Herbs

Evening primrose oil

Also called: EPO, primrose oil

Seed oil rich in GLA, an omega-6 fat.

Why people take it
Eczema, breast pain, PMS, menopause.
What the evidence says
Did not help eczema in good trials; little evidence elsewhere.
How it is usually taken
Usually 500 mg to 3 g a day.
Be careful
May add to blood thinners; caution with seizure disorders.
Medicines it can interact with
May add to blood thinners; may lower the seizure threshold with phenothiazines.

Other herbs

EchinaceaElderberryGarlic extractGingerPeppermint oilMilk thistleSaw palmettoSt John's wortValerianChamomileLemon balmPassionflowerKavaRhodiolaGinkgoMoringaFenugreekCinnamonBlack seedLicorice

Common questions

What is Evening primrose oil?

Seed oil rich in GLA, an omega-6 fat.

Why do people take Evening primrose oil?

Eczema, breast pain, PMS, menopause.

Does Evening primrose oil work?

Did not help eczema in good trials; little evidence elsewhere.

How much Evening primrose oil do people take?

Usually 500 mg to 3 g a day.

Is Evening primrose oil safe?

May add to blood thinners; caution with seizure disorders.

Does Evening primrose oil interact with medicines?

May add to blood thinners; may lower the seizure threshold with phenothiazines.

Sources and further reading

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu.

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For information only, not medical advice. Supplements are not medicines: they are not tested and approved like drugs before they are sold, and they can interact with medicines. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before you start one, especially if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, take regular medicines, or have kidney, liver or heart disease.