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Evening Primrose Oil and Skin Care

Evening primrose oil has been the subject of many studies in relation to skin health. Here are two studies which demonstrate its efficacy in both general skin care and in combating eczema. We highly recommend using Evening Primrose oil in your skin care blends, along with other anti-inflammation healing carrier oils like Tamanu nut, Rosehip Seed, [...]

May 31 2008

Evening primrose oil has been the subject of many studies in relation to skin health. Here are two studies which demonstrate its efficacy in both general skin care and in combating eczema. We highly recommend using Evening Primrose oil in your skin care blends, along with other anti-inflammation healing carrier oils like Tamanu nut, Rosehip Seed, Apricot Kernel and Wheatgerm. Essential oils that are especially important for skin care include Sea Buckthorn, Helichrysum, Lavender, Rosemary Verbenone, and Blue Tansy. Creating your own blends is simple to do – just select oils that apply to your skin’s condition, and mix them in a 1-5% total concentration in the carrier oils of your choice. Fun and easy to do! Here’s the studies on Evening Primrose – note that the first involves the ingesting of Evening Primrose – you may also consider Hemp oil for an even better source of essential fatty acids. Also, for eczema, we carry an essential oil blend called ‘Soothing Skin Extra’ which is based on the medical aromatherapy liturature…

Systemic evening primrose oil improves the biophysical skin parameters of healthy adults.

Muggli R., AdviServ Consulting, Rotbergstrasse 11, CH-4114 Hofstetten, Switzerland.

Biophysical skin parameters are indicators of age-related structural and functional changes in skin tissues. This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study in healthy adults tested the effect of Efamol evening primrose oil [EPO, a gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) containing vegetable oil] on skin moisture, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), redness, firmness, elasticity, fatigue resistance and roughness. Efamol EPO was administered orally in soft gel capsules, 3 x 500 mg b.i.d. for 12 weeks. Measurements were taken at baseline and at weeks 4 and 12. The two groups did not differ at baseline and at week 4. At week 12, however, all measured variables, with the exception of skin redness, were significantly different in the EPO group compared with placebo. Skin moisture, TEWL, elasticity, firmness, fatigue resistance and roughness had significantly improved by 12.9, 7.7, 4.7, 16.7, 14.2 and 21.7%, respectively. The two-sided levels of significance in favor of the EPO regiment ranged between 0.034 and 0.001. These findings lend further support to the notion that GLA is a conditionally essential fatty acid for the skin, i.e. it is unable to synthesize GLA, and therefore depends on preformed GLA for optimal structure and function.

A meta-analysis of randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trials of Efamol evening primrose oil in atopic eczema. Where do we go from here in light of more recent discoveries?

Morse NL, Clough PM. Wassen International Ltd., 14 The Mole Business Park, Leatherhead, Surrey, KT22 7BA.

The global incidence of atopic eczema is escalating. While new methods are becoming available, previous exposure with certain confirmed benefits is still worth investigating as safe and effective therapies. One such method, Efamol (Brand) evening primrose oil (EPO), was proven efficacious in a 1989 meta-analysis of randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials. A decade of further testing and subsequent independent reanalysis of 26 clinical studies including 1207 patients presented here, establishes that Efamol EPO has a simultaneous, beneficial effect on itch/pruritis, crusting, edema and redness (erythema) that becomes apparent between 4 and 8 weeks after the application is initiated. However, the magnitude of this effect is reduced in association with increasing frequency of potent steroid use. This and other confounding variables that are now being reported in the literature may account for historically reported inconsistent patient response. Recent research has uncovered unique complexities in fatty acid metabolism and immune response in the atopic condition beyond those previously reported and may well have identified a subcategory of non-responders and has helped established those that can consistently derive significant benefit. Further research is needed to provide a better understanding of the physiology behind this complex disorder and the beneficial role that fatty acids can play in its development and management. CONCLUSION: Efamol EPO has a simultaneous, beneficial effect on itch/pruritis, crusting, oedema and redness (erythema) that becomes apparent between 4 and 8 weeks after exposure is initiated. However, the magnitude of this effect is reduced in association with increasing frequency of potent steroid use.*

*These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Individual weight loss results will vary. By using this site you agree to follow the Privacy Policy and all Terms & Conditions printed on this site. Void Where Prohibited By Law.Consult with a physician before use if you have a serious medical condition or use prescription medications. A Doctor’s advice should be sought before using this and any supplemental dietary product.

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