Herb Weavers Journal #139 - 3rd June 2025

Evening Primrose

This plant is filled with essential fatty acids and particularly high in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), which is an omega-6 fatty acid. The body cannot make this acid itself, so it has to come from food or supplements.

Most people consume EP as a shop bought oil, but if you grow it, you can pick and use in other ways. Apply as a topical oil to help skin conditions. Make salves and balms with it and eat the young leaves and root as a food.

Omega 3 helps support a healthy brain most importantly, and studies are being done to see how it particularly helps people with ADHD.

Also associated with women’s health, it may help alleviate symptoms associated with menstruation and menopause, such as hot flushes and night sweats.  Some have found it can help regulate flow too.

It can help reduce inflammation in the body such as from arthritis and also menopause conditions like swelling around the belly.

It has been used to help treat acne and supports the treatment of lesions in the skin.

Also the other high fatty acids like linolenic acid can potentially help reduce neuropathy symptoms, like hot and cold sensitivity, weakness, numbness and tingling.

A 2020 study showed that EP can help lower cholesterol levels, thus supporting the heart to be healthier.

Although considered to be a safe treatment, be aware of taking with warfarin and seek advise from your GP first, as with all major health issues or when taking something for the first time.