NOW Foods Evening Primrose Oil 1000mg: Is NOW Foods Evening Primrose Oil safe to take daily?

NOW Foods Evening Primrose Oil is generally considered safe for daily use when taken as directed. Evening primrose oil has been used for decades and has a well-established safety profile. Consult your healthcare provider if you take blood thinners or have a bleeding disorder.

NOW Foods Evening Primrose Oil 1000mg: Can evening primrose oil interact with blood-thinning medications?

Evening primrose oil may have mild blood-thinning properties and could potentially increase the effect of anticoagulant medications like warfarin. If you take blood thinners, consult your doctor before starting EPO supplementation. Discontinue use 2 weeks before surgery.

NOW Foods Evening Primrose Oil 1000mg: Are there side effects from NOW Foods Evening Primrose Oil?

Most people tolerate evening primrose oil well. Occasional side effects may include mild stomach upset, nausea, or soft stools. Taking the softgels with food typically minimizes digestive side effects. Allergic reactions are rare but possible.

NOW Foods Evening Primrose Oil 1000mg: Is NOW Foods EPO safe during pregnancy?

Evening primrose oil is sometimes used in late pregnancy, but its safety during pregnancy has not been conclusively established. Do not take EPO during pregnancy or breastfeeding without explicit guidance from your healthcare provider.

NOW Foods Evening Primrose Oil 1000mg: Can evening primrose oil cause hormonal changes?

Evening primrose oil provides GLA (gamma-linolenic acid), which supports prostaglandin production rather than directly affecting hormones. It does not contain phytoestrogens and does not directly alter estrogen or progesterone levels. Its effects on PMS are mediated through anti-inflammatory pathways.

NOW Foods Evening Primrose Oil 1000mg: How many NOW Foods EPO softgels should I take per day?

The recommended dose is one softgel taken 1-3 times daily with food. This provides 1000-3000mg of evening primrose oil (120-360mg GLA) per day. Start with one softgel daily and increase as needed based on your health goals.

NOW Foods Evening Primrose Oil 1000mg: Should I take evening primrose oil with food?

Yes, taking NOW Foods Evening Primrose Oil with a meal containing some fat significantly improves absorption of the GLA and other fatty acids. It also reduces the chance of stomach upset. Never take oil supplements on a completely empty stomach.

NOW Foods Evening Primrose Oil 1000mg: How long does it take for evening primrose oil to work for PMS?

Most women notice improvements in PMS symptoms after 2-3 menstrual cycles of consistent daily use. For breast tenderness specifically, some studies show benefits within 1-2 cycles. Consistent daily supplementation is more effective than taking it only during PMS.

NOW Foods Evening Primrose Oil 1000mg: Can I take more than 3 softgels per day?

Higher doses (up to 4000mg EPO daily) have been used in some clinical studies for skin conditions. However, do not exceed the recommended dose without consulting your healthcare provider, as higher GLA intake may increase the risk of digestive side effects.

NOW Foods Evening Primrose Oil 1000mg: How long can I take evening primrose oil continuously?

Evening primrose oil has been used in studies lasting 6-12 months without significant safety concerns. Many women take it continuously for ongoing PMS or skin support. There is no established maximum duration, but periodic reassessment with your healthcare provider is good practice.

NOW Foods Evening Primrose Oil 1000mg: What is GLA and why does it matter in evening primrose oil?

GLA (gamma-linolenic acid) is an omega-6 fatty acid that the body converts to DGLA, which produces anti-inflammatory prostaglandins. NOW Foods EPO provides 120mg GLA per softgel (12% GLA content). GLA is the primary active compound responsible for EPO health benefits.

NOW Foods Evening Primrose Oil 1000mg: Is NOW Foods Evening Primrose Oil cold-pressed?

Yes, NOW Foods uses cold-pressed, hexane-free extraction for their Evening Primrose Oil. Cold pressing preserves the integrity of delicate GLA and other omega-6 fatty acids without the use of chemical solvents or excessive heat.

NOW Foods Evening Primrose Oil 1000mg: What does hexane-free mean?

Hexane is a chemical solvent commonly used to extract oils from seeds. Hexane-free means NOW Foods extracts their evening primrose oil without this solvent, avoiding potential trace residues. Cold-pressed, hexane-free extraction is the gold standard for preserving oil quality.

NOW Foods Evening Primrose Oil 1000mg: Does NOW Foods EPO contain any other fatty acids besides GLA?

Yes, evening primrose oil naturally contains a profile of fatty acids including linoleic acid (about 70%), GLA (about 12%), oleic acid, palmitic acid, and stearic acid. GLA is the most therapeutically significant, but the complete fatty acid profile contributes to overall benefits.

