile and potential health benefits. Continued research is warranted to fully clarify its therapeutic roles, but current evidence suggests Evening Primrose can make a helpful contribution to holistic health regimens, especially regarding skin health and women’s wellness.
Evening Primrose is used for these health conditions
Acne (Traditional)
Arthritis (Scientific)
Breasts (swelling and tenderness) (Scientific)
Diabetes (Traditional)
Eczema (Scientific)
Inflammation (Scientific)
Menopause (Traditional)
Menstrual Irregularity (Traditional)
PMS (general) (Traditional)
Rheumatoid Arthritis (Scientific)
Skin (dry and/or flaky) (Scientific)
Vaginal Dryness (Traditional)
Evening Primrose is used to support these body systems
Female Reproductive System (Scientific)
Joints (Traditional)
Skin (Scientific)
Uterus (Traditional)
