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| Oenothera biennis |
The evening primrose is a herbaceus flowering plant, native to the Americas and in the past was mostly used by the Indians, either as food or as medicine, while the first plants arrived in Europe in the 16th century. It numbers about 145 species worldwide; the most common species in greek nature is the Oenothera biennis.
Its name comes from the greek words “oinos” which means “wine” and “theran” which means “to hunt” because Greeks used to drink a mixture of wine and evening primrose flowers and this combination was calming down the nerves.
Its name comes from the greek words “oinos” which means “wine” and “theran” which means “to hunt” because Greeks used to drink a mixture of wine and evening primrose flowers and this combination was calming down the nerves.
The plant can reach 0.10cm up to 3m, depending on the species, it only blooms at night and emits a divine fragrance. Its flowers are usually yellow but depend on the species, can be found also in purple, pink or white colour. The evening primrose is suitable for bees, it offers medicinal properties and it is often used as an ornamental plant. The entire plant is edible; roots and shoots are considered the tastiest and its seed oil has healing and soothing properties.
In the past was used to soothe cough, asthma, gastrointestinal problems, to heal wounds and treat bruises. Today, we are using it to face symptoms from premenstrual syndrome, menopause and arthritis. It fights against digestive and heart diseases, Alzheimer’s dicease, it is used for various cancer forms and dermatosis. The evening primrose relieves from breast tenderness, improves psychological condition, helps in multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, thrombosis and controls high blood pressure.
The evening primrose products can cause problems though, if they are taken with medication such as anti- epileptic or anti- depressant or anti- hypertensive, while particularly attention must be given during pregnancy.
Before use, consult your doctor.
The evening primrose oil has an extremely high content of fatty acids, mainly linoleic and gamma- linolenic acid, which they belong to the famous omega-6 fatty acids. It contains also vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, E, palmitic acid and polyphenols. It is suitable to treat eczema and psoriasis and moisturises dry skin. It has anti- aging and antioxidant benefits and it is used for strengthening hair and nails. It is excellent ingredient in cosmetics products for your eyes.
You can eat it in your salad, mixing it with olive oil.
Stella Crown©
