Overview

SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 6 Researches
7
USERS' SCORE
Moderately Good
Based on 5 Reviews
7.8
Supplement Facts
Serving Size: 1 Softgel
Amount Per Serving
%DV
Calories
15
 
Total Fat
1.5 g
2%**
Polyunsaturated Fat
1 g
***
Evening Primrose Oil (Seed) providing:
1300 mg
***
Linoleic Acid
949 mg
***
Gamma-Linolenic Acid
117 mg
***

Top Medical Research Studies

We examined the latest insights into herbal therapies for rheumatoid arthritis, including evening primrose oil. Our analysis included 22 studies, revealing moderate evidence suggesting that gamma linolenic acid (GLA), found in evening primrose oil, may ease pain and disability related to RA.

However, while some benefits were noted, the evidence remains mixed and the risk of side effects should not be overlooked. More comprehensive studies are needed to firmly establish its effectiveness for RA treatment.
Read More
7
Evening primrose oil shows symptom relief
We explored the impact of evening primrose oil (EPO) on rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in a double-blind, placebo-controlled study involving 49 patients. Participants took EPO or EPO combined with fish oil, with the aim of reducing reliance on non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

After 12 months, those on EPO noted significant improvements and were able to cut back on their NSAIDs. However, once they switched to placebo, they relapsed, revealing that while EPO may improve symptoms, it doesn't change the underlying disease. Thus, it appears evening primrose oil can help manage RA symptoms and lessen NSAID use, but it doesn’t modify the disease itself.
Read More
4
Evening primrose oil shows mild effect
We looked into how evening primrose oil might help relieve symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis in a study involving 40 patients over six months. Patients were split into two groups: one received evening primrose oil, while the other got a placebo.

While there were mild improvements in morning stiffness for those taking evening primrose oil, olive oil actually showed a more significant reduction in pain over time. Therefore, evening primrose oil may offer some benefits, but olive oil revealed notable advantages that shouldn't be overlooked.
Read More

Most Useful Reviews

9
Pain relief noted
4 people found this helpful
I have been using evening primrose oil for a long while, and I can only share positive experiences. At 52, I started taking it for hot flashes, and it certainly helped. Additionally, it provided relief for my knee problems associated with rheumatoid arthritis. It’s noted that gamma-linolenic acid can alleviate the chronic inflammation pain typical of rheumatoid arthritis, making this oil a valuable addition to my routine.
Read More
7.5
Joint pain relief
3 people found this helpful
The addition of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) from evening primrose oil can help alleviate symptoms associated with rheumatoid arthritis, such as joint pain and stiffness. It replenishes GLA in the body, enhancing the condition of the skin, hair, and nails. Evening primrose oil is also beneficial for dry, inflamed skin and aids in improving the protective functions of the skin. Furthermore, it plays a role in reducing fluid retention during pregnancy and has significant health benefits for the cardiovascular system by lowering blood pressure. The effective dosage tends to vary, with recommendations ranging between 500 to 6000 milligrams daily.
Read More
7.5
Reduced symptoms
This oil has greatly improved my monthly cycle and helped lessen the severity of my daily discomfort. Specifically, it alleviates my joint issues linked to rheumatoid arthritis, which I have endured for several years. I feel more relaxed in my daily life thanks to the benefits of evening primrose oil.
Read More

Medical Researches

SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 6 Researches
7
  • All Researches
8
We examined how supplementation with marine omega-3 fatty acids and evening primrose oil (rich in GLA) could help relieve rheumatoid arthritis symptoms in a randomized trial of 60 patients.

After 12 weeks, those taking either fish oil alone or in combination with evening primrose oil showed remarkable improvements in joint pain and disease activity compared to those who received no supplements.

This suggests that these oils may significantly benefit people dealing with the inflammation and discomfort of rheumatoid arthritis.
Read More
8
EPO shows promise for arthritis
We investigated the potential benefits of evening primrose oil (EPO) on rheumatoid arthritis, focusing on its anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties. Using an animal model, we found that EPO normalized body weight and reduced inflammatory markers in rats with arthritis.

