OTHER NAMES:

Note: There are several different plants that people call "primrose," but there is only one type of plant that is true primrose. The Oenothera biennis, or evening primrose, seems to have the most medicinal value.

1. Oenothera biennis, evening primrose and fever plant, which contains GLA - omega 6 fatty acids (skin, arthritis, PMS), called "primrose" but not a true primrose or Primula.

2. Then there is a true primrose or primula veris - cowslip or primula officinalis: Primula flos (flower), primula radix(root)—no GLA omega-6 fatty acids.

3. Primula vulgaris (mainly for inflammation and respiratory conditions)-also called common primrose, does not contain GLA omega-6 fatty acids.

HISTORY: Originally cultivated and used by Native Americans

PROPERTIES:

Anodyne (pain relief), antiinflammatory, antipyretic, expectorant, antispasmodic, astringent, sedative, emetic, antihelminthic.

CONSIDERED USES:

Respiratory: True primrose or primula: Asthma, (Primula flos): for catarrh (excessive mucus buildup), congestion, bronchitis, cough

Cardiovascular: Oenothera biennis/evening primrose may help cardiovascular disease, intermittent claudication (arterial flow obstruction in the legs)

Eyes: Oenothera biennis/evening primrose: Dry eye 

Gastrointestinal: Oenothera biennis/evening primrose: Gastric distress, worms, liver problems, hepatitis B, IBS, ulcers

Genitourinary/hormone: Oenothera biennis/evening primrose: Hot flashes, night sweats, PMS symptoms, breast pain, endometriosis, menopause

Musculoskeletal: Oenoth: era biennis/evening primrose and true primrose or primula : Muscle cramps,  osteoarthritis, osteoporosis (taken with calcium and fish oil), osteopenia, psoriatic arthritis. True primrose or primula veris: gout, rheumatic arthritis, 

Neurologic: Oenothera biennis/evening primrose: Diabetic neuropathy (nerve pain), chronic fatigue, Alzheimer’s, multiple sclerosis;  true primrose or primula veris: headaches, calming

Skin: Oenothera biennis/evening primrose: Overall skin care, wound healing, eczema, psoriasis, acne, wrinkles, dry skin, molluscum contagiosum, hair health and hair growth

Mental Health: Oenothera biennis/evening primrose: Stress headaches, ADHD, bipolar (discuss use with healthcare provider)

Cholesterol: Oenothera biennis/evening primrose: May help lower cholesterol (LDL) and raise good cholesterol (HDL)

Cancer: Oenothera biennis/evening primrose: May have supportive benefits during cancer; especially liver cancer. It does not cure cancer.

Other: Oenothera biennis/evening primrose: anticoagulant (blood thinner), obesity, and Raynauds

Side Effects: Headache, nausea, diarrhea, stomach upset, soft stools, acne, increased bleeding, dizziness, headache, decreased seizure threshold (evening primrose), rash, taste changes, weight gain, too much may lead to increased inflammation

Cautions and Contraindications: Bleeding disorders (may increase bleeding), seizure disorders, phenothiazines, blood thinners, and schizophrenia

Forms: Tea, soft gels, oils, creams and lotions, infusions, tinctures

Brand Recommendations:

• Solgar® Evening Primrose Oil 1,300 mg 

    -Also see Evening Primrose

I only recommend herbal and supplement brands that meet high standards for safety, effectiveness, and transparency. I research each product before sharing. Some links—like Fullscript, Nature Made and Life Extensions—are affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission if you buy through them, at no extra cost to you. It helps support this free site. Plus, these links often offer discounts, fast shipping, and helpful reviews.

Doses: 

As directed on the product label. Some clinical and consumer sources describe a wide range of herbal amounts, and many are not supported by strong evidence. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Amounts used in studies vary widely depending on the formulation and purpose. These study amounts are not clinical recommendations and may not apply to consumer products.

The following dosages apply to evening primrose/Oenothera biennis, which contains GLA

• ADHD: 300 mg twice daily 

• onsider taking with fish oil). Some recemmend up to 500 mg twice daily.

• Eczema: 1-1.5 gm twice daily (oral)

• Dry Eye: 300 mg once daily (oral)

• High Cholesterol: 250 mg by mouth twice daily

• Menopause: 440-880 mg by mouth daily or 1-2 gm daily (oral form)

• MS: 600-700 by mouth three times daily

• PCOS: 1 gm by mouth daily (with vitamin D or omega 3's))

• PMS: 3-4 gm daily or 3 gm by mouth starting on day 15 of the menstrual cycle until the end of the cycle (menses begin)

• Raynauds: 3 mg twice a day

• Rheumatoid Arthritis: 2.6 gm by mouth daily

• Neuropathy:  2-4 gm daily

Cold Symptoms: True primrose or primula  (not evening primrose) is used for respiratory symptoms 2-4 gm daily by mouth daily

For additional information about herbal dosing see Epocrates online ($)

*Disclaimer: The material above is for informational purposes only. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure a condition. The uses listed above are tentative; some have or are undergoing research trials, but many are not FDA-approved. It is essential that you investigate these supplements further before deciding to use them. Check interactions and contraindications on sites like Drugs.com or WebMD. Do not attempt to treat a serious condition like liver, kidney problems, high blood pressure, heart, cancer, diabetes, or thyroid issues without discussing it with a healthcare provider first. If you are pregnant, do not use supplements without discussing it with your healthcare provider.