Evening primrose oil composition

Primrose is a small perennial plant, many species of which bloom in early spring. It is also called evening primrose, night violet or primrose. North America is considered its homeland, but it is now widespread in Europe.

There are many shades of this flower, so it is often used to decorate the landscape. But this plant is distinguished not only by its beauty. Primrose oil is obtained from it, which contains many health benefits. It is actively used in various fields - cooking, cosmetology and medicine.

Chemical composition

Primrose oil is obtained from ripe evening primrose seeds by cold pressing. This method allows you to preserve a maximum of vitamins without adding chemical compounds. Numerous studies have found that it is especially rich in the following substances:

1. fatty acids – linoleic, oleic, stearic, eicosenoic;
2. large amounts of vitamins E and C;
3. minerals - sodium, calcium, copper, potassium, iron, zinc;
4. resins;
5. polysaccharides;
6. flavonoids;
7. sitosterol;
8. tannins.

This product is used for indoor and outdoor use. It is unique in that the beneficial components enhance each other’s effects, providing a pronounced beneficial effect.

Particularly valuable compounds are fatty acids. They are not synthesized in the human body. Their deficiency negatively affects the condition of the skin and leads to dermatological diseases.

Beneficial features

Thanks to its unique set of components, primrose oil has a wide range of effects. Among the beneficial effects are the following:

1. immunostimulating;
2. antimicrobial;
3. anti-inflammatory;
4. athrombatic;
5. restorative.

The benefits brought by evening primrose or evening primrose oil are used to normalize the functioning of the main body systems and combat many ailments:

1. Normalizes blood pressure, is an excellent prevention of heart disease;
2. Unsaturated fatty acids prevent blood clots. With regular use of this product, the blood is cleared of “bad” cholesterol;
3. Relieves joint inflammation and swelling, effective in the treatment of arthritis;
4. The fatty acids contained in the product help get rid of rosacea, a skin disease that manifests itself in the form of rosacea and purulent inflammation;
5. Antioxidant properties prevent premature aging, protect cells from the negative effects of free radicals;
6. It is used for hormonal disorders, because it helps improve hormonal levels;
7. It has a positive effect on the condition of hair and nails, nourishes and tightens the skin. Helps get rid of wrinkles and flaking. Strengthens hair follicles and prevents hair loss;
8. Effective for skin diseases. Used in the treatment of psoriasis, eczema, dermatitis. Promotes rapid scarring of wounds and ulcers;
9. Destroys pathogenic microorganisms, strengthens the immune system, stimulates the production of antibodies, which leads to rapid recovery from colds and viral diseases;
10. Reduces irritability, normalizes sleep. Used as an aid in the treatment of nervous disorders;
11. Cleanses the body of toxic elements and heavy metals.

Night violet extract is found in many dietary supplements. They have the same indications for use. The difference lies in the presence of additional components in the composition of the drugs.

Among popular analogues, the following products are in particular demand:

The appropriate drug is chosen depending on the presence of health problems and the recommendations of the attending physician.

Methods of application

Evening primrose oil brings many benefits and little harm. It is used in cosmetology, folk and traditional medicine. It is especially valued for its ability to positively influence women's health. It is recommended to take it to prevent the appearance of oncological tumors, in particular breast cancer.

To help with weight loss, purchase flower oil in capsule form. It is sold in most pharmacies. In accordance with the instructions, you need to take 2 capsules three times a day during meals. It is prohibited to exceed the specified amount, otherwise side effects may occur.

Oil in its pure form is added to salads, soups and other dishes. It is enough for an adult to consume 6-8 g per day. This amount is optimal for both treatment and prevention of diseases. For children over 3 years of age, the dosage should be halved.

During pregnancy

Use of medicated oil during pregnancy is permitted only with the consent of your doctor. When strictly following the prescribed dosages, it helps in solving the following problems:

1. Regulation of hormonal levels;
2. Prevention of skin stretch marks;
3. Reducing the risk of placental abruption;
4. Increased progesterone levels.

Scientists have found that the valuable substances in this product have a positive effect on the formation of the fetus and contribute to the proper development of its brain.

