The Highlights
- Evening Primrose Oil Lore and Legend
- What’s in Evening Primrose Oil and why is so good for skin?
- All things Free Lion with powerfully healing Evening Primrose Oil
Evening Primrose Oil has been valued for centuries by Indigenous peoples in North America and later adopted globally for its healing properties. This light, easily absorbed oil is a game-changer for skin health, especially for irritated skin conditions—from acne to eczema, psoriasis and rosacea. Its anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties soothe breakouts and support long-term skin health, promoting elasticity and preventing future blemishes for radiant, healthy skin!
Evening Primrose Oil Lore and Legend
Evening Primrose oil has a rich history of use in various ancient cultures around the world. This native North American plant was highly valued by Indigenous peoples long before it became a thing in modern herbal medicine. It’s is named for its yellow flowers that bloom in the evening after sunset until the early morning.
Native American peoples used various parts of the evening primrose plant for a wide range of ailments. The seeds were pressed to extract oil, which was then used to treat wounds, skin conditions, and as a poultice for bruises. The roots and leaves were also employed in traditional remedies for gastrointestinal issues, respiratory conditions, and to alleviate pain from injuries. Evening primrose was particularly valued for its ability to help wound healing and reduce inflammation.
When European settlers arrived in North America, they observed the indigenous use of Evening Primrose and began to adopt its applications. By the 17th century, Evening Primrose had immigrated to Europe, where it was quickly incorporated into folk medicine. It became known as "King's Cure-All" due to its reputed effectiveness in treating a variety of conditions, including digestive issues, sore throats, and skin ailments.
Evening Primrose oil travelled with Europeans and was also incorporated into medicinal practices in other parts of the world. Traditional Chinese medicine and Ayurveda adopted the oil, using it for its ability to regulate and address issues associated with circulation, inflammation, the female reproductive system, the respiratory and the nervous systems. Similarly, in parts of Africa, Evening Primrose was utilized particularly in treating skin conditions and wounds.
I recently read a book called Blind Faith in which the author describes how he reversed macular degeneration in his retina. Part of his protocol includes taking 4 g daily of evening primrose oil, for omega 6 fatty acids) to oxygenate the cells.
What’s in Evening Primrose Oil and why is so good for skin?
Evening Primrose oil is valued for its supply of healthy fats, specifically the omega-6 fatty acids. It has two types of omega-6-fatty acid, including linoleic acid or LA (60%–80% of its fats) and gamma-linoleic acid or GLA (8%–14% of its fats). Oh, those lovely Omega 6’s! The oil is light and easily absorbed by skin, making it a rock star for acne and break-out prone skin, including pimples related to hormone changes (PMS or menopause related) or diet changes.
Its anti-inflammatory, wound healing and skin repairing properties can not only help soothe acne, it can help support long term skin health by actively helping to prevent future breakouts. At the same time, those same fatty acids help sustain Skin’s elasticity and softness. Yay, holistic health and plant synergy!
It has some Oleic Acids (Omega 9’s), which have antioxidant properties that help skin maintain its soft suppleness and elasticity. At the same time, these help strengthen the skin barrier —enough protection for Oily an T-Zone skin, Normal, Dry and Irritated Skin needs a little more barrier protection from Oleic acid. So we add other oils high in Omega 9’s to our formulations for these skin types to support Evening Primrose Oil in working its magic.
Palmitic acid, the most common saturated fatty acid, has emollient properties that will soften skin without leaving a sticky residue. Also provides fab, light moisturizing for Oily, break-out prone or T-zone skin.
Stearic acid has properties that help eliminate dirt sweat and excess serum from skin. Oily skin thanks you. It also helps soften and protect skin. All other skin types thank you, too.
All things Free Lion with powerfully healing Evening Primrose Oil
Evening Primrose offers a time-tested approach to skincare for those with normal, balanced skin. That’s why I put it at the core of our Face Chai for Oily Skin. It is the second ingredient (after Hemp Seed Oil) in the Facial Oils for Oily Skin, due to its healing and anti-inflammatory properties, ease of absorption, ability to balance sebum production, moisturize without clogging pores, and help control break outs.
But no skin type is left out of the healing power of Evening Primrose oil. I’ve included it in all the Face Chai Facial Oils and Moisturizing formulas, combined with other oils to provide holistic, balance and protection.
Evening Primrose Oil is also featured in our Irritated Skin Balm and Uber Rich Body Butter for its skin repairing properties.
I have deep appreciation for the Evening Primrose plant and what it can do for your skin. Generations of indigenous peoples’ wisdom can’t be wrong. Whether used on the face as part of daily skin care, or used for repair, deep nourishment, and protection, incorporating Evening Primrose Oil into your skincare routine can help your skin look and feel vibrant, healthy and smooth.