Evening Primrose Oil (Oenothera Biennis) - 608 Words

Common and Latin name: Evening primrose oil (Oenothera biennis).1 Indication: Pre-menstrual Syndrome.1 Mechanism of action: Some women suffering from pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS) are believed to be deficient in certain fatty acids that may be responsible in worsening symptoms.1 It is theorized that those fatty acids can be replenished by taking evening primrose oil, which is believed to be rich in those fatty acids.1 Efficacy: Evening primrose oil use is popular among women suffering from premenstrual syndrome symptoms.2 Some studies suggested that evening primrose oil is effective in alleviating symptoms of PMS when compared to placebo.2 While other studies demonstrated conflicting evidence that proved it ineffective in treating PMS symptoms, concluding that further research is necessary to prove its effectiveness.2 Contraindications: Evening primrose oil should be avoided in pregnant women as it may increase the risk of pregnancy complications.1 In addition, evening primrose oil should be avoided in individuals who are allergic or may experience hypersensitivity reactions to evening primrose oil, its ingredients, plant species belonging to the Onagraceae family, or gamma-linolenic acid (GLA).1 Side effects: Evening primrose oil may lower blood pressure.2 Additionally, evening primrose oil has been shown to increase the risk of bleeding.2 Moreover, evening primrose oil may induce nausea and vomiting.2 Warnings/Precautions: Individuals with seizure disorders or takingShow MoreRelatedHerbal Supplements And Drugs Interactions1462 Words   |  6 Pagestoxicity. For example, evening primrose oil may interact with anticoagulants and antiplatelet medications (â€Å"VP-PRECIP†, 2014). Bayles (2009) stated that â€Å"the seeds of the evening primrose are rich in omega-6 essential fatty acids (EFAs), including linoleic acid and gamma-linolenic acid (GLA)† (p.1405). Omega-6 EFAs and GLA contain some properties, which help to reduce inflammatory. Evening primrose oil (Oenothera biennis) is a native North American plant. Evening primrose oil (EPO) is commonly useRead MoreWhat Is Herbal Medicine - Research Paper3363 Words   |  14 Pagesginseng, or Asian ginseng; and Panax quinquefolius, or American ginseng), goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis), valerian (Valeriana officinalis), chamomile (Matricaria recutita), feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium), ginger (Zingiber officinale), evening primrose (Oenothera biennis), and milk thistle (Silybum marianum). Often, herbs may be used together because the combination is more effective and may have fewer side effects. Health care providers must take many factors into account when recommending herbs, including