What are the Benefits of taking Evening Primrose Oil?

Shauna Leebetter
2022-03-08T10:19:09+00:00

Pressed from the evening primrose flower’s seeds, this popular supplement is loaded with GLA, an omega‑6 fat tied to inflammation control. Struggling with PMS cramps, breakouts, creaky joints or hot flushes? Evening primrose oil could help.

Read on to find out more about what EPO actually is, the real benefits (skin, PMS, joints, menopause and more), who should skip it, how much to take, and the side effects to watch.

What is Evening Primrose Oil?

Evening primrose oil comes from the seeds of the evening primrose flower. It's native to North America, but Europeans imported and cultivated the plant during the 1600s, so you'll now find evening primrose across Europe too.

When the seeds are squeezed, they release oil, which is used to create supplements. So, what makes evening primrose oil unique from other herbal supplements?

Well, it's packed with omega-6 fatty acids, especially gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). This GLA has been used to treat a range of symptoms because of its anti-inflammatory effects on the human body.

The Benefits of Evening Primrose Oil

Evening primrose oil offers a range of benefits, thanks to its high concentration of fatty acids. You can look forward to various benefits when you use dietary supplements containing the oil. However, it's also important to remember that some people respond differently to the supplement than others.

Reducing PMS Symptoms

Many women experience premenstrual syndrome each month, with symptoms ranging from mood swings to insomnia, acne, bloating, and painful, swollen breasts.

While studies are inconclusive, many women report a reduction in symptoms when using evening primrose oil (NIH). This includes reduced night sweats and better skin health. It can also reduce breast pain.

Menopause Support

Menopause causes a variety of symptoms for women, including breast pain, mood swings, bloating, night sweats, and hot flashes. While evening primrose oil doesn't offer the same support as traditional HRT (hormone replacement therapy), it can be beneficial as a holistic treatment.

Some menopausal and postmenopausal women find the supplement beneficial for reducing menopausal hot flashes, and the NHS recommends it as a potential HRT alternative.

Skin Health Benefits

GLA has anti-inflammatory properties, which means it can reduce skin inflammation symptoms caused by conditions like acne and eczema.

Some people use it to treat blackheads, pimples, and general acne - but there's limited research to suggest that evening primrose oil is an effective treatment.

Arthritis Support

Arthritis is a chronic condition that can cause long-term pain and loss of mobility. As the oil is abundant in essential fatty acids, it can potentially reduce inflammation associated with arthritis and ease morning stiffness.

One study found that when combined with non-steroidal therapy, gamma linolenic acid (GLA) and linoleic acid can further reduce inflammation, improving the symptoms of RA (rheumatoid arthritis).

Who Can Benefit From Evening Primrose Oil Supplements?

If you suffer from any of the above conditions, evening primrose oil can be a beneficial supplement - but it's essential to remember that some studies show inconclusive results. However, other people note that supplementing their diet with the oil reduces their symptoms and enhances their overall health.

There's also evidence to suggest that evening primrose oil may benefit bone health and reduce the risks of osteoporosis in menopausal women (PubMed).

Who Should Avoid Evening Primrose Oil?

Evening primrose oil (EPO) is a safe supplement in most cases, but if any of the following apply, you should avoid it or seek medical advice first:

Blood Thinning Medicines: Individuals taking blood thinning medicines have an increased risk of bruising and bleeding when using evening primrose oil.

Bleeding Disorders: Evening primrose oil has anticoagulant properties, which can be dangerous for people with bleeding disorders.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding may be at an increased risk of complications, so it's essential to seek medical advice before using EPO.

Seizure History: If you have epilepsy or have experienced a seizure in the past, please contact your specialist before using supplements.

Medication Interactions: EPO can potentially react with certain medicines, including antidepressants and mood stabilisers.

Surgery: As evening primrose oil has increased bleeding risks, you should stop taking it at least two weeks before surgery.

How to Take Evening Primrose Oil Dietary Supplements

Most people take oral evening primrose oil because it's convenient and available in either capsule or tablet form. While there isn't a standard dosage, most people find that 500mg is enough to prevent side effects and offer health improvements.

Sealions offers a 500mg Evening Primrose Oil Supplement packed with healthy omega-6 fatty acids. Each softgel is easy to digest, and we recommend taking it once a day with food. For just £4.00, you can get a 90-day supply.

Potential Side Effects of Evening Primrose Oil Capsules:

While evening primrose supplements are mostly safe, they can cause some side effects, including:

Nausea

Loose stools

Headaches

Bloating

Gas

Heartburn

Minor skin irritation

Evening Primrose Oil May Also Cause Serious Side Effects:

Bleeding: People with bleeding disorders and individuals using anticoagulants have an increased risk of bleeding.

Seizures: If you have a seizure disorder or are taking antipsychotics, taking evening primrose oil comes with an increased risk of seizures.

Allergic Reactions: While rare, some people may experience an allergic reaction to evening primrose oil, with symptoms including skin rashes, dizziness, problems breathing, and swelling of the throat, tongue, and face.

Final Thoughts

With potential health benefits including an ability to ease menopausal symptoms, prevent skin conditions, and support bone density, many people can benefit from using evening primrose oil capsules.

However, if you have a pre-existing medical condition, it's important to continue with the treatment your doctor recommends and use evening primrose oil for holistic support.

When you buy Evening Primrose Oil Capsules from Sealions, you can benefit from high-quality ingredients and great prices. Please get in touch with us today if you have any questions or need advice.