Content Overview:Evening primrose oil - extracted from the seeds of the evening primrose herb (Oenothera biennis). The name of the plant comes from the yellow flowers that bloom at sunset and close during the day. You can learn more about this "magical" oil in this article onmybiopedia.com.
The main benefit of evening primrose oil is that it contains two types of omega-6 fatty acids-including linoleic acid (60%-80% of the fat) and γ-linoleic acid, also called gamma-linoleic acid or GLA (8%-14% of the fat. As you probably know, essential fatty acids are necessary for human health, but the body can't produce them on its own - so you need to get them from your diet.
Along with omega-3 fatty acids, omega-6 fatty acids play a critical role in immune function and brain function, as well as normal growth and development. In addition, these essential fats act as carriers of important fat-soluble vitamins - including vitamin A, vitamin D, vitamin E and vitamin K. For example, dietary fats are necessary for the conversion of carotene to vitamin A, the absorption of minerals and a host of other processes .
Read the full article to find out what the other benefits of evening primrose oil are.
#1 Benefit.
Evening primrose oil has proven to be a valuable treatment choice for people suffering from skin conditions such as acne, eczema, psoriasis, and atopic dermatitis. Studies published in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science even show that this miracle oil can also help with age-related structural and functional changes in skin tissues, such as redness, hardness, roughness and resistance to fatigue.
Studies have shown that evening primrose oil is extremely effective in relieving many symptoms of eczema, including itching, redness and swelling. In addition, evening primrose oil and the gamma-linolenic acid it contains aids in the process of improving skin moisture and reducing water loss through the skin. According to a reliable source, this omega-6 fatty acid has anti-inflammatory properties and significantly improves the function of the skin barrier.
#2 Benefit: Relieves symptoms of premenstrual syndrome.
Taking an evening primrose oil supplement twice daily for six weeks has been shown to reduce the intensity of hot flashes in premenstrual syndrome. During this period a woman may experience breast tenderness, bloating, water retention, acne, depression, irritability, foggy thinking and headaches. It has been shown that thanks to the gamma-linolenic acid contained in evening primrose oil, these symptoms significantly subside
#3 Benefit: Reduces the risk of osteoporosis
It has been shown that a diet rich in polyunsaturated fats can help reduce the risk of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women who are on hormone therapy. Evening primrose oil is rich in these fats and linolenic acid and has been found to improve bone mineral density among older adults.
Medical experts also say that a combination of evening primrose, fish oil and calcium can improve bone density and reduce bone loss.
#4 Benefit: Evening primrose oil reduces symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune and inflammatory disease that affects the joints. In a study conducted by the Australian Catholic University, it was concluded that gamma-linolenic acid from evening primrose oil may help relieve the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.
Taking 540 mg/day of gamma-linolenic acid through diet for six months was found to improve the condition. Additionally, the anti-inflammatory properties of evening primrose oil may help reduce inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis.
#5 Benefit: Helps hair growth
Women often struggle with hair loss and sometimes the best way to prevent this problem is through diet or taking vitamins and supplements. Although there hasn't been much research on the use of evening primrose remedy for hair loss, since the oil has been shown to improve inflammation and dry skin, it makes sense to transfer these benefits to the scalp and possibly help improve hair growth and quality.
Risks and side effects of evening primrose oil
In general, evening primrose oil is considered safe when used in the recommended dosages. Side effects are rare and may include headache, stomach upset, nausea, dizziness, and rash.
Recent research reveals that excessive intake of omega-6 fatty acids creates an imbalance that can interfere with the production of important prostaglandins. This disorder can lead to an increased tendency to form:
- Blood clots;
- inflammation;
- high blood pressure;
- irritation of the digestive tract;
- suppressed immune function;
- sterility;
weight gain, etc.
Recommendations for taking evening primrose oil in pregnancy vary. Experts advise not to undertake use until you have consulted your obstetrician gynecologist.
