Evening primrose oil is obtained from the seeds of flowering plant of Oenothera biennis L. An omega 6 fatty acid named gamma-linoleic acid is present in primrose oil that has both anti-inflammatory and analgesic (pain relieving) properties. It has been used for centuries by Native Americans for its many health benefits.
Evening primrose oil may play important role in these functions
1.Skin health
Oral supplements of EPO help to obtain smooth and nourished looking skin and improve the elasticity, firmness and moisture of skin. It also helps to reduce acne by reducing skin inflammation and the number of skin cells that cause lesions.
Researchers believe taking GLA-rich EPO helps keep skin healthy overall.
2.PMS
EPO may be effective in treating premenstrual syndrome such as depression, irritability and bloating. Researchers believe some women experience PMS because they’re sensitive to normal prolactin levels in the body. GLA converts to a substance in the body (prostaglandin E1) thought to help prevent prolactin from triggering PMS.
3.Heart health
EPO is anti-inflammatory and it also reduces cholesterol. These two effect may be attributed to its effects on heart. It reduces the risks of heart diseases and improves heart health.
4.Immunity
EPO contains 2–15% gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) and 70% linolenic acid (LA, which your body makes into GLA), which are types of polyunsaturated omega-6 essential fatty acids. GLA is important for maintaining a joint’s cell structure and function. Your body makes it into hormone-like substances called prostaglandins, which regulate your immune system.
5.Inflammation
EPO is rich in polyunsaturated omega-6 fatty acids that can help control pain and inflammation. Evidence for the effectiveness of EPO in reducing joint pain in rheumatoid arthritis isn’t conclusive, but there’s some evidence that it can improve morning stiffness. It doesn’t seem to alter long-term disease activity, so you should take it alongside your conventional therapy.
6.cholesterol reduction
Some research shows that taking evening primrose oil can decreases total cholesterol and blood fats called triglycerides while increasing good (HDL) cholesterol.
