This supplement is a boon for women who experience the trauma of menstrual cramps every month. It is known by its name because its light yellow flowers open at dusk.
The oil of evening primrose is very rich in polysaturated comega-6 fatty acids, which are necessary fatty acids that body needs to complete numerous functions including insulin absorption, regulating the heart, and regulating mood. The body does not manufacture these fatty acids on its own, so they have to be taken as food or food supplements. Aside from the omega-6 fatty acids, evening primrose oil has linoleic acid and gamma-linolenic acid (“GLA”). Both of these acids are very important and very beneficial to general well-being. GLA accounts for most of the supplement's therapeutic effects.
Eczema: One of the leading uses of evening primrose oil is to treat eczema, an allergic skin condition that may develop if the body has trouble converting fats derived from food into GLA. In a study of 60 people with eczema GLA in evening primrose oil was found to be superior in reducing the itching and oozing of the condition. 3-4 months use of this nutritional supplement helps in alleviating itching and reduce the need for topical steroid creams and drugs with their unpleasant side effects.
better than other sources of GLA, suggesting that evening primrose oil may be of value in reversing neuropathy.
Menstrual Disorders: Evening primrose oil can be effective for menstrual disorders such as premenstrual syndrome, menstrual cramps, and endometriosis because of its GLA content. Oil blocks the inflammatory prostaglandins that cause menstrual cramps. It also eases breast tenderness
experienced by women just before periods and to some extent plays a role in reversing infertililty also.
Dosage: Many experts recommend buying evening primrose oil that contains a small amount of vitamin E. The recommended therapeutic dose of evening primrose oil is generally 1g three times a day which supplies 240 mg of GLA a day.
Caution: Bloating or abdominal upset is seen in less than 2% of users. Consuming of evening primrose oil with food may lessen this effect. It is recommended to take this with meals to enhance absorption. It is available in the form of capsule, softgel and oil.