Evening primrose oil is a plant native to North America, which bears yellow flowers that bloom in the evening (hence the name). The oil is found in the plant’s seeds and is high in essential fatty acids. They are required and essential for our health, but cannot be made by the body. The seeds of the flower are gathered, then cold pressed to make oil.
Evening primrose oil is a delicious way to support hormonal balance. It’s effective at reducing menstrual cramping, bloat, water retention, breast tenderness and irritability due to hormonal shifts during a woman’s cycle. This oil is rich in gamma-linolenic acid, an essential fatty acid involved in the production of hormone-like substances called prostaglandins. Topically it can be used to treat acne, improve overall skin health, and even relieve arthritis pain.
Instead of taking a supplement, we are fans of using the loose oil in cooking. Evening primrose oil adds a distinct flavor to broths, sauces, soups and many other dishes. The best part of this oil is that a little goes a long way. Just one tablespoon (or even less in many cases) gets the job done. Evening Primrose Oil should be taken with a meal, ideally with some fat, to increase nutrient absorption.
Please note that this oil does have a slight blood thinning affect and can lower blood pressure. Users should consult a doctor if they are taking any other medications whose efficacy might be compromised.