Abstract

Recently, studies on the evening primrose seed (Oenothera biennis L) and evening primrose oil (EPO) in the Onagraceae family have gained speed due to its bioactive component content. The therapeutic effects of EPO are mainly due to the essential fatty acid content, especially the γ-linolenic acid. A large part of the fatty acid content constitutes linoleic acid (74%), γ- linolenic acid (9%) and oleic acid (7%). The non-soap 1.5-2% of the EPO consists of sterols, tocopherols, triterpenes, alcohols and hydrocarbons. EPO, 55.49±2.76 mg/kg phenolic compound contains approximately half of this form of ferulic acid. Many studies have shown that EPO has beneficial effects on rheumatoid arthritis, atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, asthma, premenstrual and menopausal syndrome, diabetic nephropathy. By reducing the absorption of diet and bile cholesterol from the intestinal tract through plant sterols and stanols, significantly lower LDL cholesterol levels in hypercholesterolemic diabetic and healthy subjects. It also reduces oxidative stress and inflammation biomarkers due to its antioxidant ingredients; it acts as antiinflammatory, antimicrobial, anticarcinogenic and antiviral due to phenolic compounds. The use of EPO may cause inflammation, thrombosis, and immunosuppressive effects when used for more than a year, although the use of EPO is well tolerated in the short term. Also, since there is not enough data, it is not recommended for women in pregnancy and lactation period and <12 years old children. Considering the widespread therapeutic effects of EPO, it is thought to be a new food component to be investigated.