To prepare for childbirth

Primrose oil stimulates blood circulation, which reduces the pain of contractions. It softens the cervix before childbirth and increases tissue elasticity, which reduces the risk of rupture.

Due to the high content of fatty acids, the product increases the synthesis of prostaglandins - hormone-like compounds that are involved in uterine contractions and some other physiological processes. This action leads to a decrease in the first stage of labor.

Usually the drug is taken according to the following regimen:

The calculation presented in the table is approximate. In each case, consultation with a specialist is necessary about the advisability of using the indicated dosages.

Other gynecological problems

Gynecologists speak positively about the effect of primrose oil in the treatment of diseases of the genital organs. It is taken in pure form or in capsule form for internal use.

The drug relieves inflammation and pain, normalizes the menstrual cycle, and solves problems of the genitourinary system.

This remedy is indicated for the treatment of diseases such as:

1. endometriosis of the uterus;
2. cystic fibrosis;
3. infertility;
4. uterine fibroids.

It relieves symptoms during menopause in women.

In cosmetology

The oil has proven itself to be an excellent cosmetic product. Women use it to improve the condition of their hair and facial care. It is added to store-bought shampoos, creams and lotions or used to prepare homemade nourishing masks.

1. moisturizing the skin;
2. preventing the appearance of signs of aging;
3. relieving inflammation;
4. moisturizing and adding shine to hair.

Masks for strengthening hair nourish the hair follicles, saturate the curls with moisture and essential substances. The product is often used to strengthen nails. It prevents their fragility, delamination, and moisturizes the cuticle.

Contraindications and possible harm

In some cases, using evening primrose oil can be harmful. It should not be used by people suffering from the following ailments:

1. Individual intolerance to components;
2. Impaired functioning of the cardiovascular system;
3. Schizophrenia.

In case of an overdose of the drug when taken orally, side effects occur:

1. nausea;
2. indigestion;
3. headache;
4. skin rash;
5. In patients with epilepsy, the frequency of seizures may increase.

Primrose oil is sometimes allowed to be used during pregnancy and lactation, but this issue should be discussed with your doctor. You cannot self-medicate, since the harmful effects of primrose affect the hormonal state of a woman.

In any case, it is necessary to strictly follow the dosage and method of application.

Evening primrose oil is an effective natural remedy, endowed with a unique set of components. Its rich chemical composition allows it to be used for the treatment and prevention of many ailments.

Girls should especially pay attention to it - the product helps solve problems with women's health and preserve beauty. To avoid negative consequences, it is necessary to strictly follow the dosages indicated in the instructions and the instructions of the attending physician.

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The benefits and harms of evening primrose oil are known in traditional medicine and cosmetology. Depending on the method of administration, you can choose the most suitable form of product release - capsules or liquid.

Description and benefits of evening primrose

Evening primrose has several names - evening primrose, evening primrose. It is an ornamental flowering plant characterized by greenish-yellow tubular flowers and dark green leaves. In addition to its decorative properties, evening primrose is famous for its beneficial properties. Primrose plant oil, the benefits of which have been known for a long time, is used for medicinal purposes. It is obtained from the seeds of the plant using cold pressing or extraction methods.

Composition and calorie content of primrose oil

Primrose oil extract has medicinal properties and is widely used in medicine and cosmetology thanks to the rich chemical composition shown in the table below.

The table shows the acids that make up primrose oil:

In addition to the listed components, the product contains essential oils, carbohydrates, vitamins C, E, microelements (sodium, iron, zinc, calcium).

Since the product contains mainly fats, its calorie content per 100 g is high - 900 kcal (or 3767 kJ).

Benefits of primrose oil for women and men

Consuming evening primrose oil has benefits for both women and men. Regardless of age, it helps fight various ailments and maintain the body in a healthy state, for example:

1. stabilize blood pressure;
2. balance glucose and cholesterol levels;
3. improve vision;
4. prevent thrombosis;
5. reduce the harm caused to the body by medications taken;
6. reduce the breakdown of liver cells when drinking alcohol;
7. reduce joint pain due to osteoporosis.

Many women often face certain feminine problems. Taking oil helps solve most of them - relieve pain during menstruation, symptoms of menopause.

