GLA (Evening Primrose Oil)
Fatty Acid
Also known as: Evening primrose oil, EPO, Gamma-linolenic acid
B
Grade B💊 500-3000 mg EPO daily (providing 40-300mg GLA)🎯 4 primary uses🔗 2 synergies⚠️ Review warnings
Overview
Gamma-linolenic acid omega-6 for skin health, PMS, and inflammation. Anti-inflammatory despite being omega-6.
Primary Uses
Skin healthPMS symptomsInflammationHormone balance
Dosage
Typical range
500-3000 mg EPO daily (providing 40-300mg GLA)
Timing
With meals
With food
Yes
Duration
Benefits develop over weeks
Special Populations
PMS, eczema, skin concerns
Mechanism of Action
- • GLA converts to anti-inflammatory DGLA
- • Supports skin barrier
- • May help PMS symptoms
Evidence Quality
Evidence Grade B
Anti-inflammatory omega-6
Safety & Contraindications
Serious Warnings
- • May lower seizure threshold
Contraindications
- • Seizure disorders
- • Before surgery
Common Side Effects
- • GI upset
- • Headache
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
May help but consult provider
Liver & Kidney Notes
Safe
Interactions
💊 Medications
- • Blood thinners
- • Seizure medications
🧪 Supplements
- • Works with fish oil
🍽️ Food & Alcohol
- • No interactions
Stacking & Synergies
Pairs Well With
Fish oilVitamin E
Avoid Combining With
Caution with seizure risk
Best Goal Synergies
PMSSkin health
Buying Guide
What to Look For
- • GLA percentage stated
Standardization Markers
GLA content
Adulteration risk
Low
Practical Notes
- • Anti-inflammatory despite being omega-6
- • Popular for PMS
Tags
fatty acidomega-6GLAskinwomen's health
Frequently Asked About GLA (Evening Primrose Oil)
How much GLA (Evening Primrose Oil) should I take?
The typical effective range is 500-3000 mg EPO daily (providing 40-300mg GLA). Individual needs vary based on age, body weight, diet, and goals — start at the lower end and adjust based on response. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting a new supplement.
When is the best time to take GLA (Evening Primrose Oil)?
With meals. Consistency matters more than perfect timing — pick a daily anchor (e.g. with breakfast or before bed) and stick with it.
Should I take GLA (Evening Primrose Oil) with food?
Yes.
Does GLA (Evening Primrose Oil) interact with medications?
Yes — known interactions include Blood thinners and Seizure medications. If you take any prescription medication, talk to your doctor or pharmacist before starting GLA (Evening Primrose Oil).
What does GLA (Evening Primrose Oil) pair well with?
GLA (Evening Primrose Oil) stacks well with Fish oil and Vitamin E — these combinations either improve absorption or work synergistically toward common goals.
Who should not take GLA (Evening Primrose Oil)?
GLA (Evening Primrose Oil) should be avoided or used with caution by people with Seizure disorders and Before surgery. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare provider before use.
What are the side effects of GLA (Evening Primrose Oil)?
Most people tolerate GLA (Evening Primrose Oil) well. The most commonly reported side effects are GI upset and Headache. Side effects are usually dose-dependent — lowering the dose often resolves them.
Educational content based on published research and our scoring methodology. Not medical advice — consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing supplements, especially if you take medications, are pregnant, or have a medical condition.