Side Effects of evening primrose oil: A Synthesis of Findings from 7 Studies

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This information is not medical advice and is not a substitute for diagnosis or treatment by a physician.Data sources and disclaimers (data limitations, copyright, etc.)The analysis on "Side Effects of evening primrose oil: A Synthesis of Findings from 7 Studies" on this page is based on PubMed data provided by the U.S. National Library of Medicine (NLM). However, NLM does not endorse or verify these analyses.

This analysis is based on research papers included in PubMed, but medical research is constantly evolving and may not fully reflect the latest findings. There may also be biases towards certain research areas.

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Original Abstract of the Article

Major Research Findings

Evening primrose oil has been investigated for its potential benefits in treating various conditions, including cyclical mastalgia, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), and eczema. , , 3 . It has also been studied as a potential treatment for menopausal symptoms, particularly hot flashes. . Some research suggests that evening primrose oil may be effective in promoting cervical ripening before gynecological procedures. , 7 . However, the effectiveness of evening primrose oil for these conditions may vary, and more definitive research is needed to confirm its benefits. 6 .

Reasons for Side Effects

While evening primrose oil is generally considered safe, some individuals may experience side effects. These side effects can vary depending on the dosage, individual sensitivity, and potential interactions with other medications. , 5 .

Common Side Effects

Gastrointestinal

Evening primrose oil can cause gastrointestinal side effects, such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, and indigestion. .

Skin

Some individuals may experience skin reactions to evening primrose oil, including rashes, itching, and dryness. .

Other

Other potential side effects include headache, dizziness, and fatigue. .

Side Effects Management

Gastrointestinal

If gastrointestinal side effects occur, reducing the dosage or temporarily discontinuing evening primrose oil use may be helpful. .

Skin

For skin reactions, reducing the dosage or discontinuing evening primrose oil use may be recommended. Consulting a doctor is also advised. .

Other

If any other side effects occur, consider reducing the dosage or temporarily discontinuing evening primrose oil use. Seeking medical advice is essential. .

Comparison Across Studies

Similarities

Multiple studies have investigated evening primrose oil for various conditions, indicating its potential therapeutic benefits, particularly for cyclical mastalgia, PMS, and eczema. , , 3 .

Differences

The effectiveness of evening primrose oil for these conditions may vary, and more definitive research is needed to establish its efficacy. 6 . Similarly, the occurrence and severity of side effects can differ across studies. 5 .

Cautions for Real-life Application

Consulting a doctor or pharmacist before taking evening primrose oil is essential, especially for individuals who are pregnant or breastfeeding, or who are taking other medications. .

Current Research Limitations

Further research is required to fully understand the effectiveness and safety of evening primrose oil for various conditions. 6 . Additionally, ensuring consistent quality control measures for evening primrose oil products is crucial. 5 .

Future Research Directions

Future research should focus on elucidating the specific mechanisms of action of evening primrose oil, optimizing its dosage and treatment duration, and conducting larger and well-designed clinical trials to establish its efficacy and safety. 6 . Improving quality control measures and standardizing evening primrose oil products is also critical. 5 .

Conclusion

While evening primrose oil holds potential for treating various conditions, it's important to be aware of its potential side effects and to consult with a healthcare professional before using it. Always choose high-quality evening primrose oil products from reputable sources. , 5 .

Literature analysis of 7 papers
Positive Content
6
Neutral Content
1
Negative Content
0
Article Type
0
1
1
2
7
1.

Diet and eczema: a review of dietary supplements for the treatment of atopic dermatitis.

Author: SchlichteMegan J, VandersallAbbey, KattaRajani

Prebiotics for AD
Probiotics for AD
No dietary supplements recommended

There is no evidence to support the use of dietary supplements for the treatment of atopic dermatitis. Probiotics and prebiotics may be effective, but more research is needed to determine the optimal dose and strains.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

2.

Topical nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs versus oil of evening primrose in the treatment of mastalgia.

Author: QureshiS, SultanN

Breast pain relief
Rapid response
Safe treatment
Cost

Topical NSAIDs are safe, effective, rapid, and acceptable for the treatment of cyclical and non-cyclical mastalgia, while oil of evening primrose (OEP) was less effective, had lower acceptability, and higher costs.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

3.

Oral evening primrose oil and borage oil for eczema.

Author: BamfordJoel T M, RaySujoy, MusekiwaAlfred, van GoolChristel, HumphreysRosemary, ErnstEdzard

Eczema treatment

Eczema is a chronic skin condition that is often treated with conventional medical products. This review will examine the use of evening primrose oil (EPO) and borage oil (BO) as complementary alternative treatments for eczema.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Meta-AnalysisA statistical technique that integrates the results of multiple studies to draw more general conclusions about a particular issue.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.
Systematic ReviewA review that systematically collects, evaluates, and integrates relevant research to answer a specific research question.

Language : English

7.

The effect of consuming evening primrose oil on cervical preparation before hysteroscopy: An RCT.

Author: Mansour GhanaeiMandana, AsgharniaMaryam, FarokhfarMaryam, Mohammad Asgari GhalebinSeyed, RafieiElahe, HaryalchiKatayoun

Cervical preparation

This double-blind, randomized controlled clinical trial evaluated the effect of evening primrose oil (EPO) on cervical preparation in women undergoing hysteroscopy. The study found that EPO was effective in preparing the cervix for hysteroscopy compared to a placebo.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

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