Regular intake of primrose oil extract will be a salvation for the symptoms of prostatitis in men and will reduce the risk of prostate diseases.

How to use primrose oil for medicinal purposes

The rich composition of the product determines its beneficial properties in the treatment of various diseases.

During pregnancy

The use of evening primrose oil during pregnancy has a positive effect on the development of the baby’s brain and nervous system, and allows the mother to avoid severe ruptures of the perineum during childbirth.

Despite all the benefits, the product is highly not recommended for use in the first trimester of pregnancy. At the beginning of the second trimester, it is administered in small dosages and taken 500-1000 mg daily. Starting from the 34th week of pregnancy, it is recommended to increase the dose to 1500-2000 mg.

Dosages should not be exceeded, otherwise the oil may harm mother and baby. You can start taking it only after consulting a gynecologist.

Before birth

Gynecologists recommend taking it internally and externally. In the first case, the beneficial properties of evening primrose oil in capsules smooth out the muscles and form their elasticity. From 34 weeks of pregnancy you need to take 1 capsule, from 36 - 2 pieces, from 38 weeks until birth - 3 pieces. daily.

When massaging the perineum with primrose oil extract, the skin acquires elasticity, firmness, and becomes prepared for high labor stress.

During menopause

The use of evening primrose oil extract significantly alleviates the symptoms that occur in women during menopause: hot flashes, mood swings and irritability, problems associated with bloating, fatigue. To do this, it is enough to take one capsule of the drug with each meal (no more than 6 times a day).

During menopause, you need to undergo treatment in courses, each of which lasts from 20 to 30 days. It is advisable to take 2-3 courses per year.

For endometriosis

In the fight against endometriosis, it is necessary to take a monthly course of medications based on evening primrose. In specific cases, it can be extended as prescribed by a doctor. An oil intake regimen is also developed individually. Usually 2-3 capsules are prescribed daily with meals.

For fibroids

Products based on evening primrose oil effectively stop the growth of fibroids and, due to their beneficial properties, can prevent its formation. The daily dosage of oil is 500 mg. The exact dosage regimen should be discussed with your gynecologist.

With an ovarian cyst

Primrose oil extract can be included in the general vitamin complex prescribed by the gynecologist in the treatment of cysts. Its benefits are determined by the presence of gamma-linoleic acid, which restores hormonal levels, Omega-3 and vitamin E, which have an anti-inflammatory effect.

The maximum daily dose of oil extract is 600 mg. The duration of one course of treatment does not exceed 30 days.

For neuropathy in diabetes mellitus

The benefits and harms of evening primrose oil in the treatment of neuropathy in diabetics have not yet been fully studied, despite the fact that it can alleviate many symptoms of the disease (weakness, tingling and numbness of the limbs, etc.). The result is achieved only after a long course. Its duration can be a year. The first effect is noticeable after six months of continuous treatment. The maximum daily dosage of the drug for diabetes is 480 mg, taken with meals.

The oil is especially harmful to people taking blood thinners; bruises and bleeding may occur.

For sclerosis and memory impairment

Evening primrose oil exhibits its beneficial properties in the treatment of brain disorders: it helps improve memory, coordination of movements, and supports intelligence. Therefore, evening primrose is effectively used in the treatment of Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, and sclerosis diseases.

When consuming primrose oil, essential medications continue to be taken as recommended by your doctor. The course of treatment is 1 month. Over the course of a year, the patient must undergo several such courses; their exact number and dosage are prescribed by the doctor on an individual basis.

The use of evening primrose oil in cosmetology

Primrose oil has found wide application in cosmetology. It is applied externally in a mixture with other oils. Primrose is particularly effective and beneficial as a component of cosmetic products for facial skin and hair care.

For facial skin

The beneficial properties of evening primrose oil in facial skin care are determined by the content of linoleic acid. This component restores and softens dry skin, smoothes wrinkles, nourishes and moisturizes the skin. Below are several recipes for face masks.

Recipe 1. The benefits of primrose in caring for dry skin

You need to mix the oils:

1. evening primrose – 1 tsp;
2. shea – 1 tsp;
3. jojoba – 2 tsp;
4. avocado – 1 tsp.

