Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Evening Primrose Oil (EPO) is commonly used to alleviate breast pain and tenderness, especially in the context of cyclical mastalgia (breast pain associated with the menstrual cycle). The rationale for its use is based on its high content of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an omega-6 fatty acid that is believed to influence prostaglandin synthesis and, in turn, modulate inflammatory responses in breast tissue.

Several clinical trials have investigated EPO’s efficacy for cyclical mastalgia. A 2010 Cochrane review found that while EPO is widely used, the quality of evidence supporting its effectiveness is limited, with most studies showing no statistically significant benefit over placebo. Some small studies have reported mild improvements, but these results are inconsistent and often subject to bias. The review concluded that there is insufficient high-quality evidence to recommend EPO as a first-line treatment for breast pain.

Despite the weak scientific evidence, EPO continues to be recommended by some practitioners and is popular among patients, likely due to its favorable safety profile and anecdotal reports of benefit. In summary, while the use of Evening Primrose Oil for breast swelling and tenderness has some scientific justification, the overall evidence is weak and inconsistent, and it should not be considered a proven or primary therapy.

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