What is the recommended dosage for Evening Primrose Oil?

General: 500-1,000 mg/day; Eczema Skin Health: 1,000-3,000 mg/day (providing 80-300 mg GLA)

What are the side effects of Evening Primrose Oil?

Potential side effects include: Mild gastrointestinal discomfort, Headache (rare), May lower seizure threshold (theoretical).

What is evening primrose oil and how may it support skin health?

Evening primrose oil is rich in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an omega-6 fatty acid that is a precursor to anti-inflammatory prostaglandins. GLA deficiency has been proposed as a factor in atopic dermatitis. Some clinical studies suggest evening primrose oil may improve skin moisture and reduce itching in eczema, though results are mixed.

What dosage of evening primrose oil has been studied for skin conditions?

Clinical trials have used 2–6 grams of evening primrose oil per day, providing 160–480 mg of GLA. Studies for atopic dermatitis typically used 3–6 grams daily for 8–16 weeks. A Cochrane review found insufficient evidence to recommend it for eczema, though individual responses may vary.

What are the potential side effects of evening primrose oil?

Common side effects include headache, digestive upset, and nausea. Evening primrose oil may lower the seizure threshold and should be avoided by individuals with epilepsy. It may increase bleeding risk with anticoagulants. Pregnant women should avoid it due to potential cervical ripening effects. May interact with blood pressure medications.

Evening Primrose Oil

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Also known as: EPO, Oenothera biennis Oil, GLA Oil

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Evening primrose oil is a rich source of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA, 7-14%), an omega-6 fatty acid metabolized to anti-inflammatory DGLA and prostaglandin E1. A Cochrane review found insufficient evidence overall, but some individual RCTs showed improvement in eczema itch and dryness.

How It Works

Rich source of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA, 7-14%), an omega-6 fatty acid metabolized to anti-inflammatory dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid (DGLA) and prostaglandin E1; supports skin barrier lipid synthesis and may modulate atopic inflammation.

Evidence For Conditions

Condition	Grade	Studies	Participants
Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)	C	12	800	View →

Side Effects

Mild gastrointestinal discomfort
Headache (rare)
May lower seizure threshold (theoretical)

Drug & Supplement Interactions

Anticoagulants (may have mild antiplatelet effects)
Phenothiazines and anticonvulsants (may lower seizure threshold)
NSAIDs (may have additive GI effects)

Always inform your healthcare provider about all supplements you take.

Related Ingredients

Borage Oil Ceramides Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Quick Facts

Dosage: General: 500-1,000 mg/day; Eczema_Skin_Health: 1,000-3,000 mg/day (providing 80-300 mg GLA)
Forms: softgel capsule liquid
Natural Sources: Evening primrose seeds (Oenothera biennis)
Upper Limit: Not established; generally well-tolerated up to 6,000 mg/day
Best Time: With meals for better absorption

Evidence Summary

Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis) C

FDA Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The products and information on this website are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The evidence grades presented are based on our analysis of published peer-reviewed research and do not constitute medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.