Add 2 drops of geranium, lavender and chamomile oils to the composition. The beneficial mixture is applied daily as a day and night cream. In a short time, the appearance of the skin will improve.

Recipe 2. Useful properties of evening primrose in the fight against pigmentation and freckles

To prepare the composition you will need to mix the following oils:

1. primrose – 2 tsp;
2. cocoa – 1 tsp;
3. safflower – 5 drops;
4. lemon – 2 drops;
5. rosewood – 2 drops;
6. petitgrain – 2 drops.

The mixture is applied only to areas of pigmentation.

For hair

Evening primrose oil has particular benefits for hair due to the tocopheron it contains. The substance strengthens and nourishes hair follicles, so it is often used in the fight against hair loss. Also, masks and applications based on it will help improve the appearance of your hair. Below are recipes for masks in which the beneficial properties of evening primrose are most effective.

Recipe 1. Benefits of evening primrose for hair loss

To combat this problem you need to:

1. prepare a mask - mix and heat primrose oil (5 ml), macadamia (15 ml), rosemary (3 drops), ylang-ylang (5 drops);
2. Rub the beneficial composition into the scalp using massage circular movements and leave for half an hour;
3. wash off the mask with shampoo.

Recipe 2. Useful properties of evening primrose in the fight against dandruff

In this case, the mask is prepared and used according to the following scheme:

1. mix evening primrose and jojoba oils (7 ml each), add 5 drops of tea tree oil;
2. The composition is applied with massaging movements for 5 minutes;
3. The procedure is carried out in the evening, the mask is left overnight, and washed off with shampoo in the morning.

What preparations contain primrose oil?

In pharmacies you can buy drugs, one of the active ingredients of which is primrose oil. To treat female diseases, gynecologists often prescribe various dietary supplements, such as Gynocomfort or Femicaps. For problems with the cardiovascular system, it is recommended to take Solgar. In addition to the above on pharmacy shelves, there are many other medications, supplements and cosmetics based on evening primrose oil extract.

Harmful effects of evening primrose oil and contraindications

The product can cause harm only in case of individual intolerance. There are special groups of people for whom the use of oil is undesirable, these include patients with schizophrenia, epilepsy, and systemic blood diseases.

Patients with psoriasis should be especially careful when using this product. Use it only after consultation with your doctor. If the dosage is not followed, an allergic reaction may occur.

Conclusion

The benefits and harms of evening primrose oil in various fields of medicine and cosmetology have long been proven. Its use in the treatment of a specific disease should be discussed with your doctor. This is the only way to get the maximum benefit for the body without harming it.

Many women, tired of frequent ailments, PMS and skin problems, look for answers online and quickly find evening primrose oil. Reviews from gynecologists, the benefits and harms of this dietary supplement, instructions for use, analogues and where to buy. You will find all this below, based on worthy sources. As usual, we have dealt with the issue thoroughly and soberly.

1. If there are significant problems in women's health, we ask you not to self-medicate. Moreover, the remedy under discussion is well known in Russia. You can always ask your doctor about it.

Practical recommendations begin with point No. 3.

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Curious facts of history

To be fair, we note that in the United States in the 1990s, the drug caused severe disappointment in the scientific community. This is because they tried to use the seed extract to fight cancer. Unsuccessful experiments severely compromised other ideas about the benefits of raw materials.

Nowadays, American naturopaths are trying to re-systematize the data on evening primrose oil. Reviews from gynecologists in Russia are also very numerous. Of course, capsules will not replace official medications, but doctors are ready to try them as an assistant for some conditions.

When and to what extent this is true is best decided after careful study of the active substances.

Oil composition

Indicators vary depending on the type of seed.

These are the fatty acids found in evening primrose oil, in ascending order:

1. Alpha linolenic acid (Alpha Linolenic) - up to 0.4%
2. Stearic acid (Stearic) - up to 1.7%
3. Palmitic acid (Palmitic) - up to 6.7%
4. Oleic acid (Oleic) - up to 7.8%
5. Gamma Linolenic Acid (GLA) – 9–10.6%
6. Linoleic acid (Linoleic, LA) - 74–75%

Up to 98% of the mass is fatty acids. The remainder is represented by sterols and tocopherols.

