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Evening Primrose Oil

Description

The use of evening primrose oil has been well researched for its benefits. Evening Primrose Oil is a rich source of the popular gamma linolenic acid and is a very popular omega-6 fatty acid.

Signs and Symptoms for Nutrient Applications

- Chronic inflammatory conditions - Dermatitis - Eczema - Rheumatoid arthritis - PMS - Menstrual cramps - Fibrocystic breast disease - Immune effects - Cardiovascular conditions - Poor wound healing - Sparse hair growth - Dry eyes (Sjogren’s Disease)

Clinical Applications/Research

Evening Primrose Oil (EPO)

Essential fatty acids (EFA’s) are important in the diet because EFA’s are a main component of phospholipids, the main constituent of cell membranes. Phospholipids help determine the fluidity and integrity of the cell membranes, and the type of fat ingested will play a major role in determining the health of the cell membranes. Saturated fats (i.e. butter or lard), trans-fatty acids (i.e. margarine or deep fried foods), or excess arachidonic acid (i.e. processed meats) all decrease cell membrane fluidity and function, while “good” essential fatty acids (i.e. fish oils, black currant seed oil or EPO) enhance cell membrane fluidity and function. Essential fatty acids also play an important role in inflammation, hormone synthesis, nerve transmission and many other bodily functions. EPO is an omega-6 fatty acid, one of the two main types of essential fatty acids. EPO is one of the few oils containing gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) (makes prostaglandins of the one series). These prostaglandins are hormone-like substances that are antiinflammatory and counteract the pain-producing, inflammatory, vasoconstrictive properties of the two series. The body normally makes its GLA from linoleic acid, an omega-6 fatty acid found in many foods. However, in certain circumstances the body is unable to convert linoleic acid to GLA in an efficient manner. These include diabetes, high alcohol ingestion, advanced age, eczema, fibrocytic breast disease, excessive saturated fat intake, elevated cholesterol levels, deficiencies of vitamin B6, magnesium, calcium, zinc or biotin. In some of these cases, GLA supplementation may be beneficial.

Cardiovascular Effects

In two Canadian studies, both the main constituent in evening primrose oil (EPO), gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) and the plant oil (EPO) itself, significantly reduced blood pressure (Heinerman J. p. 134).

PMS

Thirty women with severe PMS took 3 grams of a gamma-linolenic acid-containing oil from the 15th cycle day to menses during 2 cycles, and placebo for 2 cycles. Symptoms, especially depression, were alleviated. Up to 6 capsules a day gave therapeutic benefits (ibid, p. 134). Evening primrose oil alleviates hot flashes and some of the symptoms of menopause.

Dermatitis

Supplementation of evening primrose oil (10% gamma linolenic acid) was tested on dermatitis, and antiinflammatory substances were increased. The abnormal fatty acid pattern seen in dermatitis is believed to be involved in the pathogenesis of the disease, “and should therefore be the target for future therapeutic approaches with fatty acid supplements” (Lipids 1991;26:557-60). In another study of 12 volunteers, gamma linolenic acid-enriched oil not only inhibited the inflammatory substance LTB4, but the larger dose (1.5g) had a greater inhibition than the .5 gram dose (AJCN 1992;55:39-45).

Rheumatoid Arthrits

The anti-inflammatory effects of EPO have been studied in people suffering with rheumatoid arthritis. Some studies showed significant benefits with EPO supplementation.

Disclaimer: The statements above have not been evaluated by the FDA. The nutritional suggestions and research provided are for informational purposes only and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease and should not be used as a substitute for sound medical advice. Please see your health care professional in all matters pertaining to your physical health.

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