Evening Primrose Flower

(Western Herb)

Oenothera biennis

The Evening Primrose flower is also known as Tree Primrose, Sundrop, German Rampion, Evening Star and King’s Cure-all.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION AND INFORMATION:

The Evening primrose flower is a biennial plant that produces little yellow, lemon-scented flowers that bloom for only one evening and then wither and die. The ripened seeds from this plant are used to make Evening Primrose Oil, which is an excellent source of the omega-6 essential fatty acid.

Evening Primrose Oil is a very nourishing, emollient, soothing, healing oil when added to creams. It is found east of the Rocky mountains to the Atlantic ocean and was naturalized in Britain. It grows in open areas of poor sandy soil, such as embankments, roadsides, dry meadows and old fields.

The Evening primrose flower was cultivated in England and Germany for its large taproots, which they boiled as a vegetable. The roots have a nutty flavor similar to parsnips with just a hint of pepper.

TARGET AILMENTS:

Take internally for:

* allergic dermatitis

* rheumatoid arthritis

* endometriosis

* eczema

* psoriasis

* premenstrual syndrome

* reducing breast tenderness associated with the menstrual cycle

* gastro-intestinal disorders

* whooping cough * slowing the progression of diabetic neuropathy

* weight loss

* brittle hair and fingernails

PREPARATIONS: Evening primrose oil is available in capsule and liquid form in health food stores.

Evening primrose supplements must be taken regularly for at least a month before their beneficial effects may be noticed.

Parts used: Leaves, seeds, oil

Collection: The leaves of the evening primrose plant can be collected in the summer and used fresh. The seeds are harvested when they ripen in late summer.

Constituents: Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), omega 6 essential fatty acid

Actions: Anti-inflammatory, immune-supporting, astringent, sedative

SAFETY AND SIDE EFFECTS:

* Too much evening primrose oil could possibly cause headaches, skin rashes, and nausea. If this happens, either lower the dosage or discontinue use.