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Known also as “The Kings Cure-All”, Evening Primrose is a majestic plant. With lemon scented leaves and gorgeous yellow flowers, the Evening Primrose is as pretty as its name. While the whole plant is edible, it is the Primrose’s fruit seeds that hold its beauty. Within each seed, hides an abundance of nutrients that the human body needs, but cannot produce.
In the early 1930’s, science found that the oil of the Primrose plant contained high levels of linoleic acids. This acid is an ingredient necessary for proper human body functions. Once linoleic acid is ingested from the plant, the body uses it to create GLA, or gamma linolenic acid. The new GLA is then classified as an Omega-6.
While there is much talk centered on the miraculous nature of Omega-3’s, it is important to note that Omega-6 acts as its counterpart. For optimum health, both fatty acids must be present and in proper proportion to each other. Studies have shown that when levels of Omega-6 are much higher than that of Omega-3, serious health issues can arise.
In a recent article by the University of Maryland, it was noted that the majority of Western civilization has entirely way too much Omega-6 in their diet. It also declared that proportion discrepancies between Omega-3 and 6 were to blame for increased rates of heart disease and cancer.
When the ratio between the two fatty acids is correct, they combine to maintain a variety of functions within the body. Functions that are sustained by the mixture include:
- Hair and skin growth
- Reproductive systems
- Metabolism
- Healthy bones
- Brain development
With the understanding that harmony must exist between the two fatty acids and that most individuals are unbalanced on the side of Omega-6, it begs the question: What need is there to use Evening Primrose oil?
The oil has only one verified medicinal use and that is even questioned. Evening Primrose is utilized in the treatment of symptoms associated with skin conditions such as eczema. It has been established that when taken by mouth, the oil can reduce itchiness of the skin.
In truth, several studies have shown there is conclusive evidence to suggest that Evening Primrose oil has any verifiable benefits other than its levels of Omega-6.
Among unconfirmed claims for the use of Evening Primrose oil is:
- PMS (Pre-menstrual syndrome)
- Bronchitis
- Diabetes
- Cancer
- Arthritis
While tests show some possibility as to its uses, there is too little information to accurately assign Evening Primrose oil as quality dietary supplement.
Simply put, Evening Primrose has been marketed for years as an excellent source of nutrition and as an herbal alternative to modern medicine. Many unsuspecting consumers have bought into the idea that there is a pressing need for more Omega-6 in their diets.
With a little research it is easy to see that Evening Primrose, while lovely, serves no remarkable service in dietary nutrition. Its elements are easily found in everyday food sources such as turkey, chicken, and margarine. Most individuals have no need to supplement Omega-6 as they already have an excess within the body.