Evening primrose oil (EPO) is a source of the essential Omega 6 fatty acid Linoleic Acid (LA). Omega 6 fatty acids are essential in that they cannot be manufactured in the body and must be gained from the diet. So what? you say. You’re probably thinking- 'Omega 6 is everywhere and in many vegetable oils. So why do I need to supplement it?' Yes, this is true- there are many sources of Omega 6 in most people’s diets, however, the Omega 6 LA is most beneficial when the body converts LA to the anti-inflammatory fatty acid Gamma-Linolenic-Acid (GLA).

Why do I need GLA?

GLA helps to reduce inflammation; and EPO is naturally high in GLA. It is the GLA component of EPO that gives it many of its medicinal qualities including being an anti-inflammatory.

Why some of us aren’t getting enough GLA

Normally a minimal amount of GLA is produced internally from the conversion of LA by an enzyme.  Many people have low levels of this enzyme so are very poor converters.

Why do some people have low levels?

Bad lifestyle habits such as too many trans-fatty acids in the diet, smoking and also excessive alcohol consumption can cause low levels of GLA. Just ageing can be a factor. This means many of us are not getting enough of the important anti-inflammatory GLA.

Membranes in the cell

EPO supports membrane phospholipids, including the mitochondrial membrane. This means it can enhance the integrity and fluidity of the cell membrane and also cell structure. The anti-inflammatory effect of EPO has been seen in studies relating to skin disorders.

What EPO means for Skin:

Due to its role in supporting skin health and integrity, EPO has been found to be beneficial in supporting skin’s imperviousness to water. It makes skin stronger. EPO has also been found to be effective for the relief of skin disorders including atopic eczema, atopic dermatitis, itching and inflamed skin and also dryness and roughness. A defect in the function of the enzyme that changes LA to GLA has been seen as the major factor in the development of these skin conditions. Studies have found GLA (supplementing EPO) a safe and effective option to help decrease symptoms associated with atopic dermatitis and eczema and also other skin conditions associated with itching and flaking skin.

How annoying is it to have a constant itch that doesn’t go away?

This is the daily irritation that a person experiencing atopic eczema and dermatitis must go through. In many studies supplementing GLA from EPO reduced skin symptoms associated with discomfort including itching, dryness, flaky skin; and also the reduction of the intensity of these annoying symptoms was also observed. This means an improvement in the quality of life was experienced for those with some very bothersome and distracting skin conditions. Take the irritation out of your skin’s life - with a high-quality EPO supplement today.

Mr Vitamins recommends Southernature Evening Primrose Oil

Vegan EPO 1000mg helps to relief inflammation and pain whilst supporting your heart, skin and more Find out more and shop online for Southernature Evening Primrose Oil here   References: Alternative Medicine Review. (2004) Gamma-Linolenic Acid (GLA) Monograph. Thorn Research Inc. Retrieved from: http://www.altmedrev.com/publications/9/1/70.pdf Accessed 10/01/17 Braun, L., Cohen, M. (2007). Herbs & Natural Supplements. An evidence based guide. 2nd ed. Churchill Livingstone. pp: 291-298. Simon, D. et al. (2014). Linolenic Acid Levels Correlate with Clinical Efficacy of Evening Primrose Oil in Patients with Atopic Dermatitis. Advances in Therapy