Both of them are involved in a variety of reactions, influence the production of prostaglandins and are present in the membranes of neurons, and are also used by the body to synthesize myelin. This is the sheath of the nerve fibers.

Normally, the human body can convert LA into GLA using a special enzyme (D6D). However, factors such as suboptimal diet and age can interfere with this process and cause GLA deficiency. Taking evening primrose oil will help your body get the missing amounts of GLA directly. And everything would be perfect if it weren’t for the proximity of acids in the capsules.

In a standard diet, where there is a lot of sunflower and corn oil, it is automatically easy to get excess LA. It is this acid that is found in high concentrations in popular cooking oils.

Therefore, LA leads a dangerous imbalance in omega-6 in the diet of contemporaries - with a simultaneous lack of two main omega-3s. It is easy to understand from the composition of primrose oil: with a dietary supplement, a person will receive a lot of potentially dangerous LA. As much as 75% - together with gamma-linolenic no more than 11%.

It turns out that it is much more logical to look for a source of GLA with a higher content. Since this acid is the most healing compound in the oil in question. What opinions did we find among doctors? In naturopathic research and blogs. Below are all the most important things.

How to take for different diseases

There are no strict instructions for use for evening primrose oil. There are dosages from manufacturers, as well as observations from medical practitioners.

According to reviews from gynecologists, dermatologists and naturopaths, the drug has some effect in the following situations. Note! Doses, frequency and duration of the course are given based only on individual studies.

In dermatology and cosmetology

Prevention of age-related and inflammatory skin changes.

The additive helps the skin maintain elasticity and firmness. Drink 1,500 mg of the substance per day, dividing the dose into 3 times. Course duration is up to 12 weeks.

In the complex treatment of acne (acne).

GLA soothes inflammation and helps the skin retain moisture. Dermatologists speak positively about this regimen: 2,700 mg of oil 3 times a day for 8 weeks.

For eczema and dermatitis of various natures.

When it comes to oral administration, doctors in the US and UK strongly dispute the effectiveness of primrose seed extract for treating eczema.

1. However, for local treatment, this fat is diluted with base oil in a ratio of 1:4. Twice a day, 1 ml of the resulting mixture is applied to the skin. The course of treatment is up to four months.
2. A similar scheme is appropriate in cosmetology - for nourishing and moisturizing facial skin with the first signs of age-related changes. Most effective for fine wrinkled type of aging, long lasting.

Application in gynecology

For chest pain associated with menstruation.

Daily for 6 months - from 1,000 to 3,000 mg of the supplement.

Note that since 2002, official UK medicine does not believe that the supplement is effective for periodic chest pain, and does not recommend its use. Another point of view is that dietary supplements only help with short-term and mild pain.

Relief of premenstrual syndrome (PMS).

In particular, taking dietary supplements can relieve symptoms such as apathy, irritability and flatulence. Use from 3,000 to 6,000 mg of oil, divided into 2-4 doses.

During menopause to correct hot flashes.

Capsules of 500 mg are used 2 times a day for six weeks.

Sometimes you can hear that primrose extract helps speed up the onset of menstruation. Official medicine does not confirm the message. Perhaps in some cases the substance gives a similar effect.

Prevention of osteoporosis after menopause.

Used in combination with fish oil and calcium for 6-8 weeks. 500 mg twice a day + one teaspoon of fish oil with vitamin D + 600 mg calcium.

Beneficial properties during pregnancy

Naturopaths have long ago determined how to take the remedy:

1. Only before pregnancy for conception;
2. Not earlier than from 38 weeks of gestation.

For conception, the scheme is simple. 1,500 mg of the substance 3 times a day. This helps thin the cervical mucus and allow sperm to enter the uterus. If this dose does not work, it is recommended to double it.

Before childbirth: timing, doses and goals

It is believed that dietary supplements help speed up the onset of labor and facilitate its progress.

1. After the 38th week, 500 to 2,000 mg is divided into 2-3 doses orally or administered topically. The first doses are minimal, with a gradual increase. The desired effect is a softening of the cervix.

There are various articles and video blogs on the RuNet about the benefits and harms of the fat in question and its effect on the birth canal. In particular, there are dangerous calls to start taking it as early as 24 weeks.

