Primrose Oil Side Effects

Primrose oil is extracted from the seeds of the primrose plant, which is also called the evening primrose plant. The reason for this is that evening primrose plant blooms in the evening during the summer season and dies during the day due to exposure to the sunlight. This plant is found in Europe, Canada, North America, and also in certain parts of Asia. In other words, it is found in places which enjoy a temperate climate. The seeds of the winter primrose plant which are almost 5 cm long, are squeezed to take out the oil. This oil is then used in the production of dietary supplements which help in the treatment of various ailments or disorders. Even cosmetic products are made using the primrose oil. Though this oil has been used since several years due to its healing capabilities, there are still certain side effects attached to it. However, before we go into the primrose oil side effects, let us try to know more about its uses as well as heath benefits.

Uses of Primrose Oil

Primrose oil is the main source of an important omega 6 fatty acid which is known as gamma-linoleic acid (GLA). The human body does not have the ability to produce these essential fatty acids, and this makes it important to include this in our daily diet by eating foods that contain GLA. When the GLA enters our body, it gets converted into prostaglandins, which acts as a substitute to certain hormones, thus helping in the smooth functioning of the body. Evening primrose oil is an effective way of treating problems related to the reproductive system in women. Menstrual cramps and mood swings which most women have to suffer during the initial days of their periods can be cured with the help of primrose oil supplements. Women who suffer from premenstrual syndrome can also find relief with the use of primrose oil supplement. It is also said to be an effective way of treating the symptoms of women suffering from fibrocystic breasts, which include pain, inflammation, and tenderness in the breasts.

Skin problems like eczema can be treated well with the help of primrose oil. One of the various reasons for eczema is the inability of the body in converting fats into essential fatty acids. In such cases, the body does not receive the GLA which it requires, giving rise to the various symptoms of eczema like inflammation, itching, flaking, dryness, etc. Hence, it is important to take primrose oil supplements which will supply the necessary GLA directly into the body. Symptoms caused by other skin problems like acne and rosacea can also be treated with the help of primrose oil. As primrose oil helps in controlling the blood pressure level as well as cholesterol, it indirectly aids in preventing the occurrence of heart diseases. The anti-inflammatory properties of primrose oil is useful for curing inflammatory diseases like arthritis, asthma, etc. Recent studies have revealed that winter primrose oil is also beneficial for treating chronic fatigue syndrome, however, there is not much evidence for proving this point. Read more on primrose oil benefits.

Primrose Oil Side Effects

Primrose oil is available in the form of pills as well as in the liquid form. The dosage and the way one has to use it will depend upon the the ailment that the person is facing. Though benefits of evening primrose oil are many, sometimes people can also suffer from its side effects. Although these side effects are very rare and not very severe, it is important for an individual to know about the side effects of evening primrose oil before using it.

• People who take primrose oil supplements may complain of headache and nausea. Other than this, they may also suffer from certain gastrointestinal problems like bloating and passing of loose stools. These side effects of primrose oil are not very dangerous and will not stay for a long time. However, it is important to consult the doctor if any of these symptoms persist.
• Another evening primrose side effect may include allergies caused by any of the ingredients of primrose oil. Therefore, before you take the supplement, carefully check the label to ensure that there is nothing in it that can cause allergic reactions in you.
• Primrose oil side effects can also be caused due to the intervention of other medications. For instance, schizophrenic patients who take 'phenothiazine epilepogenic drugs' have a high risk of developing temporal lobe epilepsy due to the consumption of evening primrose oil. Seizure can be caused when a person taking primrose oil is given anesthesia. Therefore, people who are going to have a surgery should stop using primrose oil supplements 2 - 3 weeks before the date of the actual operation.
• Pregnant women and those who are breast feeding are recommended to stay away from primrose oil, as it is believed to be a little risky. Evening primrose may induce early labor and may also affect the production of breast milk. However, there in no evidence on whether primrose oil is dangerous for the unborn baby.

Though you know about the evening primrose oil side effects, it is not actually possible to avoid the use of primrose oil supplements, because they are necessary for your health. Hence, the only solution for this is to take the necessary precautions to prevent the occurrence of any side effect. If you experience any kind of uneasiness after taking primrose oil supplements, do not delay in consulting your health provider immediately for the necessary treatment.