Evening primrose oil (EPO) comes from the seeds of the evening primrose plant. The oil contains the fatty acids linoleic acid (LA) and gamma linolenic acid (GLA). Both LA and GLA belong to the omega 6 family of fatty acids. The Western diet is too high in omega 6 fatty acids, however, there are different types of omega 6 fatty acids, and some are healthier, such as those found in evening primrose oil. Most of the health benefits of evening primrose oil are due to the GLA content. GLA acts as an anti-inflammatory agent, promoting relief from inflammation or swelling in various places in the body.

Supplementing with evening primrose oil can supply anti-inflammatory fatty acids that are missing in many people with eczema. EPO is used mostly to relieve the itchiness causes by certain skin conditions, such as eczema and dermatitis.

Women with PMS may have impaired conversion of linoleic acid to gamma linolenic acid (GLA). Evening primrose oil contains GLA and may reduce PMS symptoms. Evening primrose oil is often recommended to reduce breast pain/tenderness, and it can also help to ease menstrual cramps, and mood swings related to the menstrual cycle.  Also beneficial for menopause and in symptoms of menopause such as hot flushes. Evening primrose oil helps ease rheumatoid arthritis pain and lessens the inflammation of acne and other skin conditions. 

Evening Primrose Oil is best taken with food to prevent stomach upset.
Don’t use omega 6 supplements, including GLA and Evening Primrose Oil, if you have epilepsy or another seizure disorder because there have been reports of these supplements bringing on seizures.