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ING-173Ingredient Research Profile

Superfoods & Botanicals

Evening Primrose Oil (GLA)

Also known as: EPO · Gamma-linolenic acid source · Oenothera biennis

●●○Moderate Evidence

Rich in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA — an omega-6 anti-inflammatory fatty acid). The most evidence-backed GLA source for eczema, PMS, and cyclical breast pain.

Effective Dose

1000–3000mg / day

per clinical evidence

Evidence Level

Moderate

Superfoods & Botanicals

Mechanism

GLA → DGLA → anti-inflammatory eicosanoids (PGE1)

primary action

Best For

Eczema

PMS, Mastalgia, Rheumatoid arthritis

This profile is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any supplementation, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or take medications.

What Is Evening Primrose Oil (GLA)?

Evening primrose oil (EPO) contains 8–10% gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) — an omega-6 fatty acid that bypasses the delta-6 desaturase step (often rate-limited in people with eczema or chronic inflammation). GLA converts to DGLA (dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid), which produces the anti-inflammatory prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) rather than the pro-inflammatory PGE2 produced by arachidonic acid.

How It Works: The Science

GLA → DGLA via delta-5 desaturase (avoids the rate-limited delta-6 step). DGLA is converted by COX to PGE1 (anti-inflammatory, vasodilatory) and competes with arachidonic acid for COX, reducing PGE2 production. This shift from PGE2 toward PGE1 reduces inflammation in skin, breast tissue, and joints.

Primary Mechanism

GLA → DGLA → anti-inflammatory eicosanoids (PGE1)

Evidence-Based Benefits

Reduces eczema severity and itch

moderate

Morse et al. (1989) — significant improvement in eczema symptom scores

Reduces cyclical mastalgia (PMS breast pain)

moderate

Gateley et al. (1990) — 3g/day significantly reduced cyclical breast pain

Reduces joint pain in rheumatoid arthritis

moderate

Zurier et al. (1996) — significant reduction in tender and swollen joint counts

Dosage Guide

Effective Dose

1000–3000mg / day

1000–3000mg/day EPO (providing 80–240mg GLA). Take with food. Allow 3–6 months for full therapeutic effect in eczema and RA.

Safety Profile & Side Effects

Generally safe. Mild GI effects at high doses. May lower the seizure threshold in those with temporal lobe epilepsy — caution. Mild anticoagulant effect.

Who Should (and Shouldn't) Take It

Best for

EczemaPMSMastalgiaRheumatoid arthritis

Who it's for

Those with eczema, cyclical PMS breast pain, women with mastalgia, and those with rheumatoid arthritis wanting a natural anti-inflammatory omega-6 supplement.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the recommended dose of Evening Primrose Oil (GLA)?

1000–3000mg/day EPO (providing 80–240mg GLA). Take with food. Allow 3–6 months for full therapeutic effect in eczema and RA.

Is Evening Primrose Oil (GLA) safe?

Generally safe. Mild GI effects at high doses. May lower the seizure threshold in those with temporal lobe epilepsy — caution. Mild anticoagulant effect.

How does Evening Primrose Oil (GLA) work?

Who should take Evening Primrose Oil (GLA)?

Those with eczema, cyclical PMS breast pain, women with mastalgia, and those with rheumatoid arthritis wanting a natural anti-inflammatory omega-6 supplement.

Related Ingredients

Omega-3 (EPA + DHA)Sea Buckthorn Oil Boswellia Serrata Curcumin (with Bioperine / Phytosome)

Medical Disclaimer

Ingredient profiles are for informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any supplementation, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or take medications. Full disclaimer →