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Evening primrose oils yellow flowers open at sunset.
Evening primrose oil is a natural oil extracted from the seeds of the evening primrose plant (Oenothera biennis), a wildflower native to North America that has been traditionally used for its medicinal properties.
Evening primrose oil is particularly valued for its high content of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an essential omega-6 fatty acid that plays a key role in maintaining healthy skin, hormonal balance, and inflammatory responses in the body.
CAS Number: 90028-66-3
EINECS Number: 289-859-2
Synonyms: Evening primrose, Oenotherabiennis, ext., 90028-66-3, Oenothera biennis ext., EVENING PRIMROSE OIL, Oenothopae biennisolei, Evening PriMrose Oil, 10 Percent GLA, Organic evening primrose oil refining, Evening Primrose -10%, Evening Primrose Pure Oil, Evening primrose oil USP/EP/BP, Liquid extract of Primrose (Primula veris)
Evening primrose oil in its seeds contains omega-6 fatty acids.
Evening primrose oil is a golden-yellow oil extracted from the seeds of the Oenothera biennis plant, which is named for its characteristic of blooming in the evening.
Evening primrose oil is a plant native to the Americas.
Evening primrose oil is especially known for its high concentration of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), a rare omega-6 fatty acid that plays a vital role in cellular health, immune system function, and the regulation of inflammation throughout the body.
Evening primrose oils and their physically modified derivatives such as tinctures, concretes, absolutes, essential oils, oleoresins, terpenes, terpene-free fractions, distillates, residues, etc., obtained from Oenothera biennis, Onagraceae.
Evening primrose oil is a plant native to North and South America that also grows throughout Europe and parts of Asia.
It has yellow flowers that open at sunset and close during the day.
Evening primrose oil from evening primrose seeds contains omega-6 fatty acids, including gamma-linolenic acid (GLA).
Evening primrose oil is commonly used to support women’s reproductive and hormonal health.
Evening primrose oil is often taken by women who experience premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms such as breast tenderness, mood swings, bloating, and cramps.
Some research has suggested that the prostaglandins derived from GLA can help modulate hormonal activity and reduce PMS discomfort.
Evening primrose oil is commonly consumed as a dietary supplement, usually in softgel capsules, and is widely promoted for its potential benefits in alleviating symptoms associated with conditions such as eczema, rheumatoid arthritis, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), and menopause.
Evening primrose oill is also used topically to soothe dry or irritated skin due to its anti-inflammatory and moisturizing effects.
Despite its popularity in alternative medicine, the scientific evidence supporting many of its claimed health benefits remains limited or mixed, and further research is needed to confirm its effectiveness in treating specific conditions.
Nonetheless, Evening primrose oil continues to be a popular supplement among individuals seeking natural remedies for hormonal and inflammatory health issues.
Evening primrose oil is a plant-based oil obtained through the cold pressing of the seeds of the evening primrose plant (Oenothera biennis), a flowering plant that blooms in the evening and is native to North and South America but now also grows in Europe and parts of Asia.
This plant has been used for centuries by Indigenous peoples for its healing properties, and the oil derived from its seeds has become widely recognized in modern herbal medicine and natural health circles.
The GLA in evening primrose oil has been studied for its anti-inflammatory effects on joints, particularly in people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
While not a replacement for medication, it may help reduce morning stiffness, joint pain, and swelling when taken as part of a broader treatment plan.
Evening primrose oil is frequently used in the treatment of chronic inflammatory skin conditions, particularly eczema (atopic dermatitis), where it may improve skin moisture, reduce flakiness, and relieve itching.
Some people also apply it topically or take it internally to manage acne, psoriasis, and rosacea, due to its anti-inflammatory and skin-barrier-repairing properties.
There is some evidence that EPO may help improve skin elasticity, hydration, and firmness, making it a popular ingredient in skincare products aimed at anti-aging.
Density: 0.926 g/mL at 25 °C
refractive index: n20/D1.479
Flash point: >110℃
Evening primrose oil is a nutrient-rich, plant-derived oil with a long history of traditional use and a growing reputation as a supportive supplement for hormonal health, skin conditions, and inflammation-related issues.
However, while it offers potential benefits, its effectiveness may vary by individual, and ongoing research is needed to fully validate many of its claimed health effects.
The most notable component of evening primrose oil is gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), a type of omega-6 fatty acid that the body uses to produce prostaglandins—hormone-like substances that help regulate various physiological functions, including inflammation, blood flow, and the reproductive cycle.
While omega-6 fatty acids are present in many foods, GLA is relatively rare, making evening primrose oil a unique and valuable source of this nutrient.
Evening primrose oil is commonly taken as a dietary supplement, often in capsule form, and is promoted for a variety of health benefits.
Evening primrose oil is perhaps best known for its potential to support women’s health, particularly in reducing the severity of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), breast pain, and menopausal symptoms, due to its hormone-modulating effects.
Some women use it as a natural approach to managing hormonal imbalances and irregular menstrual cycles.
In addition to women’s health, evening primrose oil is often used as a complementary remedy for inflammatory skin disorders, especially eczema (atopic dermatitis), where it may help to improve skin moisture, reduce itching, and soothe inflammation.
