Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 1

Evening primrose oil (EPO) has been popularly used as a complementary treatment for eczema (atopic dermatitis) due to its high content of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an omega-6 fatty acid believed to have anti-inflammatory properties. The rationale behind its use is that individuals with eczema may have impaired fatty acid metabolism, leading to reduced levels of GLA, which in turn affects skin barrier function and inflammation.

Historically, EPO has been promoted for eczema based on these theories, and it has seen widespread use, particularly in the 1980s and 1990s. However, scientific studies have not consistently supported its efficacy. Several placebo-controlled trials and systematic reviews, including a 2013 Cochrane review, have concluded that EPO is no more effective than placebo in improving eczema symptoms such as itching, scaling, or overall severity. Regulatory agencies, such as the UK’s Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), have also stated that EPO should not be used to treat eczema due to the lack of robust evidence.

In summary, while the use of evening primrose oil for eczema is grounded in plausible biological mechanisms and has been supported by tradition and early studies, high-quality scientific evidence does not validate its effectiveness. Its evidence rating is low, reflecting the lack of consistent clinical benefit in well-conducted trials.

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Pure Encapsulations E.P.O. 500 mg
Pure Encapsulations E.P.O. 500 mg