Skip to content
Back to Eczema & Atopic Dermatitis

ingestible · for eczema & atopic dermatitis

Evening Primrose Oil (Oral)

Reviewed by the Nimbera editorial team · Last updated May 2026

Bamford et al. 2013 Cochrane Database Syst Rev (PMID 23633319) - Systematic review of 19 RCTs (1,596 participants) found oral evening primrose oil did not significantly improve global eczema symptoms vs placebo; physician-rated MD -3.26 (95% CI -6.96 to 0.45) and patient-rated MD -2.22 (95% CI -10.48 to 6.04) were both non-significant.$15-25/month

How to use

Standard studied dose is 500 mg capsules taken 2-4 times daily (1-4 g/day total) with food. Allow at least 8-12 weeks of consistent use before evaluating effect, as fatty acid incorporation into cell membranes takes time.

How it works

Evening primrose oil is rich in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an omega-6 fatty acid. People with atopic dermatitis may have reduced activity of delta-6-desaturase, the enzyme that converts linoleic acid to GLA. Supplementation bypasses this step and may reduce pro-inflammatory arachidonic acid metabolites, though clinical evidence has not confirmed this theoretical benefit.

Where to buy

Nature's Way EfaGold Evening Primrose 1,300 mg (~$18 / 60 softgels), NOW Evening Primrose Oil 500 mg (~$12 / 100 softgels), Barleans Organic Evening Primrose Oil (~$22 / 120 softgels). Available at health food stores and online. Look for standardized GLA content (8-10%).

Typical cost: $15-25/month

Safety notes

May interact with blood-thinning medications (warfarin, aspirin, NSAIDs). Can lower seizure threshold - avoid if taking phenothiazine antipsychotics or with epilepsy. May cause headache, nausea, or GI upset at higher doses. Not recommended during pregnancy without medical supervision. Based on current evidence, should not replace proven treatments.

Drug & supplement interactions

  • Always tell your doctor or pharmacist about any supplements you take.
  • Interactions can occur with prescription medications, blood thinners, and immunosuppressants.
  • Herbal remedies can affect how the body absorbs or metabolises drugs.
  • Check drugs.com interactions checker before starting.

Clinical source

Bamford 2013 - Cochrane Database Syst Rev (PMID 23633319)

This information is compiled from primary clinical literature and is for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Read our full disclaimer.