Some research also suggests it may offer mild benefits for conditions such as acne, rosacea, and psoriasis, though results vary and more scientific evidence is needed.
Beyond the skin, some studies have explored the use of evening primrose oil for supporting joint health, particularly in people with rheumatoid arthritis, where it may reduce stiffness and joint pain when used alongside conventional treatments.
There are also claims that it might support nerve health, particularly in cases of diabetic neuropathy, although the clinical support for these uses is still under investigation.
Evening primrose oil is generally considered safe when used appropriately, though mild side effects such as upset stomach, nausea, or headache can occur.
In rare cases, high doses or interactions with certain medications—such as blood thinners or anti-seizure drugs—may pose risks, so it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before starting supplementation, especially for people with chronic health conditions.
There are indications that the anti-inflammatory and vasodilating effects of GLA may contribute to heart and blood vessel health.
Evening primrose oil may help reduce blood pressure, improve blood flow, and lower cholesterol levels, although more conclusive research is needed in this area.
Uses Of Evening primrose oil:
The therapeutic botanical properties of evening primrose oil (Oenothera biennis) are described as astringent and helpful for skin irritations.
Incorporated into certain preparations at a 10 percent concentration, it appears to improve cases of pruritis and xerosis.
Evening primrose oil improves the skin’s hydration and its ability to develop normal barrier functions.
Evening primrose oil contains a high amount of gamma linoleic acid, which is one of the essential fatty acids vital for maintaining the normal functioning of the epithelial barrier membrane.
Evening primrose oil is commonly used by women to relieve various symptoms of premenstrual syndrome, such as breast tenderness, bloating, irritability, and mood swings, because its high gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) content is believed to help balance hormonal fluctuations that occur during the menstrual cycle and reduce the production of inflammatory compounds that may intensify discomfort.
Many women take evening primrose oil during perimenopause and menopause to manage common symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, mood changes, and vaginal dryness, since GLA can support hormonal regulation and may help reduce inflammation that contributes to these uncomfortable transitions.
One of the most popular uses of evening primrose oil is for treating inflammatory skin disorders like eczema (atopic dermatitis), where the oil’s rich content of essential fatty acids helps restore the skin’s barrier function, reduce transepidermal water loss, and soothe redness, itching, and flaking by moderating the immune response in the skin.
Evening primrose oil is used as a complementary remedy for individuals suffering from rheumatoid arthritis because its anti-inflammatory effects may help reduce joint pain, stiffness, and swelling, especially when used over a prolonged period in combination with other therapies.
Some people with diabetes use evening primrose oil to alleviate the tingling, burning, or numbness associated with diabetic neuropathy, as GLA has been shown in some studies to support nerve function and improve circulation in people with well-controlled blood glucose levels.
Evening primrose oil is also used as a beauty supplement to improve the overall health and appearance of the skin and hair, since the omega-6 fatty acids it provides help maintain skin moisture, elasticity, and smoothness, and may also contribute to stronger, shinier hair and healthier scalp conditions.
Some women take evening primrose oil to ease cyclical breast pain related to the menstrual cycle, as GLA may help regulate the hormonal activity involved in breast tissue sensitivity and reduce inflammation that contributes to soreness or swelling.
Although research is still ongoing, some people use evening primrose oil to support heart and vascular health, since its anti-inflammatory and vasodilating properties may help lower blood pressure, reduce blood clotting, and improve cholesterol levels, potentially decreasing the risk of cardiovascular problems over time.
Evening primrose oil is sometimes used by women who are trying to conceive, as it may help improve the quality and consistency of cervical mucus, which is important for sperm movement and survival, although its use for fertility should be closely timed and monitored to avoid uterine contractions during the second half of the menstrual cycle or pregnancy.
Although more evidence is needed, evening primrose oil is occasionally used as a natural supplement to help manage hormonal imbalances and symptoms in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), such as irregular periods, acne, or hair loss, due to its potential influence on inflammation and hormone production.
Safety Profile Of Evening primrose oil:
One of the most commonly reported side effects of evening primrose oil is mild gastrointestinal discomfort, which can include symptoms such as nausea, bloating, stomach cramps, soft stools, or diarrhea, especially when the supplement is taken in high doses or on an empty stomach.
Some individuals may experience headaches, dizziness, or a lightheaded feeling after taking evening primrose oil, particularly at the beginning of use or when it is consumed in large quantities, although these side effects are generally mild and tend to subside over time.
Evening primrose oil has the potential to interfere with blood clotting, which means it could increase the risk of bleeding or bruising—especially in people who are taking anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications such as warfarin (Coumadin), aspirin, or clopidogrel—so it should be used with caution in those cases or avoided before surgeries.
In rare cases, evening primrose oil may lower the seizure threshold, which means it could theoretically increase the risk of seizures, particularly in people who already have epilepsy or other seizure disorders.
This risk may be even higher if the person is also taking medications known to affect brain function, such as antipsychotic drugs from the phenothiazine class (e.g., chlorpromazine).
