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Evening Primrose Oil

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At a glance

Evening Primrose Oil is a herbal supplement used for premenstrual syndrome, breast disease, eczema, psoriasis, arthritis, and skin health.

Description

Evening Primrose is a plant native to North America. It is obtained from the seeds of plant. It has been used medicinally in Europe since the 16th century. Clinical studies have focused on its use in treating problems associated with essential fatty acid (EFA) deficiency including premenstrual syndrome, atopic eczema, inflammation and diabetic peripheral neuropathy.

Evening Primrose Oil (EPO) is relatively high in essential fatty acids (EFAs), particularly gamma-linolenic acid (GLA, 7-10%).

Indications
  • Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS): Used for treatment of PMS symptoms.
  • Breast Disease and Cyclical Mastalgia: Used for breast tenderness and pain.
  • Atopic and Allergic Dermatitis: Used for skin allergies.
  • Psoriasis: Used for psoriasis treatment.
  • Rheumatoid Arthritis: Used for arthritis treatment.
  • Atopic Eczema: Used for eczema treatment.
Therapeutic class

Herbal and Nutraceuticals

Pharmacological class

Essential Fatty Acid Supplement

Pharmacology

Evening Primrose Oil (EPO) is relatively high in essential fatty acids (EFAs), particularly gamma-linolenic acid (GLA, 7-10%). By supplying GLA, it bypasses the rate-limiting step in the metabolism of LA. After ingestion of EPO, GLA is rapidly absorbed and then converts directly to DGLA and other prostaglandin precursors.

Mechanism of action

Evening Primrose Oil provides gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) which helps in prostaglandin precursor formation and reduces inflammation.

Dosage

Adult Dose:

  • Atopic and Allergic Dermatitis: 1 capsule 2 times daily.
  • Breast Disease and Mastalgia: 1 capsule 2/3 times daily (with or after meal).
  • Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS): 1 Capsule 2 times daily (morning and night, with or after meal).
  • Rheumatoid Arthritis: 1 Capsule daily or as directed by physician.

Child Dose (Atopic Dermatitis): 1 capsule ½-1 time daily.

Administration

Take this medicine in the dose and duration as advised by your doctor. It is better to take it with or after food.

Missed dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose.

Side effects

Side Effects: Side effects are rare at recommended dosages; overdose may cause loose stool and abdominal pain.

Precautions & warnings

Precautions: Keep out of reach of children; keep away from direct sunlight.

Contraindications

Contraindications: Previously not recommended for schizophrenia patients; recent analysis did not indicate clear therapeutic or adverse effect.

Drug interactions

Drug Interactions: No known interactions.

Food interactions

Food Interactions: May be taken with or after food.

Use in pregnancy

Use in Pregnancy: According to WHO, pregnant women should get 5% of daily caloric intake from EFAs; consult doctor.

Pregnancy Category: N/A — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.

Use in lactation

Use in Lactation: Linolenic acid, GLA and DGLA are important components of human breast milk; may be taken while nursing (with doctor's advice).

Pediatric use

Pediatric Use: Child dose for atopic dermatitis: 1 capsule ½-1 time daily.

Geriatric use

Geriatric Use: No specific dosage adjustment is necessary for elderly patients.

Renal / hepatic impairment

Renal Impairment: Safe for patients with kidney disease.

Hepatic Impairment: Safe for patients with liver disease.

Overdose effects

Overdose: Overdose may cause loose stool and abdominal pain; symptomatic treatment.

Storage conditions

Storage: Store below 25 degree C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.

Chemical structure

Evening Primrose Oil

Common questions

Q1: What is Evening Primrose Oil used for?
It is used for PMS, breast disease, eczema, psoriasis, arthritis, and skin health.
Q2: What is the dosage?
Adults: 1 capsule 2-3 times daily; Children: 1 capsule ½-1 time daily.
Q3: What are the side effects?
Rare at recommended dosages; overdose may cause loose stool and abdominal pain.
Q4: Can it be taken while breastfeeding?
Yes, linolenic acid is an important component of breast milk; take with doctor's advice.
⚠️ This information is for educational purposes only — not a substitute for medical advice. Consult a registered physician before taking any medicine.