Last update
3/15/2026
Research Authors

Overview

SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Questionable
Based on 16 Researches
6.9
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 12 Reviews
8.4
Supplement Facts
Serving Size:  1 Softgel
Amount Per Serving
%DV
Calories
15
 
Total Fat
1.5 g
2%‡
Evening Primrose Seed Oil (Oenothera biennis)
1,300 mg
GLA (Gamma-Linolenic Acid)
130 mg
📅 Last updated:

Top Medical Research Studies

4
Evening primrose oil mildly helpful
We looked at how evening primrose oil, rich in gamma-linolenic acid, might help patients with rheumatoid arthritis. In a 6-month double-blind study, 40 participants took either evening primrose oil or a placebo. While some mild improvements were noted in morning stiffness for those on the supplement, overall, the benefits were not significant. Interestingly, olive oil also showed notable effects in reducing pain by the study's end. Therefore, evening primrose oil may offer some benefits, but olive oil deserves attention for its own positive outcomes.
Read More
8
Dietary supplements in multiple sclerosis
We explored how evening primrose oil, along with hemp seed oil and a specific diet, can influence relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). In a double-blind, randomized trial, 100 patients were divided into three groups to receive varying supplements over six months.

Our findings indicated that co-supplementation with evening primrose and hemp seed oils, combined with a Hot-natured diet, could improve clinical symptoms and regulate certain enzymes linked to the condition. This suggests a potential dietary approach for managing RRMS.
Read More
8
Evening primrose oil aids arthritis management
We aimed to understand how evening primrose oil (EPO) affects rheumatoid arthritis, a chronic inflammatory condition. This was investigated through a study involving male albino rats injected with an arthritis-inducing agent.

EPO, alone or with traditional drugs like aspirin and celecoxib, appeared to help normalize body weight and decrease inflammatory markers. Notably, treatment with EPO led to reduced joint inflammation and damage, highlighting its potential as an effective supplement alongside standard medications.

While results are encouraging, the study indicates a blend of EPO and analgesics might be ideal for managing arthritis symptoms.
Read More

Most Useful Reviews

9
Menopause relief for mother
6 people found this helpful
I ordered evening primrose oil for my mother to alleviate her menopause symptoms. After combining it with green tea extract, we quickly saw improvements in her condition. Regaining balance in her health has truly been a blessing!
Read More
9
No more pain
1 people found this helpful
At 37, I struggled with mid-cycle spotting, leading my doctor to suspect hormonal issues. After starting on evening primrose oil, I’ve experienced monthly periods without pain or excessive symptoms. This treatment has provided significant relief and I'm grateful, especially as I also take vitamins for additional support.
Read More
9
Condition improved
1 people found this helpful
My mother has been using evening primrose oil during menopause and she reports a noticeable improvement in her condition. It's been a reliable help for her, and we plan to continue ordering more.
Read More

Medical Researches

SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Questionable
Based on 16 Researches
6.9
  • All Researches
9
We investigated how evening primrose and hemp seed oil might help manage autoimmune disorders using a mouse model of multiple sclerosis. After triggering the disease in mice, we observed that the oil treatment significantly reduced disease severity.

It also altered gene expression related to inflammation and immune response in a favorable way. Notably, the oil decreased certain inflammatory gene activities while boosting protective ones, suggesting potential therapeutic benefits for autoimmune conditions like multiple sclerosis.
Read More
8
Evening primrose oil shows potential
We evaluated how evening primrose oil (EPO) and hemp seed oil (HSO) might aid in managing autoimmune disorders like multiple sclerosis. Our research involved inducing experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) in mice and comparing the effects of EPO/HSO with rapamycin, a known mTOR inhibitor.

The results showed that EPO/HSO treatment notably improved the repair of myelin, reducing cell infiltration and promoting regeneration. Although our study indicated some beneficial effects, it's essential to acknowledge that the advantages reported were not as pronounced as those seen with rapamycin treatment.
Read More
8
Evening primrose oil benefits rheumatoid arthritis
We explored the effects of omega-3 fatty acids and evening primrose oil in a study involving 60 patients with active rheumatoid arthritis. Over 12 weeks, participants were divided into three groups—some received fish oil, others received a combination of fish oil and evening primrose oil, while a control group got no supplementation.

Results showed that both the fish oil and the combined treatment led to significant reductions in disease activity scores and tender joints. This improvement highlights the potential of these supplements, particularly when paired, to enhance the management of rheumatoid arthritis.
Read More
8
Dietary supplements in multiple sclerosis
We explored how evening primrose oil, along with hemp seed oil and a specific diet, can influence relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). In a double-blind, randomized trial, 100 patients were divided into three groups to receive varying supplements over six months.

