How to Use Primrose Oil to Lower Cholesterol

The seeds of the Evening Primrose contain an oil that is a source of the fatty acid gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). It's this ingredient that may act as a natural therapeutic tool for many conditions, including arthritis and eczema. Some people use it to lower cholesterol levels.

Instructions

1

Use convenient tablet or capsule formulations. These can contain more concentrated amounts of the extracted primrose oil. By buying higher extractions, you can limit the number of doses you'll need.

2

Talk to your doctor. Because primrose oil is not FDA approved, there are few studies to support the claims of its effectiveness. Little is known about its drug interaction. Don't take the oil if you take other cholesterol-reducing medications.

3

Maintain a daily routine. As with any other treatment, consistency is key. Primrose oil is taken daily with dosage times and amounts varying by manufacturer. Take 1,000 mg three times a day for therapeutic benefits. This supplies 240 mg of GLA a day.

4

Get a formula that contains vitamin E. Experts recommend buying evening primrose oil that contains a small amount of vitamin E because the fatty acids in evening primrose oil break down quickly. Vitamin E is thought to slow this process.