Evening primrose oil is commonly known as a treatment for premenstrual syndrome (PMS) but is actually effective as a treatment for many ailments and disorders. Named by European settlers in North America as the King's Cure-All, this small wildflower has long been known for its medicinal purposes. 

The oil from the seeds of the evening primrose flower is what is used for medicinal purposes. Evening primrose oil contains an important essential fatty acid called gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) which is one of the omega-6 fatty acids that the body cannot produce on its own. GLA helps in the production of prostaglandins (PFE1) which helps to reduce inflammation in the body. There are many health issues that can benefit from GLA in evening primrose oil. Here are a few of the health concerns that evening primrose oil supplements can be effective in treating.

Asthma Because of its ability to reduce inflammation, evening primrose oil may help lower inflammation in the bronchial tubes that cause asthma attacks. People who are on medication for asthma should talk to their doctor first before taking evening primrose oil supplements.

Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Clinical studies have shown that GLA in evening primrose oil may be effective in helping adults and children with attention deficit disorder (ADD) and ADHD. Increasing both the omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in the person's diet can be effective in treating these two disorders. In children it was found that rubbing evening primrose oil into the skin instead of digesting it was more effective. Talk to a doctor first before treating a child with any herbal supplements.

Diabetes Many diabetics experience peripheral neuropathy, a nerve disease with symptoms of tingling, numbness, burning, pain and lack of sensation in the legs or feet. GLA assists with nerve function and may help prevent nerve disease from occurring. The recommended dose is 480 mg/day, taken in small doses throughout the day.

Heart Health Evening primrose oil is beneficial in lowering bad (LDL) cholesterol, lowering blood pressure, preventing blood clots and reducing inflammation in the arteries. This can reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke.

Immune System Taking evening primrose oil may aid in building up the immune system. GLA, along with other essential fatty acids and nutrients, create interferons, proteins in cells that fight against viruses.

Menopausal Hot Flashes Evening primrose oil has shown to be effective in treating hot flashes in menopausal women. 

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) In clinical studies, evening primrose oil has shown to be effective in treating symptoms of PMS in most women. Breast tenderness, depression, irritability, bloating and swelling are all symptoms that appear to improve while taking evening primrose oil. The recommended dose is 3,000 to 4,000 mg/day, taken in small doses throughout the day.

Skin Irritations, Acne and Eczema Studies have found that GLA in evening primrose oil is effective in treating dry, scaly skin, acne, psoriasis and eczema. The recommended dose for eczema is 4,000 to 8,000 mg/day, taken in small amounts throughout the day. 

Side-Effects of Evening Primrose Oil

Side-effects of taking evening primrose oil include headache, diarrhea, nausea, blood clotting, skin rash and immune system suppression. People who are prone to seizures or have a history of epilepsy or schizophrenia should not take evening primrose oil. People on blood thinners should also avoid this herbal remedy. Women who are pregnant should not take evening primrose oil. 

Evening primrose oil is available in tablet and capsule form and can be purchased over-the-counter. Dosage varies depending upon the reason it is being taken. Talk to a doctor or a certified herbalist for dosage requirements and about any interactions it may have with prescription medication. Taking herbal supplements can be safe and effective if taken responsibly.