Evening primrose. Medicinal plant 2026
As the name suggests, the evening primrose opens its yellow flowers mainly in the evening – its delicate scent not only enchants us humans, but also attracts many different species of moth for pollination.
The evening primrose is a perennial plant and is native to America, but is now also quite common here. It often grows along roadsides and in meadows, and is also a welcome sight in natural gardens! The seeds, flowers, leaves and even the root of the plant are edible. In the past, evening primrose was often cultivated as a vegetable plant because of its fleshy taproot, which tastes similar to salsify.
Evening primrose oil, which is produced from the plant’s seeds, is a true miracle cure! When applied externally, the oil is very helpful for dry skin and eczema; when taken internally, thanks to the fatty acids it contains, the oil can help maintain healthy gut flora.
Use in folk medicine
- antioxidant properties
- Tannins have an astringent effect and support the skin
- as a complementary treatment for rheumatic conditions
- anti-inflammatory effects
- Vitamin E as a cell-protecting antioxidant
- a good source of omega-6 fatty acids
- beneficial for respiratory conditions
Effect
The effects of evening primrose that have been most thoroughly investigated scientifically relate to evening primrose oil. Several clinical studies and meta-analyses show that gamma-linolenic acid can provide significant relief, particularly in cases of atopic dermatitis. Those affected often have a deficiency in gamma-linolenic acid, which weakens the skin barrier and promotes inflammation. Regular intake of evening primrose oil over several weeks leads to a reduction in itching, dry skin and signs of inflammation.
It is not only helpful to take the pure oil or in capsule form. Faster results for acute symptoms can be achieved by applying the oil or preparations to the affected areas. The impaired skin barrier mentioned earlier is caused by the skin cells’ inadequate production of ‘protective fats’. Gamma-linolenic acid is absorbed through the skin and can be incorporated directly into the skin cells, so that relief is felt within a few hours to a few days.
Even for cycle-related symptoms, evening primrose oil is used. Clinical studies demonstrate a soothing effect on breast pain and premenstrual syndrome (PMS). It is thought to have a regulating influence on prostaglandin synthesis and, consequently, on hormonally induced inflammatory and pain processes.
Evening primrose’s good tolerability, the solid body of research and its versatility make it a valuable ally in both naturopathy and evidence-based medicine.
Recipes featuring evening primrose
How to make your own evening primrose oil
List of ingredients
| Evening primrose seeds |
|---|
| 20 ml almond oil |
ZPreparation:
Grind the evening primrose seeds into a fine powder using a mortar. Add about 20 ml of almond oil and grind thoroughly until a smooth, oily paste forms. Strain the mixture through a coffee filter. Pour the oil into a dark glass bottle and store in the fridge.
Sweet-and-sour pickled evening primrose seeds
List of ingredients
| 30 evening primrose seed capsules |
|---|
| 200 ml apple cider vinegar |
| 100 ml water |
| 1 tbsp honey |
| 1 tsp peppercorns |
| 2 tsp fennel seeds |
Method:
Remove the stems and leaves from the evening primrose seeds and place them in a heatproof jar. Bring the vinegar, water, honey and spices to the boil briefly. Pour the hot mixture over the seeds. Seal the jar and leave to infuse in the kitchen cupboard for at least 2 weeks.
