Evidence supporting the use of: Evening primrose oil
For the body system: Breasts

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Evening primrose oil (EPO) is traditionally used to support breast health, particularly for alleviating breast pain (mastalgia), often associated with the menstrual cycle. The oil is rich in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an omega-6 fatty acid thought to have anti-inflammatory effects. Historical and folk medicine sources have recommended EPO to women experiencing cyclic breast discomfort, and it has been marketed for this purpose for decades. However, scientific evidence supporting its efficacy is limited. Clinical studies, including several randomized controlled trials and systematic reviews, have generally found that EPO is no more effective than placebo in relieving breast pain. The 2013 Cochrane review, for example, concluded that there is little to no evidence supporting the benefit of EPO for mastalgia. Despite this, its use persists due to anecdotal accounts and its long-standing place in traditional and alternative medicine. In summary, while EPO has a tradition of use for breast health, especially for cyclical breast pain, scientific validation is weak, and most reputable guidelines do not recommend it as a first-line therapy.

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