Disclaimer

The contents of all information on the SBMEDEX site is  for informational purposes only. The Medical information is not proposed to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek advice of your physician or other qualified health providers if you have questions regarding your medical condition. You should not ignore professional medical advice or postpone in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.  

If you think you may have an acute medical emergency, call your physician or 911 STAT. Our website does not recommend or endorse any specific laboratory tests, pharmaceutical drugs, products, procedures, opinions, or other information that may be mentioned on the website.  Reliance on any information provided by our Website is solely at your own risk. 

Can primrose oil lower my blood sugars? I have been reading a lot about this health supplement but am not sure.

One disorder where primrose oil has gained prominence is diabetes. There are some anecdotal reports that regular intake of EPO can help reduce blood sugars. The manufacturers of Primrose oil do recommend the supplement on a regular basis for its anti diabetic effects. The oil is sold as a capsule which is relatively cheap. There are also some reports among diabetics who report that primrose oil can reduce the numbness, tingling and pain in their feet.

There are no clinical trials on primrose oil and the blood sugar lowering effects are not seen in all diabetics. At best less than 2% of individuals see any effect and the blood lowering effects are neither consistent nor predictable. There is very little scientific evidence to indicate that primrose oil alone can lower blood sugars.

EPO is generally safe when taken as recommended. It does have a few side effects like nausea, bloating, abdominal cramps, headaches and loose stools when excessive amounts are ingested.

All diabetics should understand that Primrose oil is not a substitute for insulin or any of the currently available anti diabetic medications. While it may lower blood sugars in some individuals, the mechanism remains unknown. At present there is not enough information to recommend safe use of evening primrose oil during pregnancy or in women who are breastfeeding.