Moreover, it showed improvement in joint health and decreased inflammation when used alone or alongside traditional pain relievers like aspirin and celecoxib. While these findings are promising, it’s essential to note that the impact is still being explored in more extensive studies.
Read More
We explored the effects of evening primrose oil and its key components, long-chain fatty alcohols (LCFAs), on inflammation. In our tests, these compounds demonstrated a remarkable ability to reduce inflammatory responses in lab-based mouse macrophages, decreasing the production of factors that drive inflammation.

While evening primrose oil has traditionally been used for conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, the study highlighted that these LCFAs specifically target gene expressions involved in inflammation. Though the findings are promising, more research is needed to see how this translates to human health outcomes.
Read More
We examined the latest insights into herbal therapies for rheumatoid arthritis, including evening primrose oil. Our analysis included 22 studies, revealing moderate evidence suggesting that gamma linolenic acid (GLA), found in evening primrose oil, may ease pain and disability related to RA.

However, while some benefits were noted, the evidence remains mixed and the risk of side effects should not be overlooked. More comprehensive studies are needed to firmly establish its effectiveness for RA treatment.
Read More
7
Evening primrose oil shows symptom relief
We explored the impact of evening primrose oil (EPO) on rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in a double-blind, placebo-controlled study involving 49 patients. Participants took EPO or EPO combined with fish oil, with the aim of reducing reliance on non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

After 12 months, those on EPO noted significant improvements and were able to cut back on their NSAIDs. However, once they switched to placebo, they relapsed, revealing that while EPO may improve symptoms, it doesn't change the underlying disease. Thus, it appears evening primrose oil can help manage RA symptoms and lessen NSAID use, but it doesn’t modify the disease itself.
Read More

User Reviews

USERS' SCORE
Moderately Good
Based on 5 Reviews
7.8
  • All Reviews
  • Positive Reviews
  • Negative Reviews
9
Pain relief noted
4 people found this helpful
I have been using evening primrose oil for a long while, and I can only share positive experiences. At 52, I started taking it for hot flashes, and it certainly helped. Additionally, it provided relief for my knee problems associated with rheumatoid arthritis. It’s noted that gamma-linolenic acid can alleviate the chronic inflammation pain typical of rheumatoid arthritis, making this oil a valuable addition to my routine.
Read More
7.5
Joint pain relief
3 people found this helpful
The addition of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) from evening primrose oil can help alleviate symptoms associated with rheumatoid arthritis, such as joint pain and stiffness. It replenishes GLA in the body, enhancing the condition of the skin, hair, and nails. Evening primrose oil is also beneficial for dry, inflamed skin and aids in improving the protective functions of the skin. Furthermore, it plays a role in reducing fluid retention during pregnancy and has significant health benefits for the cardiovascular system by lowering blood pressure. The effective dosage tends to vary, with recommendations ranging between 500 to 6000 milligrams daily.
Read More
7.5
Reduced symptoms
This oil has greatly improved my monthly cycle and helped lessen the severity of my daily discomfort. Specifically, it alleviates my joint issues linked to rheumatoid arthritis, which I have endured for several years. I feel more relaxed in my daily life thanks to the benefits of evening primrose oil.
Read More
7.5
Therapeutic benefits
Today, evening primrose oil is well-known for containing omega-6 essential fatty acids, including gamma-linolenic acid. It is beneficial in addressing conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and helps manage various symptoms like cramping and chest pain during PMS. Its therapeutic properties stem from its active components’ effect on immune cells, enhancing overall health, and it’s particularly advantageous for women experiencing menopause.
Read More
2
No improvement noted
6 people found this helpful
Despite numerous positive reviews about evening primrose oil, I found it didn’t help with my rheumatoid arthritis or other health issues. I took this supplement alongside others, hoping for improvements, but unfortunately, I did not experience any changes during the entire time of use. I recognise that efficacy can be quite individual, so perhaps it can work for others despite my lack of results.
Read More

