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Potential Evening Primrose Oil Side Effects, Adverse Reactions And Contraindications

Bleeding disorders and low cholesterol

Some evidence suggests that evening primrose oil side effects might include bleeding disorders and lower cholesterol levels.

According to Love to Know Herbs, there have been animal studies where gamma linolenic acid (GLA) has lowered blood pressure, thus suggesting it might not be safe to use together with other blood pressure lowering supplements. But the website states that similar studies in humans have not shown significant changes in blood pressure.

WebMD says that there has been some reports of evening primrose oil causing increased bleeding or bruising. It is thus advised to refrain from using it if you suffer from bleeding disorders or if you are undergoing a surgery soon. Consult your health care provider in this case to make sure you avoid any negative side effects.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

It is advised that you don’t take this oil when pregnant because the possible evening primrose oil side effects in this regard have not been sufficiently studied. Although no extensive research has been conducted on the use of evening primrose oil during lactation, there also is nothing to suggest that it is dangerous during breastfeeding.

The University of Maryland Medical Center actually notes that breast milk contains both LA and GLA, which also are primary elements of evening primrose oil. On the other hand, Love to Know Herbs reports that it may alter the composition of breast milk; there is, however, not really enough information to prove this.

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