Homers Herbs

What can we help you with?
< All Topics
Print

Evening Primrose (Oenothera biennis)

Botanical Information

  • Family: Onagraceae
  • Common Names: Evening Primrose, Common Evening Primrose
  • Parts Used: Seeds, oil, leaves, roots

Description

Evening primrose (Oenothera biennis) is a biennial herb native to North America, recognized for its vibrant yellow flowers that bloom in the evening. The plant is widely used for its oil-rich seeds, which contain gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an essential fatty acid that supports hormonal balance, skin health, and inflammation modulation.

Historical and Traditional Uses

  • Used by Indigenous North American tribes for wound healing, respiratory support, and skin conditions.
  • Employed in Western herbalism for menstrual irregularities and menopausal symptoms.
  • Traditionally used for joint pain, eczema, and inflammation.
  • The root was consumed as a food source and mild expectorant.

Constituents

  • Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA)
  • Linoleic acid
  • Flavonoids
  • Phenolic compounds
  • Tannins
  • Mucilage

Actions

  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Hormone-balancing
  • Emollient
  • Astringent
  • Nervine
  • Antioxidant

Medicinal Uses

1. Hormonal Balance:
Evening primrose oil is used to support menstrual health, ease PMS symptoms, and alleviate menopausal discomfort.

2. Skin Health:
Applied topically or taken internally for eczema, acne, psoriasis, and dry skin conditions.

3. Joint and Inflammatory Support:
Used to relieve arthritis, joint stiffness, and inflammatory conditions.

4. Cardiovascular Health:
May help regulate cholesterol levels and support healthy blood circulation.

5. Nervous System Support:
Supports nerve function and may be beneficial for conditions such as neuropathy and anxiety.

Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea from Leaves & Flowers):

  • 1-2 tsp of dried leaves per cup of hot water. Steep for 10-15 minutes. Drink up to twice daily.

Seed Oil (Internal Use):

  • 500-1,500 mg daily, taken as a supplement.

Poultice (Topical Use):

  • Crushed fresh leaves applied to minor wounds, burns, and irritated skin.

Tincture:

  • 2-5 ml taken up to 3 times daily.

Precautions and Contraindications

  • Pregnancy and Lactation: Consult a healthcare provider before use.
  • Bleeding Disorders: May have mild blood-thinning effects; use cautiously with anticoagulant medications.
  • Seizure Disorders: High doses may lower seizure threshold; avoid in individuals with epilepsy.

Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

  • Traditional Western Herbalism: Cooling and moistening; supports skin, nervous system, and hormonal balance.
  • Traditional Indigenous Medicine: Used for wound healing and as a general tonic.
  • Ayurveda: Primarily balances Pitta and Vata, but excessive use may increase Kapha.

Combinations

  • For Hormonal Support: Combine with chasteberry and dong quai.
  • For Skin Healing: Combine with calendula and burdock root.
  • For Joint and Inflammatory Support: Combine with turmeric and ginger.

Harvesting and Storage

  • Harvesting: Seeds are collected when mature; leaves and flowers are harvested during the growing season.
  • Drying: Air dry leaves and flowers in a shaded, well-ventilated area.
  • Storage: Store dried plant material and seed oil in airtight containers away from light and heat.

Modern Research

Studies confirm Oenothera biennis’s anti-inflammatory, skin-protective, and hormone-balancing properties, reinforcing its traditional applications.

Evening Primrose remains a valuable herb in both traditional and modern herbal medicine, particularly for hormonal balance, skin health, and inflammation modulation.