Evening Primose
Evening primrose, extracted from the seeds of a Native American wildflower, is a rich source of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), which our bodies convert into prostaglandins, some of which regulate pain and inflammation. Evening Primrose is also known by the names Primrose, Evening Star, Fever Plant, Night Willow Herb, Scabish, Scurvish, Field Primrose, and German Rampion.
Evening Primrose has long been used as a relish for wine, and to dispel the ill effects from drinking too much. Evening Primrose was also known as "King's Cure-All" for at least 500 years. Traditionally, Evening Primrose had been used as a soothing remedy for coughs associated with colds.
Studies have shown that about seven 500mg capsules of Evening Primrose oil daily, in conjunction with vitamins B-3, B-6, C and zinc, can achieve remarkable results in the treatment of schizophrenia or premenstrual syndrome (PMS). PMS symptom severities, especially depression, were relieved a lot more with the oil than with the placebo. Studies done showed no side effects with the use of Evening Primrose and some women claimed it eased their PMS symptoms, but some experts say do not expect it to work.
Evening Primrose is most commonly taken in the form of an oil, or an encapsulated powder. The common and safe dosage is four to six grams per day.
Warning: Excess consumption can result in oily skin, an indication to decrease dosage.
