Evening Primrose

Anecdotal Evidence

The effects of evening primrose on breasts depend on present body hormone levels. Oenothera has the ability to increase or decrease estrogenic symptoms. It is notable that no matter when evening primrose is taken, it doesn't increase androgenic symptoms such as alcopecia or hirsutism.

When evening primrose is taken during the begining of proliferative phase, it raises temperature and has the ability to cause hot-flashes, but after a while, temperature levels seem to lower, sometimes below the previous temperature. Primrose contains the precursor to FSH, and it likely causes an increase of this hormone. Use of evening primrose is likely unsustainable for fertility, as it seems to rely on estrogen from ovarian follicle release.

Oenothera for breast enhancement

Evening primrose has caused breast enlargement, but it is not recommended at this time. Continued and excessive use is likely not sustainable for ovarian health. Evening primrose shouldn't be used in any amount for those with a past hormone imbalance.

Oenothera, when used alone and not during the ideal phase of the menstrual cycle, likely treats a symptom temporarily. When used with the right herbal combination and during the right time of the cycle, evening primrose probably has potential to increase overall estrogen response. Avoid evening primrose during menstruation and premenstrual phases.

If it were to be used, limit evening primrose to once for mid-proliferative phase (only after mucus picks up), or for mid-secretory phase (also after mucus picks up). Oenothera required sunflower and minimal amounts of fennel and spearmint to cause bust growth. Wild yam or fenugreek could possibly replace fennel. Evening primrose could cause bust enhancement other times, but that use would be unsustainable for health. Evening primrose is unlikely to work together with hops.

Also, if Evening primrose were to be used, amounts should be limited. Use a drop of evening primrose per serving with over a teaspoon of olive oil. Unfortunately most supplements come in high amounts. If you have the capsule form, dilute one capsule in olive oil for extended use.

Programs Anon02 and Anon03 show results of evening primrose use, however this herb is no longer recommended.

Oenothera or herbs with similar properties, are in the programs of: menses, proliferative, luteal and BCP01. Herb timing and combinations' success for breast enhancement relies on menstrual phases. Descriptions and pictures of results from herb combination use can be seen in programs.

Other than for breast enhancement

Evening primrose has a reputation for relieving hot-flashes. This unfavorable symptom is due to estrogen receptor desensitization.

Precautions

See precautions for more details of care to be taken with herb use. Proper nutrition is a consideration for health. Also, check for the latest blog updates about herb and hormone safety.

It is very important that menses be light and not prolonged.

If you have hirsutism, PCOS, hot-flashes, other signs of hormone imbalances, see estrogen-imbalance, and hirsutism program journals #1, #2 and #3 before trying herbs.

Herb concentrates can be tens of times more potent by weight than herbs in solid form. This can easily lead to hormone imbalances. For this reason, concentrate extracts are not recommended for extended or excessive internal use, especially during fertility years. Concentrates shouldn't be used to overcome plateaus. Another issue with herbal extracts, is that they may not have the full range of properties of the herb. Essential oils are not recommended for breast enhancement. If opting to use herb extracts, use no more than 1 drop at a time diluted in a food-grade carrier oil (like unrefined olive oil), or water.