Hidden within this edible plant’s tiny, spherical seeds is a beneficial fat called gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) that has benefits for a wide variety of health conditions. A native of North America, the evening primrose plant was used by Native Americans to make poultices to relieve bruises, heal sores and soothe hemorrhoids. English settlers took evening primrose back to the British Isles, where its roots were eaten as a food and its seeds used in place of poppy seeds. Today, herbalists and medical researchers focus their attention on evening primrose oil (EPO).
How Evening Primrose Oil Works
The human body converts GLA into a chemical that inhibits inflammation-boosting compounds. As a result, EPO may reduce the breast tenderness and swelling that happens in the second half of the menstrual cycle. In two studies, diabetes-related nerve pain was eased with a daily dose of EPO. Research also suggests that EPO can calm the swelling, itching, crusting and redness of eczema and help reduce the use of painkillers in people with rheumatoid arthritis. However, EPO research has not been unanimously positive; some studies have found little benefit, leading researchers to speculate that it may work better for some people than for others.
How to Use Evening Primrose Oil
EPO is usually taken in capsule form. Experts say you may have to take it for several weeks or months to see results. For rheumatoid arthritis pain relief, some experts recommend taking EPO along with fish oil capsules. Follow label instructions or take as professionally prescribed.
Safety First
Since EPO will not stop the progressive joint damage of rheumatoid arthritis, do not use it in place of medication. Skip EPO if you have or are at risk of prostate cancer (it is thought GLA may promote growth of prostate cancer cells). Avoid if you have seizures; there are reports that GLA may trigger seizures in people with seizure disorders. Avoid EPO in pregnancy due to concerns that GLA-rich oils could harm the fetus.
Where to Find Evening Primrose Oil
EPO is available in health food stores, supermarkets and, in some countries, by prescription from your doctor.
Get More Natural Remedies Doctors Approve!
The book Doctors’ Favorite Natural Remedies offers effective ways to treat more than 85 health conditions and evaluates the most commonly used alternative therapies and supplements. Learn more and buy Doctors’ Favorite Natural Remedies here.
from Reader's Digest http://ift.tt/29GD1Xs
No comments :
Post a Comment