It used to be gathered and eaten for food by Native Americans. Gammalinolenic acid and Linoleic acid. GLA is an essential fatty acid not manufactured by the body. This fatty acid is known to help prevent hardening of the arteries, heart disease, premenstrual syndrome, multiple sclerosis, high blood pressure and sore breasts. It has a positive effect on sex hormone response including the hormones estrogen and testosterone.
Research also demonstrates that Primrose oil helps relieve pain and inflammation.
It has been effective in treating cirrhosis of the liver. A lack of GLA may lead to a dysfunctional level of prostaglandins. The essential fatty acids found in Primrose oil have desirable effects on many disorders. Found in high concentrations in the brain, fatty acids aid transmission of nerve impulses and are needed for normal brain function. GLA is also important for healthy skin by restoring the fat and moisture necessary for skin balance.