Evening primrose is an unusual flower which opens only during the night. For many years, people have been derived different medicinal uses for this plant such as using it to treat inflammation and menstrual cramps. It is also used to reduce the risk of breast cancer especially among women.

The main ingredient that is extracted from evening primrose is its oil. Its fatty acid known as the GLA is rich with healing properties that can cure inflammation. There are also different kinds of skin conditions that are treated by evening primrose. Among these are rashes, swelling, acne, and rosacea.

There are some evening primrose oil side effects that you should be aware of. Using this product can lead to nausea and headaches. It can also result to loose stools and irritable bowel syndrome if your system isn't accustomed to it. Other worse side effects include gastrointestinal problems and bloating. Epileptic patients should steer clear of evening primrose oil as it is known to cause seizures and manic reactions. The same is true with people suffering from schizophrenia. To ensure that your body will not react violently to evening primrose oil, ask your doctor about it.

Pregnant women and lactating mothers are advised to refrain from using evening primrose oil. It might have harmful effects on the fetus although this hasn't been fully explored in research yet. There are also potential negative effects on breast milk, which is why experts discourage nursing mothers from using this supplement. If you have skin conditions, you may use evening primrose topically to treat the affected areas directly. You may also use it for sunburn and wounds, but make sure you don't overdo it. Apply it first around the affected areas and then when they have partially healed, you may put the oil on them.

For evening primrose oil medications, check with your local drugstore if they have one available. You can get ointments and bottled oils over the counter, but make sure it is from a reputable company. Always read the label carefully before using the product. Stick closely to the recommended dosage to avoid any undue complications.