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| Evening Primrose (Oenotheris Biennis) |
| A native of North America, evening primrose is now widely naturalized across Europe. The leaves were traditionally used for asthma and digestive disorders; however, during the 1970s researchers found that the seeds are rich in an essential fatty acid called gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) that is vital for good health. |
| Description: A tall (up to 5 feet) biennial with a basal rosette of pointed leaves and scattered leaves on the stems. In summer large, pale yellow flowers, which have a heavy scent in the evenings, appear along the stem, giving a prolonged flowering period. |
| Parts used: Seed oil. |
| Actions: Alterative, hormone regulator, source of essential fatty acids. |
| Uses: GLA is reputed to ease menstrual and menopausal problems, strengthen the circulatory system, combat certain sorts of eczema, and boost the immune system. Research suggests that it can ease irritable bowel syndrome when symptoms are associated with the menstrua l cycle. In clinical trials dosages of 3 g to 5 g a day have been commonplace although commercial capsules generally contain 250 to 1,000 mg and most suppliers recommend 500 to 1,000 mg a day. The oil can also be used on the skin for eczema and similar problems. Because evening primrose oil helps to normalize liver function it can be useful to counter the symptoms of a hang-over on "the morning after." Take up to 2 g of the oil in capsules. |
| Eyebright (Euphrasia Officinalis) |
| Eyebright is one of our most effective anticatarrhals and, as the name suggests, a favorite eye remedy. It was first mentioned in the 14th century as a cure for "all evils of the eye." |
| Description: An annual, low-growing plant with upright, rounded, toothed leaves and small white three-lobed flowers, often streaked with purple and with a yellow throat. |
| Parts used: Aerial parts. |
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