Evening Primrose Oil

Evening Primrose is native to North America.

Originally used for the treatment of asthma, stomach and digestive disorders and bruises, it is the oil in this plant that has renewed interest in this herb. The oil found in the plant's small seeds is high in GLA (gamma-linolenic acid), an essential polyunsaturated fatty acid that is converted into prostaglandins, internal messengers with powerful biological actions.

Studies have shown that Evening Primrose Oil lowers blood cholesterol. It has been used to treat the symptoms associated with premenstrual syndrome - irritability, headaches, breast tenderness and bloating. It has also been helpful in the treatment of eczema. There are claims that increased doses help rheumatoid arthritis and slows the progression of multiple sclerosis.

Recommended for:

• Premenstrual syndrome
• Allergies and bronchial asthma ·high blood cholesterol
• Skin conditions such as acne, eczema and psoriasis
• Autoimmune conditions (multiple sclerosis, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma)
• Obesity
• Diabetes mellitus
• Immune system depression

Precautions

Evening Primrose Oil has few side effects. However, it may cause an occasional headache, nausea if taken on an empty stomach, and diarrhea if taken in high doses. Evening Primrose 0il should not be used by patients with certain types of epilepsy.