What is evening primrose?
The use of evening primrose in cultural and traditional settings may differ from concepts accepted by current Western medicine. When considering the use of herbal supplements, consultation with a primary health care professional is advisable. Additionally, consultation with a practitioner trained in the uses of herbal/health supplements may be beneficial, and coordination of treatment among all health care providers involved may be advantageous. Evening primrose is also known as Oenothera biennis, oil of evening primrose (OEP, EPO), scabish, king’s cureall, night willow herb, sun drop, and fever plant. Evening primrose has been used in the treatment of heart and circulatory disease, breast disorders, premenstrual syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, Sjogren’s syndrome, post-viral fatigue syndrome, asthma, diabetic neuropathy, eczema and other skin disorders, zinc deficiency, high cholesterol, and cancer. Evening primrose has not been evaluated by the FDA for safety, effe