We kindly ask, dear readers, not to experiment without consulting a doctor.

During pregnancy, you need to rely on a knowledgeable obstetrician-gynecologist. You only need a real person with a state diploma who knows modern standards of evidence-based medicine and has taken responsibility for your well-being. Remember, fans of home births and good advisers from experience are not at all the people who will deal with the side effects of taking dietary supplements in your body.

By the way, to stimulate labor close to the due date, there are methods that have been proven for centuries and are as natural as possible for physiology. These include sex and prolonged physical activity (walking, climbing stairs).

When oil definitely won't help

There is no significant clinical data on the effectiveness of primrose extract for the following diseases:

1. Hypertonic disease
2. Other cardiovascular diseases
3. Neuropathy is a common complication of diabetes mellitus
4. Rheumatoid arthritis
5. Raynaud's disease
6. Diabetes mellitus and associated neuropathy

Although the fat in question is sometimes presented as a kind of panacea, it does not help alleviate the symptoms of all conditions mentioned in advertising.

Here is a list of diseases for which taking capsules will be useless, according to modern data:

1. Asthma
2. ADHD
3. Hepatitis B
4. High blood cholesterol
5. Cancer (including liver and breast cancer)
6. Excess weight
7. Psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis
8. Chronic fatigue syndrome
9. Schizophrenia
10. Dyslexia
11. Alzheimer's disease

Possible harm and contraindications

The supplement is usually easily tolerated.

1. Negative reactions such as softening of the stool, headache, discomfort and stomach pain usually occur only with intensive regimens and quickly disappear when the dose is reduced.
2. Cases of allergies (skin rash, difficulty breathing) are rare.
3. According to women, a common side effect is an increase in libido.

It is believed that evening primrose oil should not be taken in the following cases:

1. With drugs with anticoagulant properties: heparin, aspirin, ibuprofen, warfarin, diclofenac;
2. With medications that lower blood pressure;
3. For epilepsy. There is a possibility that the substance may provoke an attack of the disease;
4. During breastfeeding, since the effect has not been studied.

Debunking myths about benefits

Myth No. 1. “The composition is almost identical to fish oil!”

Is it true. No, and again no: not identical - literally at all. Either the authors did not check what is included in this product and in what concentration. Or they don’t understand the classification of fatty acids. We find no other explanation for such a strange statement.

Let us emphasize once again: the extract from evening primrose seeds contains a lot of omega-6 and a tiny amount of plant omega-3.

Myth No. 2. "It is a rich source of phenylalanine."

Is it true. And again - no, with deep bewilderment towards the author of the idea. Even an ordinary school student should be wary of the idea of ​​an amino acid in pure vegetable fat. There is no phenylalanine in this drug. Automatically, all the effects attributed to the product due to it are an amazing heresy.

Where to buy, prices and analogues

Dietary supplements are produced in different dosages - 500, 1000 and 1300 mg.

The most popular in pharmacies, including chain pharmacies:

1. evening primrose oil from Solgar;
2. Nature's Bounty supplement.

There is also a domestic product called Ginocomfort. Everything is simple with them: do you trust the local manufacturer? Buy now. But be sure to check prices for the same dose. Surprisingly, often the most profitable alternative for a long course is a reputable brand on iherb.

So, the first drug from Solgar can always be bought on iHerb, where there is free delivery, reliable brands, the widest selection and constant discounts.

Here you can see reviews and all the characteristics of evening primrose oil from Solgar.

Both positions are additionally interesting due to “economy delivery”.

We also note that for the maximum concentration of GLA there is a more saturated option - borage (borage) oil. It contains GLA from 25 to 40%.

Why are you interested in dietary supplements based on evening primrose oil? Inspired by reviews from gynecologists? This is a common turn in the lives of people who are attracted to naturopathy. Recently, Russian doctors have fallen in love with evening primrose, following in the footsteps of some colleagues from alternative medicine in Western countries.

However, having understood the composition and scattered instructions, we would not rely on the use of the supplement internally during pregnancy or in serious gynecology.

Learn what's important! Be healthy and see you in the reviews!