Herb that controls diabetes, cholesterol, joint pains and more

This supplement is a boon for women who experience the trauma of menstrual cramps every month. It is known by its name because its light yellow flowers open at dusk.

The oil of evening primrose is very rich in polysaturated comega-6 fatty acids, which are necessary fatty acids that body needs to complete numerous functions including insulin absorption, regulating the heart, and regulating mood. The body does not manufacture these fatty acids on its own, so they have to be taken as food or diet supplements. Aside from the omega-6 fatty acids, evening primrose oil has linoleic acid and gamma-linolenic acid (“GLA”). Both of these acids are very important and very beneficial to general well-being. GLA accounts for most of the supplement's therapeutic effects.

Eczema: One of the leading uses of evening primrose oil is to treat eczema, an allergic skin condition that may develop if the body has trouble converting fats derived from food into GLA. In a study of 60 people with eczema GLA in evening primrose oil was found to be superior in reducing the itching and oozing of the condition. 3-4 months use of this nutritional supplement helps in alleviating itching and reduce the need for topical steroid creams and drugs with their unpleasant side effects.

Diabetes: In people with diabetes, the GLA in evening primrose oil has been helpful in preventing nerve damage (neuropathy). In people with mild diabetic neuropathy, one year of treatment evening primrose oil reduced numbness and tingling, loss of sensation and other symptoms of the disorder
better than other sources of GLA, suggesting that evening primrose oil may be of value in reversing neuropathy.

Menstrual Disorders: Evening primrose oil can be effective for menstrual disorders such as premenstrual syndrome, menstrual cramps, and endometriosis because of its GLA content. Oil blocks the inflammatory prostaglandins that cause menstrual cramps. It also eases breast tenderness
experienced by women just before periods and to some extent plays a role in reversing infertililty also.

Joint Pains: According to a study, swelling and pain in joint symptoms have been seen to improve when evening primrose oil supplements are used. Acne, muscle pain and rosacea that involve inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis may also be alleviated.

Cholesterol: Evening primrose oil is said to benefit heart patients by lowering blood cholesterol and reducing the risk of blood clots. Evening primrose oil has shown gradual decrease in triglyceride levels by increasing HDL and reducing LDL. Including evening primrose oil supplements can reduce high blood pressure. It's ability to reduce high serum cholesterol and blood pressure may take several weeks to notice results.

Dosage: Many experts recommend buying evening primrose oil that contains a small amount of vitamin E. The recommended therapeutic dose of evening primrose oil is generally 1g three times a day which supplies 240 mg of GLA a day.

Caution: Bloating or abdominal upset is seen in less than 2% of users. Consuming of evening primrose oil with food may lessen this effect. It is recommended to take this with meals to enhance absorption. It is available in the form of capsule, softgel and oil.