Evening Primrose Oil

Evening Primrose Oil, (EPO), is extracted from the seeds of Oenothera biennis, which is not actually a member of the Primrose family, but is part of the Willow herb family. The plant acquired the primrose name because its bright yellow flowers resemble primrose flowers, and its flowers open in the evening, hence its current name. The plant has a two-year cycle, and it is during the second year that the flowers appear, from which seeds are eventually harvested. The origins of the plant were in North America, from where it came to the UK by accident when cargo ships bringing cotton over, dumped the soil brought back as ballast, and seeds began to grow. The plant was officially introduced in 1614 into Europe, and rapidly became known as Kings Cure All because of its useful medicinal properties.

Essential Fatty Acids
EPO is rich in the fatty acid gamma linolenic acid (GLA), which is an important intermediary in the metabolic conversion of linolenic acid into Prostaglandin E1 (PGE1). PGE1 is one of many prostaglandins which are interconvertible, and which modulate the action of many hormones. It might be worth considering taking Cold pressed Evening Primrose Oil as the action of cold pressing helps to keep the quality of the essential nutrients.

Suggested Dosage
Most people take 2 x 500mg per day, but it may be more effective if you take between 3 to 6 capsules of 500mg per day.

The Benefits of Evening Primrose Oil

EPO has been shown to be beneficial for a wide range of conditions.

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) – has been shown to eradicate swollen abdomen and breast discomfort as well as reducing irritability and depression.

Eczema and other skin disorders – available on prescription for eczema Psoriasis may be helped by EPO and Fish Oils. Cholesterol and Blood Pressure – has been shown to reduce high serum cholesterol and blood pressure, but may take several weeks or longer to achieve.

Rheumatoid Arthritis – sufferers have discontinued use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs after supplementation, but it is more effective when taken in conjunction with fish oils.

Alcoholism – may make withdrawal easier, and reduce post-drinking depression. Immune System – low levels of essential fatty acids may stop the action of interferon, and body’s natural virus killer.

Other conditions – Obesity, Benign Breast Disease, Childhood Hyperactivity and Schizophrenia have all been shown to be helped by EPO supplementation.

Quality of Evening Primrose Oil
EPO is rich in the fatty acid gamma linolenic acid (GLA), which is an important intermediary in the metabolic conversion of linolenic acid into Prostaglandin E1 (PGE1). PGE1 is one of many prostaglandins which are interconvertible, and which modulate the action of many hormones. It might be worth considering taking Cold pressed Evening Primrose Oil as the action of cold pressing helps to keep the quality of the essential nutrients Suggested Dosage

Most people take 2 x 500mg per day, but it may be more effective if you take between 3 to 6 capsules of 500mg per day. Contra-indications/Precautions

Should be avoided by persons taking blood-thinning products such as aspirin and warfarin. Not recommended for people with temporal lobe epilepsy. Probably best avoided during pregnancy due to effects on hormones.