Derived from the seeds of the evening primrose plant (*Oenothera biennis*), this botanical oil has been employed for decades across diverse domains of natural medicine—ranging from the alleviation of dermatological conditions such as rosacea and atopic dermatitis to the mitigation of chronic physical and mental fatigue syndromes. Its distinctive biochemical composition, abundant in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) and other essential polyunsaturated fatty acids, theoretically positions it as a potential modulator of various physiological pathways. However, despite promising anecdotal reports and its longstanding use in folk medicine, many of its attributed therapeutic benefits lack definitive validation through rigorous clinical trials. This discrepancy underscores the imperative for a meticulous, evidence-based evaluation of existing scientific literature prior to considering its integration into supplementary regimens.
It's a party
Evening primrose is a plant native to North America that can also be found in parts of Asia and Europe. It is known primarily for its oil (EPO) extracted from seeds. However, not only the seeds are its advantage. The whole plant is edible. Flowers can be added to salads, leaves can be eaten as a vegetable, and roots can be prepared similarly to potatoes.
It's an acne oil
Gamma-linolenic acid supports the lipid barrier of the skin and prevents, for example, its dehydration. It also reduces sebum production (overproduction of sebum is the basis of juvenile acne pathogenesis) while moisturizing the skin.
Fertility wax oil
As previously mentioned, wax oil contains predominantly unsaturated fatty acids gamma-linolenic and linoleic. The direct effect of wax oil itself on fertility in humans has not been demonstrated, however, in a study in rats, it was shown that in male births, EPO supplementation increased testosterone levels and had a beneficial effect on potency. However, in cell studies in pregnant women, the effect of gamma linolenic acid on prostaglandin production has been shown, which may also play a role in the process of fertilization and maintenance of pregnancy.
It's cherry oil and it's pregnant
This is not due to its toxicity to the fetus, but only because of caution. The safety of this group of women has not been clearly demonstrated. In 2008, a woman supplemented with the extract of maple leaves and maple oil (500 mg) orally and in the mouth for a week before giving birth in order to prepare the cervix for this process. In a newborn at 17 hours of life, skin changes occurred, selection in the area of the body, limbs and face. Fortunately, after 5 days of symptoms, the procedure disappeared. However, there is some evidence that at such critical times in life as this, for example, it is not worth experimenting.
Does wax oil regulate hormones?
It has been reported that it can be used to alleviate PMS (premenstrual syndrome) as well as menopause. Unfortunately, there are not enough conclusive studies to confirm the effectiveness of the oil in this case.
Coconut oil has side effects
As long as it is considered safe, or at least its toxicity has not been proven, the side effects of applying wax oil have been reported in some cases including headaches, nausea, diarrhea. There is no data on the interaction of EPO with medicines. It is assumed that they may have an adverse effect on anti-inflammatory drugs, corticosteroids, beta-blockers, antipsychotic drugs, anticonvulsants.
