Evening primrose oil: properties, what it is used for, and how to take it

Due to its multiple health benefits, evening primrose oil is widely used as a natural remedy to treat various skin and hair problems, relieve pain, reduce the symptoms of certain diseases, or even help with weight loss.

If you want to discover more about evening primrose oil, keep reading this post because here we tell you everything about its benefits, contraindications, what it is used for and how you can take it to take advantage of its properties to the fullest. Take note!

What is evening primrose oil

This oil comes from an herbaceous plant scientifically called Oenothera Biennis, but better known as evening primrose or primrose. It is native to North America, but in the 17th century it spread to other areas such as Europe mainly to be used in decoration. Later its numerous health properties were discovered and that was when it began to to be used as a home remedy to heal wounds, scars, and other problems.

Evening primrose is a wild medicinal plant that usually grows along paths and roads. Its flowers are yellow color and its miraculous oil so popular, is extracted from the seeds by cold pressing.

Properties of evening primrose oil

Evening primrose oil is characterized by being rich in fatty acids, especially in linoleic acid and gamma-linolenic acid, which are part of the Omega 6 group. These fatty acids are essential for the proper functioning of the body, but as we do not synthesize them, they must be included in the diet through foods such as nuts.

Next, we tell you in more detail all the health benefits that these acids provide, which you can find in evening primrose oil. We recommend you take a look at our article about the properties of tea tree, as it has very similar benefits to this oil.

Benefits of evening primrose oil

• Combats premenstrual syndrome: one of the most popular uses and benefits of evening primrose oil is that it combats the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome. If you are a woman, it can help reduce swelling, pain, and even depression or mood swings associated with premenstrual syndrome.
• Soothing and moisturizing properties: this oil, rich in vitamins E and F, helps to soothe and hydrate the skin, making it a perfect natural treatment for dry skin or certain problems such as atopic dermatitis or eczema.
• Prevents heart diseases: can help to regulate vascular pressure reducing the chances of having a heart attack. It also increases the size of blood vessels, preventing clots and therefore diseases related to them, such as thrombosis. Similarly, reduces bad cholesterol levels.
• Antioxidant properties: it is considered a good natural remedy to combat the signs of premature aging.
• Anti-inflammatory properties: another of its most notable benefits is that evening primrose oil is used to relieve pain. It can also help protect the stomach from irritation caused by some gastrointestinal diseases and fights diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis.
• Helps with weight loss: this oil has an appetite-suppressing effect that can reduce hunger. Likewise, it prevents fat accumulation and promotes its faster elimination. That is why you can include it in your diet, as long as it is also accompanied by a good exercise routine. By the way! Take a look at this post with the best strength training to do at home.

Contraindications

Regarding contraindications or possible side effects on health, evening primrose oil it is not recommended for the following groups of people:

• Pregnant or breastfeeding women.
• People with epilepsy.
• People taking anticoagulant medications or who have coagulation problems.
• People with mental illnesses.

Similarly, if you are going to use this oil regularly, we advise you to consult with your trusted doctor.

What is evening primrose oil used for

For hair

Evening primrose oil is rich in nutrients such as vitamins and minerals, making it a perfect ally to fight against dryness of the scalp, hair loss or the appearance of dandruff. This ability to strengthen the hair makes it a highly demanded ingredient for the manufacture of shampoos and hair products.

For the skin

As we mentioned before, evening primrose oil has properties that help soothe and soften the skin, making it a perfect natural treatment to address dermatological problems. That is why this oil is widely used in cosmetics and beauty for the manufacture of creams and other products that combat acne, dermatitis, spots, redness or other skin problems.

Likewise, you can also apply this oil directly on the skin of your face or body. To do this, spread several drops on the skin and massage the area until it is completely absorbed.

How to take it?

If you want to consume the oil orally, you can do it through capsules that you can easily find in an herbalist, cosmetics store, or pharmacy.

Similarly, you can also prepare a infusion with the branches and leaves of this plant. Although it is not the oil, you can also benefit from some of its properties. To do this, chop the leaves and stems (preferably dry) and add them to a container with boiling water. Let it sit for a while and your infusion will be ready to serve as a home remedy to treat the cold symptoms or others gastrointestinal problems.