Evening primrose oil for menopause and hot flashes

Some of the worst symptoms of menopause are hot flashes, which cause discomfort and unpleasant sensations. Currently, there are various herbal preparations and supplements aimed at relieving hot flashes in women. Evening primrose oil for menopause is one of these remedies, but does it work?

Evening Primrose Oil and Menopause

Many of the properties of evening primrose oil have effects on the generation of female hormones and the reproductive system. In this sense, there are indications that it is effective for premenstrual syndrome, bloating, mood swings, and even some people believe it helps with breast tenderness. Some of these symptoms may interact when the end of the cycle or female climacteric arrives, so taking it might facilitate the transition.

Some studies, like the one conducted by the American Family Physician in 2009, tried to reach conclusions on whether evening primrose oil and menopause were related. The benefits it provided in this case were inconclusive.

More recently, in 2013 in the United States, the book with the Archives of Gynecology and Obstetrics (Archives of Gynecology and Obstetrics. You can see it here) included some cases related to this topic. There are some descriptions of women who were administered evening primrose oil for menopause and doses to relieve hot flashes and general discomfort caused by this stage in a woman’s life.

The study was conducted using a placebo and a supplement containing this substance. The women who consumed the oil reported a decrease in hot flashes and flushes compared to the placebo group. These results led the authors to indicate that, although it could not be empirically certified, there could be benefits for menopause.

Dose

In general, it is considered normal to take 500 mg to 1,500 mg per day. Depending on each person’s conditions, the dose of evening primrose oil may vary. You can take it all at once or spread it throughout the day for convenience.

In addition to gaining benefits for this period of life, you will provide essential acids to the body and boost skin tissue. It is a good source of vitamin C, minerals like iron, magnesium, potassium, and others that are essential for everyone’s development but particularly important from the age of 40.

Moreover, by including it in your diet, either in oil or capsule form, you benefit from the arginine, glycine, and lysine it contains. These, among many other essential and non-essential amino acids, are excellent for maintaining good health, repairing tissues damaged by aging, and, ultimately, helping you feel better every day.

Alternatives for Menopausal Hot Flashes

As with everything, some women may find it helpful to include this food or Oenothera seed-based preparation in some of its forms and products in their diet, while others may prefer to use alternative methods. Whether it works for you or because of other preferences, there are some alternatives and remedies for menopausal hot flashes.

• Black cohosh or Actaea racemosa works for hot flashes and premenstrual syndrome, but it should be avoided for more than 6 months, as it could lead to liver problems.
• Dong quai has properties for premenstrual syndrome (PMS), menstrual cramps, and menopause.
• Red clover improves hot flashes and reduces flushes.
• Taking hormones.
• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors.

You can use some natural herbal supplements and complement them with your specialist’s recommendations. But remember, some of these supplements for improving symptoms and hot flashes of menopause can enhance their effects together. If you are taking any herbal preparations or evening primrose oil, consult an expert, a health professional, or a trusted online herbalist. This way, you’ll be informed of possible interactions with other products.