Clinical studies on Evening Primrose Oil suggest it reduces inflammation and alleviates some forms of hormonal stress. This nutritional property, in conjunction with the presence of other phyto (or plant-based) nutrients, makes EPO an attractive source of hormone builders.
EPO also contains other nutritional lipids such as phospholipids, sterols, and other active phyto-compounds. Independent medical research indicates these compounds are significant immune system and cell builders.
EPO) is best known for its success in relieving Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS). It has also been nutritionally useful in the treatment of arthritis, high blood pressure, cirrhosis of the liver, heart disease and cholesterol. This is due to the rich (72%) omega-6 and (9%) gamma linolenic acid (GLA) content. GLA plays an important role in the body’s first step in converting omega-6 to series one prostaglandin (PG1). PG1’s job is to keep the blood thin and moving smoothly. When healthy blood flows through the body, inflammation, high blood pressure, and some PMS symptoms are reduced.
In most healthy individuals, this conversion process (omega-6 to GLA to PG1) happens automatically. However, about 20% of the population cannot convert omega-6 into GLA effectively, and therefore must supplement through diet. This makes GLA-rich Evening Primrose Oil a prized therapeutic lipid.