Evening Primrose oil is a rich and effective source of GLA and has shown positive outcomes on a number of disorders such as menstrual problems, breast pains, rheumatoid arthritis and skin problems.
Biochemistry
Evening Primrose oil (EPO) is derived from the seeds of Evening Primrose plant. The oil contains a special fatty acid called Gamma Linolenic Acid (GLA). GLA is one of the Omega 6 fatty acids and is produced in the body from another fatty acid which is found in vegetable oils (Linoleic Acid). GLA is required by the body to produce substances knows as prostaglandins. Prostaglandins affect the immune system, circulation and menstrual cycles. Both lifestyle and psychological factors (such as stress, over consumption of alcohol, unhealthy diets, viruses, etc) can hinder the body's production of GLA.
Modes Of Action
EPO constituents, namely GLA, convert polyunsaturates into prostaglandins. Prostaglandins control and regulate numerous body processes, e.g. the prostaglandin, PGE takes part in regulating the nervous, cardiovascular and reproductive systems and maintaining healthy skin health whilst also having a role in other biological functions.
Supplemental Uses
Blood pressure - research has shown that GLA from Evening Primrose oil noticeably reduces hypertension and may even prevent it from developing.
Blood clotting - studies have shown that Evening Primrose oil can reduce platelets aggregation (blood clotting).
High cholesterol - Evening Primrose oil lowers high serum cholesterol levels.
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) - studies involving MS sufferers found that Evening Primrose oil brought abnormal levels of fatty acids in the brain back to normal within a few months of supplementation.
Breast disease - research shows substantial reduction in benign breast disease.
Premenstrual Tension (PMT) - Evening Primrose oil is very successful in treating symptoms of PMT including abdominal pain, breast tenderness, swollen fingers and ankles, irritability, anxiety and depression.
Rheumatoid arthritis - very good results were shown in patients suffering from rheumatoid arthritis, over 60% of patients withdraw from taking NSAIDS. Patients given Evening Primrose oil and fish oil combinations were found to be more effective.
Skin conditions - positive results have been shown in studying carried out on a topic eczema and dermatitis sufferers.
Precautions / Adverse Effects
Evening Primrose oil can cause headaches, nausea or skin irritation when first taken.
Drug Interactions
Epilepsy sufferers should avoid Evening Primrose oil as the oil may induce certain temporal lobe epilepsy.
Those taking medication for schizophrenia should avoid Evening Primrose oil supplements.
Alpha Linolenic Acid (ALA) containing supplements have an inhibitory effect on the conversion of GLA and Linoleic Acid into prostaglandins.
Product Information:
Presentation:
A soft capsule.
Typically per capsule:
Evening Primrose Oil...........1000mg
providing Linolenic Acid.........716mg
Gamma-Linolenic Acid (GLA)....80mg
Vitamin E..............................10mg
Other Ingredients:
Encapsulated with Glycerin and Gelatin. Free from sugar (sucrose), Gluten, Lactose, Yeast, Artificial Colours, Preservatives and Sweeteners.
