Onagraceae
Evening Primrose
Oenothera biennis
✓ Generally Safe
Caution in Pregnancy
Native to: North America
Also known as: Common Evening Primrose, Evening Star, Sun Drop
Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA
Parts Used
Seed
Therapeutic Uses
Atopic eczema (multiple RCTs — reduces itch and severity), PMS and mastalgia (clinical trials), diabetic neuropathy, rheumatoid arthritis, ADHD. GLA is precursor to anti-inflammatory prostaglandin E1.
Herbal Actions
Anti-inflammatory (GLA → DGLA → anti-inflammatory prostaglandins), hormonal modulator, skin nourishing
Active Constituents
Seed oil: gamma-linolenic acid (GLA 7–14%), linoleic acid (70%), vitamin E
Preparation Methods
💊 Capsule💧 Infused Oil
Traditional Preparation Notes
| Herbal Tea | N/A — seed oil preparation only |
| Tincture | Oil: 3–6g GLA daily (500mg capsules 6–12x). Eczema: 160–320mg GLA daily |
| Notes | GLA content varies — look for standardized preparations. Take with food (fat absorption). Effects take 3–6 months for skin conditions. Borage seed oil contains 2–3x more GLA (alternative). |
Safety Information
Safety Rating
✓ Generally Safe
Pregnancy
Caution in Pregnancy
Drug Interactions
Possible — consult doctor
Contraindications: Caution with anticoagulants (GLA mildly antiplatelet). Avoid with phenothiazines. Caution in epilepsy.
Side Effects: GI upset if taken without food. Mild anticoagulant effect. Headache rarely.