NOW Foods Evening Primrose Oil 1000mg: What is the softgel shell made of?

NOW Foods Evening Primrose Oil uses a vegetarian softgel shell, which is unusual for oil supplements that typically use gelatin. This makes it suitable for vegetarians. The softgel also contains glycerin and water.

NOW Foods Evening Primrose Oil 1000mg: Does NOW Foods Evening Primrose Oil help with PMS?

Evening primrose oil is one of the most popular natural remedies for PMS, particularly breast tenderness and mood changes. Clinical evidence is mixed but generally supportive at doses of 1000-3000mg EPO daily. Many women report noticeable improvements after 2-3 cycles of consistent use.

NOW Foods Evening Primrose Oil 1000mg: Can NOW Foods EPO help with skin conditions like eczema?

Evening primrose oil has been studied for eczema and dry skin conditions, with some trials showing improvements in skin hydration and inflammation. Doses of 2000-4000mg EPO daily are typically used for skin benefits. Results vary by individual and may take several weeks.

NOW Foods Evening Primrose Oil 1000mg: Does evening primrose oil help with menopause symptoms?

The evidence for evening primrose oil in menopause is limited compared to hot flash remedies like black cohosh. Some women use EPO for menopausal skin dryness and general omega-6 support. It is not the first-choice supplement specifically for hot flashes.

NOW Foods Evening Primrose Oil 1000mg: How does 12% GLA content compare to other EPO products?

A 12% GLA content is at the high end of the typical range (8-12%) for evening primrose oil. This means NOW Foods EPO delivers more GLA per mg of oil than many competitors. Higher GLA content means fewer softgels needed to reach your target dose.

NOW Foods Evening Primrose Oil 1000mg: How big are the NOW Foods EPO softgels?

The 1000mg softgels are a standard oil supplement size — larger than a typical capsule but smaller than fish oil softgels. Most users find them manageable to swallow with water. If you have difficulty with large capsules, consider taking them with a meal.

NOW Foods Evening Primrose Oil 1000mg: How should I store NOW Foods Evening Primrose Oil?

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Oil supplements can become rancid if exposed to heat or light. Some users refrigerate EPO softgels to extend freshness, which is fine but not required. Keep the bottle tightly sealed.

NOW Foods Evening Primrose Oil 1000mg: How many softgels are in one bottle?

Each bottle contains 90 vegetarian softgels. At one softgel per day, this provides a 90-day (3-month) supply. At the higher dose of three softgels daily, the bottle lasts 30 days.

NOW Foods Evening Primrose Oil 1000mg: Is NOW Foods Evening Primrose Oil vegetarian?

Yes, NOW Foods uses a vegetarian softgel shell for their Evening Primrose Oil, making it suitable for vegetarians. The entire product is free from animal-derived ingredients. This is notable because most oil supplement softgels use gelatin.

NOW Foods Evening Primrose Oil 1000mg: Is this product gluten-free and soy-free?

NOW Foods Evening Primrose Oil does not contain gluten or soy ingredients. It is manufactured in GMP-certified facilities. Always check the current label for the most up-to-date allergen information.

NOW Foods Evening Primrose Oil 1000mg: Is NOW Foods EPO Non-GMO?

NOW Foods Evening Primrose Oil is made from non-GMO evening primrose seeds. NOW Foods is committed to using non-GMO ingredients across their product line and maintains quality controls to verify this.

Sports Research Evening Primrose Oil 1300mg: Are there any potential interactions with medications?

Evening primrose oil GLA can mildly inhibit platelet aggregation and may enhance the effects of blood thinners like warfarin. It may also lower the seizure threshold in individuals taking phenothiazine medications. Consult your physician if you are on anticoagulants, anticonvulsants, or planning surgery within 2 weeks.

Sports Research Evening Primrose Oil 1300mg: Are there any side effects from long-term use?

EPO at 1300mg daily is well-tolerated for long-term use. Occasional mild GI symptoms (nausea, loose stools) may occur at higher doses. No serious adverse effects have been reported with long-term EPO supplementation at standard doses. Cold-pressed quality in this formula minimizes rancidity-related GI irritation.

Sports Research Evening Primrose Oil 1300mg: Does it cause any digestive issues or side effects?

Taking EPO with food minimizes any mild GI sensitivity. Higher doses (multiple softgels) are more commonly associated with loose stools. The cold-pressed quality oil in this formula is less likely to cause GI irritation than lower-quality oxidized EPO. Most users tolerate one softgel daily without issues.

Sports Research Evening Primrose Oil 1300mg: Can it be taken with other supplements or vitamins?

