By now, who hasn’t heard of the evening primrose oil How much interest does it generate? Well yes, we are referring to the new fashionable oil that is especially known for its gynecological properties, which is why the evening primrose plant is also known as the ‘plant of women’.
But the benefits of this wild plant go much further. and for this reason it has different therapeutic indications. Now, despite the fact that evening primrose oil has a large following of fans, it is an oil that still does not have much scientific evidence. So, here we are going to tell you everything about this oil and we will clarify all the doubts.
What is the oil of onagra?
Evening primrose oil is extracted from the plant Oenothera Biennis which is its botanical name, but it is commonly known as evening primrose and it is also known as the ‘donkey grass’ and belongs to the onagraceae family.
This plant is native to America from North and it was brought to Europe at the beginning of the 17th century, although at first it was only claimed for ornamental purposes due to the yellow color of its flowers. It was in the eighteenth century when it began to be consumed due to lack of food.
It is a biennial plant (flowers in June and September) that grows in temperate zones and in wild places along roads and highways. It can measure up to one meter and is characterized by green leaves and yellow flowers that are accompanied by capsules that contain the seeds inside and it is precisely from these that the oil is obtained.
Evening primrose oil: properties and benefits
Evening primrose oil is obtained by cold pressing the seeds that are rich in oily substances and its composition is made up of unsaturated essential fatty acids (known as good oils). The polyunsaturated oils They are very beneficial for the body and evening primrose is made up of Omega 6, linoleic acid and a-linoleic acid. Although it also has a low percentage of non-essential fatty acids such as palmitic (7%) and stearic (2%). In addition, evening primrose oil also provides vitamin C, copper, iron, potassium, calcium and magnesium.
The beneficial effect of primrose oil is generally associated with gamma-linolenic polyunsaturated fatty acid (GLA), which is a type of omega 6 that this oil contains and participates in various functions.
What is evening primrose oil used for?
As we told you at the beginning, evening primrose oil is known as the woman’s plant and this is because among its properties is that of relieving the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome both physically and psychologically. even those of menopause.
Also the benefits of evening primrose oil on skin health are known. Due to its properties, it improves its appearance and increases hydration, being very useful in case of dry, dim skin or even to combat eczema.
It is also a very appreciated oil for its use in skin problems such as eczema or acne. In addition, evening primrose helps with the activity of the vascular system, improving blood circulation, venous tone and avoiding thrombus formation, thus reducing the possibility of suffering coronary diseases
Other of its most interesting benefits are its ability to reduce bad cholesterol thanks to its high content of essential fatty acids. Strengthens the immune system improving natural defenses. And it is highly appreciated for its satiating capacity since the fatty acids it contains regulate appetite, which is a great ally when it comes to losing weight.
Is evening primrose oil really good for weight loss?
As we said, evening primrose oil is made up of essential fatty acids for the proper functioning of the body, such as those that we can find in avocado or olive oil, which are very beneficial. In addition, this oil controls bad cholesterol and produces a increased feeling of satiety so it is an oil that is often highly recommended to lose weight, always accompanied by a balanced diet and physical activity.
Even so, there is no scientific evidence in this regard or that it is more effective than other oils.
Possible side effects
Regarding contraindications, there are not too many studies that show certain side effects, although it seems that nausea, indigestion or headaches may be some of them.
In the case of taking other medications, consult the specialists beforehand as it could interact with them. It is also not recommended in the case of people with epilepsy or schizophrenia as it can increase the risk of seizures.
How to use evening primrose oil
The most common way to consume evening primrose oil is in the form of supplements and the most common format is pearls that can easily be found in pharmacies or herbalists. In general, it is recommended to take two capsules a day, although everything will depend on each brand.
–Arkocapsules Evening Primrose Oil Arkopharma, the properties of this oil offer benefits against menstrual symptoms, helping to soothe pain in the breasts, head and ovaries. Price 27.80 euros.
Arkocapsules Evening Primrose Oil Arkopharma
–Evening Primrose Oil Pearls Donnaplus, food supplement based on first cold-pressed evening primrose oil, being a useful alternative to relieve discomfort associated with Premenstrual Syndrome such as irritability, nervousness, fluid retention or breast tension. Price 10.99 euros.
Evening Primrose Oil Pearls Donnaplus
–Evening primrose oil and vitamin E Ana María Lajusticia, indicated for people with circulatory problems, thrombophlebitis, skin problems, menstrual pain or menopause. Price 19.50 euros.
Ana Maria Lajusticia – Evening primrose oil
–Drasanvi Evening Primrose Oil Pearls, is an oil rich in linoleic acid and gamma-linolenic acid. It has been cold pressed so it has not been refined and retains all its properties. Price 9.45 euros.
Drasanvi Evening Primrose Oil Pearls
–Capsules Evening Primrose Oil + Vitamin E Healthy Healthy, evening primrose oil pearls that are boosted with vitamin E. Perfect for skin, menstrual symptoms or menopause. Price 10.65 euros.
100 Capsules Evening Primrose Oil + Vitamin E Healthy Healthy
–Solgar Primrose Oil 1300mg, is a natural source of the omega-6 essential fatty acid. It has been cold pressed and comes in an easy to take softgel. Price 24 euros.
–Mar-Vitoil Marnys with Evening Primrose oil and Vitamin E, contributes to the maintenance of the metabolic profile in women. High quality cold pressed. Price 30.95 euros.
Capsules Mar-Vitoil Evening Primrose Oil Marnys
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