Our findings indicated that co-supplementation with evening primrose and hemp seed oils, combined with a Hot-natured diet, could improve clinical symptoms and regulate certain enzymes linked to the condition. This suggests a potential dietary approach for managing RRMS.
Read More
8
Evening primrose oil aids arthritis management
We aimed to understand how evening primrose oil (EPO) affects rheumatoid arthritis, a chronic inflammatory condition. This was investigated through a study involving male albino rats injected with an arthritis-inducing agent.

EPO, alone or with traditional drugs like aspirin and celecoxib, appeared to help normalize body weight and decrease inflammatory markers. Notably, treatment with EPO led to reduced joint inflammation and damage, highlighting its potential as an effective supplement alongside standard medications.

While results are encouraging, the study indicates a blend of EPO and analgesics might be ideal for managing arthritis symptoms.
Read More

User Reviews

USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 12 Reviews
8.4
  • All Reviews
  • Positive Reviews
  • Negative Reviews
9
Menopause relief for mother
6 people found this helpful
I ordered evening primrose oil for my mother to alleviate her menopause symptoms. After combining it with green tea extract, we quickly saw improvements in her condition. Regaining balance in her health has truly been a blessing!
Read More
9
No more pain
1 people found this helpful
At 37, I struggled with mid-cycle spotting, leading my doctor to suspect hormonal issues. After starting on evening primrose oil, I’ve experienced monthly periods without pain or excessive symptoms. This treatment has provided significant relief and I'm grateful, especially as I also take vitamins for additional support.
Read More
9
Condition improved
1 people found this helpful
My mother has been using evening primrose oil during menopause and she reports a noticeable improvement in her condition. It's been a reliable help for her, and we plan to continue ordering more.
Read More
9
Facilitates childbirth
45 people found this helpful
I ordered primrose oil to prepare for childbirth, ideally starting from 32 weeks. I began taking it from week 34 and delivered in just 2.5 hours with painless contractions. Thank you for the support! ❤️
Read More
9
No tears during birth
15 people found this helpful
This product is essential for women's health! I used it in the final stages of pregnancy for rupture prevention. The oil enhances ligament elasticity and prepares the cervix for childbirth. I followed a regimen, and the result was no tears or cracks during delivery.
Read More

Frequently Asked Questions

7.5
Effective for menopause
10 people found this helpful
I ordered evening primrose oil for the first time and I have not regretted it. My skin feels nourished and I've noticed less hair loss. My mother, who has suffered from menopause symptoms for years, saw significant improvement with this oil. It's not a quick fix but has provided beneficial results over time.
9
No more pain
1 people found this helpful
At 37, I struggled with mid-cycle spotting, leading my doctor to suspect hormonal issues. After starting on evening primrose oil, I’ve experienced monthly periods without pain or excessive symptoms. This treatment has provided significant relief and I'm grateful, especially as I also take vitamins for additional support.
9
Menopause relief for mother
6 people found this helpful
I ordered evening primrose oil for my mother to alleviate her menopause symptoms. After combining it with green tea extract, we quickly saw improvements in her condition. Regaining balance in her health has truly been a blessing!
9
Improved menstrual health
1 people found this helpful
I was recommended this by a dermatologist to reduce hormonal effects on my sebaceous glands. The result has been fantastic; my menstrual cycle and overall health during this time have improved significantly, and the dosage is very convenient.
9
Facilitates childbirth
45 people found this helpful
I ordered primrose oil to prepare for childbirth, ideally starting from 32 weeks. I began taking it from week 34 and delivered in just 2.5 hours with painless contractions. Thank you for the support! ❤️
8
Evening primrose oil benefits rheumatoid arthritis
We explored the effects of omega-3 fatty acids and evening primrose oil in a study involving 60 patients with active rheumatoid arthritis. Over 12 weeks, participants were divided into three groups—some received fish oil, others received a combination of fish oil and evening primrose oil, while a control group got no supplementation.

Results showed that both the fish oil and the combined treatment led to significant reductions in disease activity scores and tender joints. This improvement highlights the potential of these supplements, particularly when paired, to enhance the management of rheumatoid arthritis.
8
Dietary supplements in multiple sclerosis
We explored how evening primrose oil, along with hemp seed oil and a specific diet, can influence relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). In a double-blind, randomized trial, 100 patients were divided into three groups to receive varying supplements over six months.

Our findings indicated that co-supplementation with evening primrose and hemp seed oils, combined with a Hot-natured diet, could improve clinical symptoms and regulate certain enzymes linked to the condition. This suggests a potential dietary approach for managing RRMS.
7
Evening primrose oil shows subjective improvement
We explored how evening primrose oil (EPO) and its combination with fish oil affect rheumatoid arthritis (RA) treatment. In a study with 49 patients, those taking EPO or EPO/fish oil reported notable improvements after 12 months and managed to reduce their use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

However, after three months off treatment, participants experienced relapses in symptoms, suggesting that while EPO can improve feelings of well-being and lessen NSAID dependency, it doesn't seem to alter the underlying disease course.

