Evening primrose oil (Oenothera biennis)

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Other names for evening primrose oil

evening primrose oil

Synopsis of evening primrose oil

Evening primrose oil (EPO) is a golden-yellow oil cold-pressed from the seeds of Evening Primrose (Oenothera biennis), a flowering plant native to North America. It is best known for its high content of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA)—an anti-inflammatory omega-6 essential fatty acid that the body converts into prostaglandins, which regulate inflammation, hormone balance, and skin function.

Key constituents include:

  • Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) – typically 7–10% of the oil
  • Linoleic acid (LA) – 65–80%
  • Vitamin E and other antioxidants

Therapeutically, evening primrose oil is used to:

  • Balance hormones in conditions like PMS, menopause, and cyclic breast pain
  • Improve skin health, especially in eczema, acne, and atopic dermatitis
  • Support joint function in mild rheumatoid arthritis
  • Reduce nerve pain (neuropathy), particularly in diabetic patients
  • Assist with fertility and cervical mucus quality
  • Potentially improve symptoms of ADHD, dry eyes, and inflammatory conditions

Evening primrose oil is usually taken orally in capsule form, though it can also be used topically for eczema and irritated skin. Standard dosages range from 500 mg to 3,000 mg daily, depending on the condition and concentration of GLA.

Historical Use
Evening primrose was traditionally used by Native American tribes, who applied the plant for wound healing, skin inflammation, gastrointestinal upset, and respiratory infections. The leaves, roots, and seedpods were used in poultices and infusions long before the oil was extracted and studied.

In the 17th century, the plant was introduced to Europe, where it became known as the "King’s cure-all" due to its broad spectrum of traditional uses. It was used in folk medicine for bruises, sore throats, and women's health.

The oil itself began gaining medical interest in the 20th century, when researchers discovered its GLA content and potential in managing eczema and premenstrual syndrome. Evening primrose oil quickly became a cornerstone of natural women's health supplements, and has since been studied for its role in fatty acid metabolism, inflammatory modulation, and skin barrier function.

Today, EPO is widely used in:

  • Naturopathic and integrative protocols for hormone and skin support
  • Dermatological applications, often combined with borage or flaxseed oil
  • Nutritional regimens for chronic inflammation, autoimmunity, and women’s reproductive care

Its mild nature and versatile applications make it one of the most trusted plant-based therapeutic oils in modern herbalism and nutritional therapy.

Evening primrose oil is used for these health conditions

Acne (Traditional)
Arthritis (Scientific)
Breast Lumps (Scientific)
Breasts (swelling and tenderness) (Traditional)
Dysmenorrhea (Traditional)
Eczema (Scientific)
Endometriosis (Traditional)
Hot Flashes (Traditional)
Menopause (Traditional)
Menstrual Irregularity (Traditional)
PMS (general) (Traditional)
PMS Type H (Traditional)
Rheumatoid Arthritis (Scientific)
Skin (dry and/or flaky) (Scientific)
Vaginal Dryness (Traditional)

evening primrose oil is used to support these body systems

Breasts (Traditional)
Female Reproductive System (Traditional)
Joints (Traditional)
Ovaries (Traditional)
Prostaglandins (Scientific)
Reproductive System (Traditional)
Skin (Scientific)
Vagina (Traditional)