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OMEGA & ESSENTIAL FATS

Evening Primrose Oil

Skin · PMS · hormonal balance

MODERATE EVIDENCEVEGANREAD THE RESEARCH
Written to our editorial standards · reviewed against published research· Updated 2 Jun 2026
Last reviewed: May 30, 2026
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Evening Primrose Oil: Skin · PMS · hormonal balance. Rich source of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an omega-6 the body uses to produce anti-inflammatory prostaglandins. Long used for PMS and skin support. Standard dose 1300 mg (130 mg GLA), taken in the morning, about $17/month. Evidence rating: moderate evidence.

What is Evening Primrose Oil?

Evening primrose oil is extracted from the seeds of the wildflower Oenothera biennis. Its therapeutic value comes from its uniquely high content of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an omega-6 fatty acid that the body converts into prostaglandin E1, a signaling molecule with anti-inflammatory and hormonal-balancing effects. Clinical research has explored EPO for cyclical breast discomfort, PMS-related symptoms, atopic skin conditions, and mild joint inflammation. Because most modern Western diets are rich in pro-inflammatory omega-6 forms, GLA supplementation can shift the balance toward the more beneficial prostaglandins. Standard doses range from 1,300-3,000 mg per day (delivering 130-300 mg of GLA).

WHY IT MATTERS

Rich source of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an omega-6 the body uses to produce anti-inflammatory prostaglandins. Long used for PMS and skin support.

Natural food sources

Where possible, get Evening Primrose Oil from whole foods first. Common dietary sources include:

Borage seed oilBlackcurrant seed oilHemp seeds & hemp oilSpirulinaOats & barley (trace GLA)

Where to buy

Nature's Way EFAGold Evening Primrose 1300mg
RECOMMENDED
Nature's Way, Evening Primrose Oil
1300 mg (130 mg GLA) · Morning · ~$17/month

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Common questions

What is Evening Primrose Oil?
Evening primrose oil is extracted from the seeds of the wildflower Oenothera biennis. Its therapeutic value comes from its uniquely high content of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an omega-6 fatty acid that the body converts into prostaglandin E1, a signaling molecule with anti-inflammatory and hormonal-balancing effects. Clinical research has explored EPO for cyclical breast discomfort, PMS-related symptoms, atopic skin conditions, and mild joint inflammation. Because most modern Western diets are rich in pro-inflammatory omega-6 forms, GLA supplementation can shift the balance toward the more beneficial prostaglandins. Standard doses range from 1,300-3,000 mg per day (delivering 130-300 mg of GLA).
What is Evening Primrose Oil used for?
Skin · PMS · hormonal balance. Rich source of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an omega-6 the body uses to produce anti-inflammatory prostaglandins. Long used for PMS and skin support.
What is the standard dose of Evening Primrose Oil?
1300 mg (130 mg GLA), typically taken in the morning. Approximate cost is $17 per month.
Who should avoid Evening Primrose Oil?
Use extra caution, and speak to a clinician first, if you are on blood thinners.
How strong is the evidence for Evening Primrose Oil?
Moderate evidence for its primary uses. See the full study list on the research page.

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