Evening Primrose Oil (EPO) is extracted from the seeds of the Onagraceae family of plants. The Oil of Evening Primrose is believed to provide a wide range of healing powers.
EVENING PRIMROSE OIL is derived from the seeds of the Evening Primrose plant. These seeds are about 60mm in length and the oil is used in medicines and cosmetics.
Evening primrose oil contains substantial amounts of polysaturated omega 6 fatty acids. These are essential fatty acids (EFAs) which are needed by the body to regulate a number of activities including insulin utilization, heart function, and mood. Since the body does not produce EFAs, they must be ingested through proper diet or supplementation. In addition to omega 6 fatty acids, evening primrose oil contains linoleic acid and gamma linolenic acid (GLA). Both linoleic acid and GLA are believed to have very positive health and medicinal benefits. Linoleic acid may affect how the body utilizes insulin, maintains weight, and fights cancer and heart disease. GLA may help to inhibit the body's production of chemicals that cause inflammation.
EVENING PRIMROSE OIL BENEFIT
Evening primrose oil may help to relieve pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS), symptoms of menopause, and breast pain due to hormonal changes during menstruation. Supplementary GLA, such as is supplied by evening primrose oil, appears to relieve some PMS symptoms. Both oral and topical forms of evening primrose oil have also been studied for treating acne, eczema, psoriasis, and other skin conditions. When used as a topical application on the skin, evening primrose oil has moisturizing and softening effects. Additional research indicates that individuals suffering from diabetes, scleroderma, Sjorgen's syndrome, and tardive dyskinesia may be deficient in GLA. Evening primrose oil has been used in connection with inflammatory conditions including both rheumatoid arthritis and asthma.
