What is Evening primrose oil?
Evening primrose oil and borage oil are plant oils rich in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an omega-6 fatty acid.
What it does for skin
The Cochrane review found that neither oral evening primrose oil nor borage oil showed a statistically significant advantage over placebo for eczema.
What the research shows
The review included 19 evening primrose oil studies and 8 borage oil studies, covering 27 studies and 1,596 participants in total.
For evening primrose oil, a meta-analysis of 7 studies showed it failed to significantly increase improvement. Borage oil results could not be pooled because the studies reported outcomes in different ways.
Forms, amounts and limits
We do not recommend these oils for eczema on the basis of this review.
Safety
Ask a clinician before use if you take prescription medicines.
Talk to a doctor or pharmacist before starting any supplement, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have a medical condition or take medicines.
Questions
Does evening primrose oil help eczema?
A Cochrane review found it is not effective for eczema. Standard eczema care from a clinician is better supported.
Sources
General information, not medical advice. Vanu Health does not sell this supplement. Read our terms.