Content
Evening primrose oil, also known as evening primrose oil, is a supplement that can bring benefits to the skin, heart and gastrointestinal system due to its high content of gamma linoleic acid. To enhance its effects, it is recommended that evening primrose oil is consumed together with small doses of vitamin E, improving its absorption.
This oil is extracted from the seeds of the plant Oenothera biennis and can be found in health food stores in the form of capsules or oil, and should be consumed according to the guidance of the doctor or herbalist.
What is it for
Evening primrose oil is rich in gamma linoleic acid, also called omega-6, and therefore has anti-inflammatory and immune-stimulating properties, and can be indicated in several situations, such as:
- Assist in the treatment of arterial hypertension;
- Decrease circulating cholesterol levels;
- Prevent the occurrence of thrombosis;
- Prevent cardiovascular diseases;
- Assist in the treatment of skin problems such as acne, eczema, psoriasis and dermatitis;
- Prevent hair loss;
- Relieve symptoms of Lupus;
- Assist in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.
In addition, evening primrose oil is widely used by women with the aim of relieving symptoms of PMS and menopause, such as colic, breast pain and irritability, for example.
How to use
The use of evening primrose oil should be consumed as directed by the doctor and can be taken with water or juice after meals. The amount and time of use of this oil is determined by the doctor according to the purpose of use, however in the case of being used in order to reduce the symptoms of PMS, for example, it may be recommended to take 1 g of evening primrose for 60 days and from the 61st day, take only 500 mg per day for 10 days before menstruation, for example.
Side effects and contraindications
Usually the consumption of evening primrose oil does not cause side effects, but some people may report headache, abdominal pain, vomiting or diarrhea, for example. This oil is contraindicated in people who are allergic to plants of the onagraceous family, such as evening primrose, or to gamma-linolenic acid.
In addition, it is important to pay attention to the use of evening primrose oil in conjunction with medications for treating mental illnesses, such as chloropromazine, thioridazine, trifluoperazine and fluphenazine, for example, because there may be an increased risk of seizures.
Created by: Tua Saúde Editorial Team