by Jackie Hart, MD
Q: Is evening primrose oil beneficial for inflammation of the joints and muscles? I have been taking this supplement for two weeks and my condition seems to have improved.
A: Some scientific evidence shows that evening primrose oil (EPO), a supplement rich in essential fatty acids, can help reduce joint inflammation. EPO, like black currant seed oil (BCSO) and borage seed oil, contains high levels of a substance called gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an omega-6 essential fatty acid. Most omega-6 fatty acids, such as arachidonic acid, increase inflammation. However, GLA actually reduces inflammation in laboratory and animal studies.
Based on positive signs from research in test tubes and on animals, a few clinical trials in people have been conducted as well. Preliminary results suggest that people with rheumatoid arthritis may have decreased swelling, pain, and morning stiffness from supplementing their diets with plant seed oils rich in GLA. Theoretically, other conditions causing joint inflammation may improve by using one of these dietary supplements as well.
Make sure to tell your doctor that you are using or thinking of using EPO or the other oils. EPO products should be standardized to contain 8% GLA and the dose usually recommended is up to 3 grams per day.
Q: Is evening primrose oil beneficial for inflammation of the joints and muscles? I have been taking this supplement for two weeks and my condition seems to have improved.
A: Some scientific evidence shows that evening primrose oil (EPO), a supplement rich in essential fatty acids, can help reduce joint inflammation. EPO, like black currant seed oil (BCSO) and borage seed oil, contains high levels of a substance called gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an omega-6 essential fatty acid. Most omega-6 fatty acids, such as arachidonic acid, increase inflammation. However, GLA actually reduces inflammation in laboratory and animal studies.
Based on positive signs from research in test tubes and on animals, a few clinical trials in people have been conducted as well. Preliminary results suggest that people with rheumatoid arthritis may have decreased swelling, pain, and morning stiffness from supplementing their diets with plant seed oils rich in GLA. Theoretically, other conditions causing joint inflammation may improve by using one of these dietary supplements as well.
Make sure to tell your doctor that you are using or thinking of using EPO or the other oils. EPO products should be standardized to contain 8% GLA and the dose usually recommended is up to 3 grams per day.