Evening Primrose

Other Name(s):

Oenothera biennis

Evening Primrose (Oenothera biennis) is native to North America but has naturalised in many European countries too. It has beautiful yellow flowers that open at night. It can thrive in poor soils, with minimal watering but loves full sun.

Is Evening Primrose Faithful to Nature?

Depends.

Evening Primrose Oil is a natural ingredient with a rich history of traditional use and a wide range of benefits and modes of application. It is however a powerful ingredient and should only ever be used after consulting your trusted healthcare practitioner.

Benefits: Why is Evening Primrose used?

Skin Healing Properties

Evening Primrose Oil may help alleviate the symptoms of eczema and psoriasis.

Combats Acne

Evening Primrose Oil may help to alleviate the painful symptoms of acne.

High in GLA

Evening Primrose Oil contains high levels of Gamma-Linoleic Acid (GLA).

Women's Helper

Evening Primrose is used traditionally to alleviate symptoms of PMS such as cramping, bloating, breast tenderness, and hot flashes.

Learn more about Evening Primrose:

On the Shelf: Which Products Use Evening Primrose?

Evening Primrose Oil is found as a single ingredient oil product but is also sold in capsule form and in skincare products like facial masks, serums and moisturisers.

Production: How is Evening Primrose Made?

Evening Primrose Oil is made by pressing the seeds of the plant.

Interesting Fact: Evening Primrose

Evening Primrose Oil contains primarily about 60-85% linoleic acid, 5-12% oleic acid, and 4-10% palmitic acid.

The GLA content of Evening Primrose Oil is thought to be responsible for its efficacy in alleviating the symptoms of PMS. Sensitivity to a hormone called prolactin during the premenstrual cycle are associated with more severe PMS. The GLA in Evening Primrose Oil supports the body’s natural production of hormone-like substance called prostaglandin E1 which reduces the effects of prolactin and may reduce the breast tenderness, depressed mood, bloating, and fluid retention.