What are the benefits? |
Evening Primrose Oil is a good source of linoleic acid and is one of nature’s richest sources of GLA (gamma-linolenic acid). GLA is vital for the formation of prostaglandins - hormone-like substances which help to maintain premenstrual health and play an important regulatory role in many other health areas. GLA can be manufactured in the body from linoleic acid, but linoleic acid must be taken in through the diet because our bodies cannot manufacture it themselves. Evening Primrose Oil contains both GLA and linoleic acid, so it helps maintain GLA levels both directly and indirectly. Linoleic acid also helps to maintain skin structure and retain water in the skin tissue. Evening Primrose Oil may help maintain brain function and healthy blood pressure. |
What are the natural food sources? |
GLA can be found in human breast milk, oats and barley. It is also found in black current seed oil and starflower oil (also known as borage oil) supplements. |
How much do you need? |
There is no recommended daily allowance for Evening Primrose Oil. |
Are you likely to be deficient? |
Women with premenstrual syndrome, diabetes and eczema may have a metabolic block that interferes with the body’s ability to make GLA. Evening Primrose Oil may be beneficial for individuals who cannot convert linoleic acid into gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), including those with zinc deficiency, excessive alcohol consumption, cardiovascular disorders, high cholesterol, viral infections and cancer. |
Are you taking too much? |
Very high intakes of Evening Primrose Oil could cause mild gastro-intestinal effects, indigestion, nausea, and softening of stools. Evening Primrose Oil is non-toxic. |
Are there any interactions? |
Evening Primrose Oil is not advised during pregnancy and should not be given to schizophrenic patients or those taking epileptogenic drugs such as phenothiazines. |
