Botanical Library
Evening Primrose
Nutrition tradition
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At a glance
Where it's from
Native to North America; naturalized in Europe.
Look & taste
A yellow wildflower that opens at dusk; the seed oil is used. Mild, oily
Signature compounds
Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an omega-6 fatty acid.
Traditionally used for
A traditional North American plant, now valued for its GLA-rich seed oil.
In Canada, we can say...
Source of essential fatty acids, omega-6 and linoleic acid (LA) for the maintenance of good health.
Did you know?
Its flowers open in the evening - sometimes visibly, within minutes - to attract night pollinators.
History & natural history
Used by Indigenous North Americans; the seed oil became popular for women's health.
What we're actually allowed to say
🇨🇦 Health Canada
✓ Permitted: Source of essential fatty acids, omega-6 and linoleic acid (LA) for the maintenance of good health.
How to use it
As a seed-oil softgel.
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Request Evening Primrose →Side effects & safety
Generally well tolerated. Check with a practitioner if pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking medication.
A note on how to read this page. Traditional (TCM / Ayurveda) and holistic notes are cultural and historical context, offered for education — not medical advice or health claims. Health Canada's permitted claims reflect what regulators have assessed. Emerging research is early, and not a promise of results. Nothing here is intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Always talk to your (or your pet's) health professional before starting a supplement.