Evening
Primrose is a valuable and versatile plant with a wide-range of uses. A finely
ground powder produced from the stem can be used as a facial mask and a poultice
made with the root can be used for bruises. However, it is most widely known
for the oil that is contained in its seeds. The plant is also referred to
as Common Evening Primrose, Tree Primrose and because of its nocturnal blooming,
some call it Evening Star. The primrose oil was known as the "King's
Cure All" in 17th Century England.
Although it may not "cure
all" the oil contains the highest content of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA)
of any food substance. GLA is an essential fatty acid.
Essential fatty acids (EFA's) are necessary for good health and are not produced
by the body, so they must be obtained through diet.
The entire evening primrose plant is edible and is often used in pickles, soups, salads and sautés. Also, a tea can be made from the roots. The best way to obtain EFA's is in pure liquid form. Since heat will destroy the essential fatty acids and create free radical, (refer to Melt issue 2) . Be sure to purchase only cold-pressed processed supplements. It is suggested that the daily requirement for essential fatty acids for an adult are 10% to 20% of their total caloric intake.
The essential fatty acid found in evening primrose oil, GLA, is said to help pre-vent hardening of the arteries, heart disease, premenstrual syndrome, multiple sclerosis, high blood pressure, liver and kidney dysfunction. It also helpful to the metabolism and nervous system and has a positive effect on sex hormone response including the hormones estrogen and testosterone. This fatty acid can also help aid in lowering cholesterol levels, and can be important in treating cirrhosis of the liver.
Many women have found that
primrose oil helps to relieve some unpleasant Menopausal symptoms such as
hot flashes. Women who suffer from breast cancer should consult a doctor before
using primrose oil as it promotes the production of estrogen. Black currant
seed oil could be considered as an
alternative. Evening Primrose oil can usually be found as a tonic or in gel
caplets. The oil is expensive to produce as it takes millions of seeds and
because they are so small, the harvest must be done by hand. For further information,
consult your local herbalist or health food store.
As with any dietary supplement, ask your doctor or pharmacist before you begin a new program.
This article is not a
substitute for medical advice or treatment for any medical
conditions. You should promptly seek professional medical advice if you
have
any concern about your health or physical condition, and you should always
consult your physician before following the recommendations presented here.
 |
 |
 |
|
©
Melt Magazine 2001
|
||