Evening Primrose Oil

Evening primrose oil (EPO) is obtained from the seeds of the evening primrose flower. It seems to be a popular treatment for a variety of conditions. Examples of these conditions are premenstrual tension and rheumatoid arthritis.

Is evening primrose oil safe to take if I have epilepsy?

There is conflicting advice about the safety of evening primrose oil (EPO) for people with epilepsy.

It is suggested that EPO can make people with epilepsy more likely to experience seizures. This is because EPO contains gamma-linolenic acid. Gamma-linolenic acid is a fatty acid, thought to stimulate the production of a hormone-like compound called prostaglandin. Prostaglandin can lower a person’s epileptic seizure threshold, making them more likely to have a seizure.

Recent findings suggest that EPO is not a trigger of seizures *

Should I take evening primrose oil?

Over the years a number of people have contacted Epilepsy Action to report that their seizures have increased, or returned, after taking evening primrose oil (EPO). On the other hand more recent findings suggest that EPO doesn’t pose a risk to people with epilepsy.

You will want to decide for yourself if the possible benefits of taking EPO will outweigh any possible risks EPO may pose if you have epilepsy.

EPO can also be found in products such as bath lotion and hand cream. Because they contain a very small amount of EPO, these products should not pose any risk for people with epilepsy.

Starflower oil

As starflower oil also contains gamma-linolenic acid, the information on evening primrose oil would also apply to starflower oil.

Before taking evening primrose oil and starflower oil

Epilepsy Action would advise anyone with epilepsy wishing to take evening primrose oil or starflower oil, to discuss the matter with their doctor first.

*Author: BK Pure
Title: The safety of evening primrose oil in epilepsy
Publication: Prostaglandins Leukotrines and Essential Fatty Acids
Date: August 2007