evening primrose oil

Evening primrose oil is a natural oil extracted from the seeds of the plant *Oenothera biennis*. It is rich in omega-6 essential fatty acids, primarily gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), which is thought to have anti-inflammatory properties. The therapeutic activity of evening primrose oil is attributed to its essential fatty acids acting directly on immune cells and indirectly by influencing eicosanoid synthesis, including prostaglandins such as prostaglandin E1. These actions are believed to play a role in modulating inflammatory and immunologic processes[1][5][6][8]. Evening primrose oil has been used as a dietary supplement for conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, diabetic neuropathy, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), menopausal symptoms, eczema, mastalgia (breast pain), and other inflammatory disorders; however, scientific evidence supporting these uses varies and remains limited for many indications[2][4][5]. The main active ingredient is gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). Evening primrose oil is generally well tolerated but may interact with certain medications or increase bleeding risk[1][2].

Brand names

EpogamEfamol

Other names

Oenothera bienniscommon evening primrose