Evening Primrose Oil

In almost every nutrition and herbal store, evening primrose oil is marketed as a treatment for a wide range of medical illnesses. The major ingredient in primrose oil is omega 6 fatty acid (gamma linolenic acid). The major use of primrose is in the use of disorders where the defect is metabolic or biochemical. Despite its availability for over 2 decades, there is very little scientific data to back up any of the claims made by the vendors of the product.

Primrose oil is also sold under different brand names which include fever plant, night willow herb, onogra vulgaris, sun drop and la belle de nuit.

Uses based on tradition or theory

Primrose oil has been used for many years for numerous conditions and each year different medical conditions are added to the list. The majority of the claims are based more on folk lore rather than any scientific claims.

Because there are many serious medical disorders which are touted to be cured by primrose oil, one should always seek a physician's advice before embarking to use a supplement without any studies showing its medical benefits

The medical disorders for which primrose oil is being used for include

- treatment of alcoholism

- reversal of coronary artery disease

- acne, psoriasis

- Inflammatory bowel disease

- Neuropathies

- Diabetes

- High cholesterol

- Menopause

- Ischemic heart disease

- Kidney stones

- Multiple sclerosis

- Hepatitis

- Prevention of preterm delivery

- Melanoma

- Pain

- Depression

- Collagen vascular disorders

- Renal failure

- Cough

- Weight loss

- Promote wound healing.

It indeed would be a miracle supplement if it could cure all these disorders. More than likely it has the same curative ability as drinking urine.

Dosing

The dose of primrose oil is not based on any science. Whoever sells the products simply writes down the dose on the label. Every brand has a different doses, different ingredients and treats different conditions.

There have been no safety studies conducted on this product and only anecdotal reports are available on its efficacy

Primrose oil can be consumed in doses of 4-8 grs for adults. Doses as high as 8 g have been recommended for some disorders. The duration of therapy remains unknown

In children the dose should not excess more than 3 grs daily.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not strictly regulate herbs and supplements. There is no guarantee of strength, purity or safety of products, and effects may vary. You should always read product labels. If you have a medical condition, or are taking other drugs, herbs, or supplements, you should speak with a qualified healthcare provider before starting a new therapy. Consult a healthcare provider immediately if you experience side effects.