Common Evening Primrose
Oenothera biennis
Oenothera biennis, commonly known as evening primrose, is a traditional plant with roots in various herbal practices. Its seeds and oil have been traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation, though specific uses vary across different cultures and are not extensively documented. Scientific evidence indicates that the oil from Oenothera biennis seeds possesses strong antioxidant properties and selective antimicrobial activity against certain bacteria; however, further in vivo studies are needed to confirm these findings. The plant has also shown promise in improving cognitive performance and reducing brain inflammation and amyloid-beta plaque accumulation in 5xFAD mice models, though more research is required for broader applications. Notably, no major safety issues or drug interactions have been recorded, but the limited scientific data means that further investigation into its efficacy and potential uses is warranted.
- Best evidence
- D
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- The oil from Oenothera biennis seeds showed strong antioxidant capacity and selective antimicrobial activity against certain bacteria, but further in vivo studies are required.
- The study identified 5 to 14 polyphenols, including 7 new flavonoids, in extracts from Oenothera biennis collected from different regions.
- Oral administration of evening primrose leaf extract improved cognitive performance and reduced neuroinflammation in 5xFAD transgenic mice.
- This study identified a new strain of vanilla distortion mosaic virus and a novel gynura bicolor maculavirus in Oenothera biennis, causing chlorotic symptoms.
Frequently asked questions
What is Common Evening Primrose?
Common Evening Primrose (Oenothera biennis) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What does the scientific evidence say about Common Evening Primrose?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Common Evening Primrose; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: The oil from Oenothera biennis seeds showed strong antioxidant capacity and selective antimicrobial activity against certain bacteria, but further in vivo studies are required.
How strong is the evidence for Common Evening Primrose?
The strongest finding for Common Evening Primrose carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Common Evening Primrose safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Common Evening Primrose in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Common Evening Primrose interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Common Evening Primrose in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Common Evening Primrose?
Common Evening Primrose is also known as: Ослинник двулетний, Onagre bisannuelle.
Is Common Evening Primrose a proven treatment?
No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.
Sources
- T2 A Comparative Analysis of the Polyphenolic Content and Identification of New Compounds from Oenothera biennis L. Species from the Wild Flora. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Coinfection of Gynura bicolor with a New Strain of Vanilla Distortion Mosaic Virus and a Novel Maculavirus in China. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Phytochemical Analysis of Lipid Composition and Biological Activities in the Seeds of Evening Primrose from Bulgaria. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Oral administration of evening primrose leaf extract improves cognitive impairment in 5xFAD transgenic mice. literature abstract metadata