Evening primrose oil: the darling of women

It has been very successful among women who care about their well-being and their beauty. Maybe you’ve heard of it, but have you researched the real benefits that consuming evening primrose oil offers?

Nutritionist Roberta J. Abreu, a clinical nutritionist with a postgraduate degree from Universidade Gama Filho, explains that primrose is a plant native to North America. “It is also known as ‘evening primrose’ because its flowers open at dusk. It is from her that this oil is extracted, which is excellent for the proper functioning of the body and which is not naturally produced by our body”, she says.

Evening primrose oil, as explained by the nutritionist, is rich in essential fatty acids from the omega-6 series, which consist of linoleic acid and gamma linolenic acid (GLA). In addition to being part of the structure of cell membranes, GLA originates prostaglandin E1 – a substance that helps balance female hormones, reducing the impacts of premenstrual tension – PMS.

Evening primrose oil benefits

As nutritionist Roberta quotes, the best benefit that evening primrose oil can offer women is to help control PMS (which includes mood swings, swelling, headache and breast pain, among other symptoms). However, other positive points have been associated with its consumption.

Studies have shown that ingesting the oil increases the skin’s tolerance to exposure to ultraviolet rays. In addition, it reduces the loss of water through the skin, maintaining its hydration and elasticity. And it can even help fight acne.

Evening primrose oil, a source of GLA, has also been shown to reduce the symptoms of atopic dermatitis – a chronic disease that causes inflammation of the skin, leading to the appearance of skin lesions and itching.

Some women have even guaranteed that this oil helps in the slimming process, as it prevents fluid retention, and can improve insomnia.

And the good news is that a number of studies on the benefits of Evening Primrose Oil are still ongoing, trying to show that the product can be used successfully for different purposes.

form of consumption

According to nutritionist Roberta Abreu, the most practical way to consume the oil is through capsules. “For my patients, I recommend one capsule before lunch, daily,” she adds. The product can be found in compounding pharmacies and health food stores.

Contraindications

Although there is no contraindication, it is interesting to seek the opinion of a health professional – whether a doctor or nutritionist you trust – before starting to consume evening primrose oil. He will be able to inform you with more certainty if the product will help you in your goals and, also, what is the ideal amount to be consumed.

The information contained on this page is for informational purposes only. They do not replace the advice and follow-up of doctors, nutritionists, psychologists, physical education professionals and other specialists.