Frequently Asked Questions

9
Pain relief noted
4 people found this helpful
I have been using evening primrose oil for a long while, and I can only share positive experiences. At 52, I started taking it for hot flashes, and it certainly helped. Additionally, it provided relief for my knee problems associated with rheumatoid arthritis. It’s noted that gamma-linolenic acid can alleviate the chronic inflammation pain typical of rheumatoid arthritis, making this oil a valuable addition to my routine.
2
No improvement noted
6 people found this helpful
Despite numerous positive reviews about evening primrose oil, I found it didn’t help with my rheumatoid arthritis or other health issues. I took this supplement alongside others, hoping for improvements, but unfortunately, I did not experience any changes during the entire time of use. I recognise that efficacy can be quite individual, so perhaps it can work for others despite my lack of results.
7.5
Reduced symptoms
This oil has greatly improved my monthly cycle and helped lessen the severity of my daily discomfort. Specifically, it alleviates my joint issues linked to rheumatoid arthritis, which I have endured for several years. I feel more relaxed in my daily life thanks to the benefits of evening primrose oil.
8
We examined how supplementation with marine omega-3 fatty acids and evening primrose oil (rich in GLA) could help relieve rheumatoid arthritis symptoms in a randomized trial of 60 patients.

After 12 weeks, those taking either fish oil alone or in combination with evening primrose oil showed remarkable improvements in joint pain and disease activity compared to those who received no supplements.

This suggests that these oils may significantly benefit people dealing with the inflammation and discomfort of rheumatoid arthritis.
8
EPO shows promise for arthritis
We investigated the potential benefits of evening primrose oil (EPO) on rheumatoid arthritis, focusing on its anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties. Using an animal model, we found that EPO normalized body weight and reduced inflammatory markers in rats with arthritis.

Moreover, it showed improvement in joint health and decreased inflammation when used alone or alongside traditional pain relievers like aspirin and celecoxib. While these findings are promising, it’s essential to note that the impact is still being explored in more extensive studies.
We examined the latest insights into herbal therapies for rheumatoid arthritis, including evening primrose oil. Our analysis included 22 studies, revealing moderate evidence suggesting that gamma linolenic acid (GLA), found in evening primrose oil, may ease pain and disability related to RA.

However, while some benefits were noted, the evidence remains mixed and the risk of side effects should not be overlooked. More comprehensive studies are needed to firmly establish its effectiveness for RA treatment.
4
Evening primrose oil shows mild effect
We looked into how evening primrose oil might help relieve symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis in a study involving 40 patients over six months. Patients were split into two groups: one received evening primrose oil, while the other got a placebo.

While there were mild improvements in morning stiffness for those taking evening primrose oil, olive oil actually showed a more significant reduction in pain over time. Therefore, evening primrose oil may offer some benefits, but olive oil revealed notable advantages that shouldn't be overlooked.
7
Evening primrose oil shows symptom relief
We explored the impact of evening primrose oil (EPO) on rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in a double-blind, placebo-controlled study involving 49 patients. Participants took EPO or EPO combined with fish oil, with the aim of reducing reliance on non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

After 12 months, those on EPO noted significant improvements and were able to cut back on their NSAIDs. However, once they switched to placebo, they relapsed, revealing that while EPO may improve symptoms, it doesn't change the underlying disease. Thus, it appears evening primrose oil can help manage RA symptoms and lessen NSAID use, but it doesn’t modify the disease itself.

References

  1. 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. doi:10.3390/nu9040325
  2. 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. doi:10.1007/s10787-014-0200-5
  3. Montserrat-de la Paz S, García-Giménez MD, Ángel-Martín M, Pérez-Camino MC, Fernández Arche A. Long-chain fatty alcohols from evening primrose oil inhibit the inflammatory response in murine peritoneal macrophages. J Ethnopharmacol. 2014;151:131. doi:10.1016/j.jep.2013.10.012
  4. Cameron M, Gagnier JJ, Chrubasik S. Herbal therapy for treating rheumatoid arthritis. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2011. doi:10.1002/14651858.CD002948.pub2
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
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