References

  1. Rezapour-Firouzi S, Mohammadian M, Sadeghzadeh M, Mehranfar S, Mazloomi E. The Effects of Evening Primrose/Hemp Seed Oil Compared to Rapamycin on the Gene Expression of Immunological Parameters in Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis Splenocytes. Iran J Allergy Asthma Immunol. 2020;19:183. 10.18502/ijaai.v19i2.2771
  2. Rezapour-Firouzi S, Kheradmand F, Shahabi S, Tehrani AA, Mazloomi E, et al. Regulatory effects of hemp seed/evening primrose oil supplement in comparison with rapamycin on the expression of the mammalian target of and genes in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis. Res Pharm Sci. 2019;14:36. 10.4103/1735-5362.251851
  3. Veselinovic M, Vasiljevic D, Vucic V, Arsic A, Petrovic S, et al. Clinical Benefits of n-3 PUFA and ɤ-Linolenic Acid in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis. Nutrients. 2017;9. 10.3390/nu9040325
  4. Vasiljevic D, Veselinovic M, Jovanovic M, Jeremic N, Arsic A, et al. Evaluation of the effects of different supplementation on oxidative status in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Clin Rheumatol. 2016;35:1909. 10.1007/s10067-016-3168-2
  5. Rezapour-Firouzi S, Arefhosseini SR, Ebrahimi-Mamaghani M, Baradaran B, Sadeghihokmabad E, et al. Alteration of delta-6-desaturase (FADS2), secretory phospholipase-A2 (sPLA2) enzymes by Hot-nature diet with co-supplemented hemp seed, evening primrose oils intervention in multiple sclerosis patients. Complement Ther Med. 2015;23:652. 10.1016/j.ctim.2015.07.003
  6. Rezapour-Firouzi S, Arefhosseini SR, Ebrahimi-Mamaghani M, Baradaran B, Sadeghihokmabad E, et al. Activity of liver enzymes in multiple sclerosis patients with Hot-nature diet and co-supplemented hemp seed, evening primrose oils intervention. Complement Ther Med. 2014;22:986. 10.1016/j.ctim.2014.10.004
  7. El-Sayed RM, Moustafa YM, El-Azab MF. Evening primrose oil and celecoxib inhibited pathological angiogenesis, inflammation, and oxidative stress in adjuvant-induced arthritis: novel role of angiopoietin-1. Inflammopharmacology. 2014;22:305. 10.1007/s10787-014-0200-5
  8. Rezapour-Firouzi S, Arefhosseini SR, Ebrahimi-Mamaghani M, Farhoudi M, Baradaran B, et al. Erythrocyte membrane fatty acids in multiple sclerosis patients and hot-nature dietary intervention with co-supplemented hemp-seed and evening-primrose oils. Afr J Tradit Complement Altern Med. 2013;10:519. PubMed
  9. Rezapour-Firouzi S, Arefhosseini SR, Mehdi F, Mehrangiz EM, Baradaran B, et al. Immunomodulatory and therapeutic effects of Hot-nature diet and co-supplemented hemp seed, evening primrose oils intervention in multiple sclerosis patients. Complement Ther Med. 2013;21:473. 10.1016/j.ctim.2013.06.006
  10. Cameron M, Gagnier JJ, Chrubasik S. Herbal therapy for treating rheumatoid arthritis. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2011. 10.1002/14651858.CD002948.pub2
  11. Theander E, Horrobin DF, Jacobsson LT, Manthorpe R. Gammalinolenic acid treatment of fatigue associated with primary Sjögren's syndrome. Scand J Rheumatol. 2002;31:72. PubMed
  12. Brzeski M, Madhok R, Capell HA. Evening primrose oil in patients with rheumatoid arthritis and side-effects of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Br J Rheumatol. 1991;30:370. PubMed
  13. Arisaka M, Arisaka O, Yamashiro Y. Fatty acid and prostaglandin metabolism in children with diabetes mellitus. II. The effect of evening primrose oil supplementation on serum fatty acid and plasma prostaglandin levels. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids. 1991;43:197. PubMed
  14. Belch JJ, Ansell D, Madhok R, O'Dowd A, Sturrock RD. Effects of altering dietary essential fatty acids on requirements for non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: a double blind placebo controlled study. Ann Rheum Dis. 1988;47:96. PubMed
  15. Watson J, Godfrey D, Stimson WH, Belch JJ, Sturrock RD. The therapeutic effects of dietary fatty acid supplementation in the autoimmune disease of the MRL-mp-lpr/lpr mouse. Int J Immunopharmacol. 1988;10:467. PubMed
  16. Papanikolaou N. Alteration of mercuric chloride-induced autoimmune glomerulonephritis in brown-Norway rats by herring oil, evening primrose oil and OKY-046 a selective TXA-synthetase inhibitor. Prostaglandins Leukot Med. 1987;27:129. PubMed
Data last updated:
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