Multiple sclerosis, evening primrose

One study of evening primrose oil use in persons with Raynaud s phenomenon indicated some antiplatelet effect of evening primrose oil (Belch et al. 1985). Two other studies, however, one in multiple sclerosis patients and a second in patients with hypertriglyceridemia, indicated no effects on platelet function (Boberg et al. 1986 McGregor et al. 1989). 

Oil obtained from Oenothera biennis or O. lamar-kiana is designated as evening primrose oil. Interest in this oil has developed in recent years because of its content of y-linolenic acid (18 3 A6,9,12). It is claimed that the dietary intake of this highly unsaturated oil is beneficial in combatting certain diseases, e.g. multiple sclerosis (Lovell etaL, 1981 Horrobin, 1982 Tudge, 1981). The seeds are grown in the United States of America, Europe, Israel and New Zealand. Between 100 and 150 tonnes of oil is probably produced per annum (1984). Oil content of seed is 22-28%. Alternative sources of y-linolenic acid have been reviewed (Wolf et al., 1983). 

Aromatherapy can apparently help patients with multiple sclerosis, especially for relaxation, in association with many other changes in the diet and also use of conventional medicines (Barker, 1994). French basil, black pepper, and true lavender in evening primrose oil with borage oil was used to counteract stiffness and also to stimulate this mixture was later changed to include relaxing and sedative oils such as Roman chamomile, ylangylang, and melissa. 

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