As the name implies, evening primrose is just that--a flower that blooms only at night. Although, it only blooms in the nighttime, it can be utilized at any time to treat conditions ranging from whooping cough to digestive ailments and asthma to premenstrual problems. Evening primrose is a diverse medicinal herb.
History & Folklore
Famous poem by John Clare: "Evening Primrose When once the sun sinks in the west, And dewdrops pearl the evening's breast; Almost as pale as moonbeams are, Or its companionable star, The evening primrose opes anew Its delicate blossoms to the dew; And, hermit-like, shunning the light, Wastes its fair bloom upon the night, Who, blindfold to its fond caresses, Knows not the beauty it possesses; Thus it blooms on while night is by; When day looks out with open eye, Bashed at the gaze it cannot shun, It faints and withers and is gone."
Habitat & Cultivation
Originating in North America, evening primrose can be found in many temperate regions around the world. It's a biennial herb that will grow to be less than a foot tall. It has a red-spotted stem, narrow pointed leaves, bright-yellow flowers, and oblong seed pods. It thrives in open areas and is grown commercially for its seed oil.
Uses
Flowers, Leaves, and Bark all three parts have astringent and sedative properties; effective in treating whooping cough
Oil (internal and external uses) when applied externally it's useful in treating eczema, other skin conditions, and breast tenderness; when taken internally it can treat high blood pressure, and prevent platelet clumping; commonly taken for premenstrual problems including tension and abdominal bloating
Other Uses may also be helpful in treating dry eyes, multiple sclerosis, digestive problems, asthma, and used as a poultice to soothe rheumatic disorders
Parts used
Leaves
Stem Bark
Flowers
Seed Oil
Key Actions
Astringent
Sedative
Poultice
Essential oil
Constituents
Essential fatty acids
Linoleic
Gammalinolenic acid
References
- Chevallier, Andrew, FNIMH; Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine - 550 Herbs and Remedies for Common Ailments; 3. Edition 2016; ISBN: 978-0-2412-2944-6; Page 241.
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