Evening Primrose is the common name of Oenothera biennis species, from Onagraceae family.
Also known as: sundrops, field primrose, scabish.
Evening primrose flower
Image credit: Georg Slickers
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Features of Evening Primrose
Height to 36-60 inches. Spread to 9-12 inches. Zone 5-8. Biennial.
hairy stem.
round, light-brown seed.
taproot root.
lance-shaped leaf.
yellow, scented, bowl-shaped flower in summer.
Growing Evening Primrose
- by seed during autumn.
- by self-seed.
- disease: May suffer from mildew.
- growth: Suitable as an outdoor pot-plant, but does not grow well indoors.
- transplant: 12 inches apart.
- trimming: deadhead flowers to prevent excessive self-seeding.
Using Evening Primrose
Cosmetic
Lotion
Add to hand lotions. (Use leaf, stem)
Steam
Infuse as a facial steam. (Use leaf, stem)
Culinary
Vegetable
The root tastes like parsnip. Boil and eat. (Use root)
Medicinal
Essential oil
May be helpful for multiple sclerosis. (Use seed)
Essential oil
Evening primrose oil can be helpful for eczema, acne, and menstrual disorders by regulating hormones. It is also rich in linoleic acid, which helps lower cholesterol and blood pressure. (Use seed)
Tea
An infusion of dried barks and leaves soothes whooping cough. (Use leaf, stem)
Traditional Remedies
- Skin » dermatitis, eczema, acne
- Respiratory » cough
- Mood » depression
- Disorder » menstrual disorders
- Muscle And Joint » arthritis
- Other » high blood pressure, high cholesterol
Traditional remedies may or may not be supported by scientific evidences.
Cautions
- Please consult with your doctor before using evening primrose for health related purposes.
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