EPO pairs well with omega-3 fish oil for comprehensive fatty acid coverage, vitamin E for antioxidant protection of GLA, and magnesium for hormonal balance. Avoid combining with other GLA sources (borage, black currant) without tracking total GLA intake. Can be combined with vitamins and minerals without concern.

Sports Research Evening Primrose Oil 1300mg: Are there any specific instructions for taking it safely?

Take one softgel daily with a meal for best tolerance and absorption. Discontinue 2 weeks before surgery due to mild antiplatelet effects. Not recommended in high doses during pregnancy without medical guidance. Refrigerate after opening to maintain oil freshness.

Sports Research Evening Primrose Oil 1300mg: How long until benefits are typically experienced?

GLA-based hormonal balance benefits for PMS and menopausal symptoms typically require 2–3 menstrual cycles (2–3 months) of consistent daily use to assess. Skin hydration improvements from GLA are often reported within 4–8 weeks. Anti-inflammatory effects build gradually over the same timeframe.

Sports Research Evening Primrose Oil 1300mg: Is the dosage suitable for meeting daily requirements?

130mg GLA from one 1300mg softgel daily is a moderate dose for general wellness. Clinical research on PMS and hormonal applications uses 240–480mg GLA daily, suggesting 2–4 softgels may be needed for therapeutic benefit. One softgel is appropriate for general maintenance and skin health applications.

Sports Research Evening Primrose Oil 1300mg: Are there specific instructions for taking it with food?

Take with a meal containing dietary fat to enhance GLA absorption and reduce GI sensitivity. The evening primrose oil itself provides fat context, but pairing with a fat-containing meal improves overall fatty acid absorption and reduces any stomach sensitivity.

Sports Research Evening Primrose Oil 1300mg: How long does one bag or box typically last when used daily?

The 30-softgel bottle provides a 30-day supply at one daily — or 15 days at two daily for higher GLA doses. Sports Research also offers a 60-count version. For ongoing hormonal or skin health supplementation, the 60-count or Subscribe & Save option improves convenience and value.

Sports Research Evening Primrose Oil 1300mg: Is its dosage easy to adjust for individual needs?

Yes — the individual softgel format makes it easy to take 1 (130mg GLA) or 2 (260mg GLA) daily based on personal health goals. The high-potency 1300mg per softgel means fewer capsules for moderate GLA doses compared to lower-potency 500mg options.

Sports Research Evening Primrose Oil 1300mg: Is the product tested for purity and potency?

Yes — Non-GMO tested and manufactured in US cGMP-compliant facilities. Third-party quality testing confirms GLA content and absence of heavy metals, pesticides, and solvent residues. Cold-pressing without hexane means no solvent residue testing concerns for this specific extraction method.

Sports Research Evening Primrose Oil 1300mg: Does it contain any fillers, binders, or artificial ingredients?

No — the formula contains only cold-pressed evening primrose seed oil in a gelatin softgel capsule. No fillers, binders, artificial flavors, or preservatives are added. Non-GMO testing confirms ingredient sourcing integrity throughout the supply chain.

Sports Research Evening Primrose Oil 1300mg: Does it contain any allergens or additives?

Free from gluten and soy. Contains gelatin (bovine or porcine) in the softgel shell — not suitable for vegans or vegetarians. Evening primrose is a plant-derived ingredient with no major allergen designations. No artificial additives are present.

Sports Research Evening Primrose Oil 1300mg: Are the ingredients sourced from trusted suppliers?

Evening primrose seeds are sourced from non-GMO-verified agricultural sources. Cold-pressing is conducted without hexane solvent, preserving GLA integrity from cultivation through extraction. Sports Research sources from suppliers meeting their Non-GMO testing standards throughout the supply chain.

Sports Research Evening Primrose Oil 1300mg: Is its potency consistent across batches?

cGMP manufacturing and third-party testing ensure consistent GLA concentration per softgel across batches. Cold-pressing is a more standardized extraction process than solvent extraction, providing natural potency consistency. Non-GMO testing covers each production batch for ingredient integrity.

Sports Research Evening Primrose Oil 1300mg: Does it provide noticeable focus and mental clarity benefits?

GLA from evening primrose oil is not specifically targeted at cognitive function. Some users report improved mood and reduced PMS-related mental fog, which may indirectly improve perceived mental clarity. The primary applications are hormonal balance, skin health, and inflammatory support.

Sports Research Evening Primrose Oil 1300mg: How effective is it for sustained energy without jitters?

EPO does not provide stimulant energy. GLA supports prostaglandin synthesis and inflammatory regulation, which can indirectly support wellbeing and reduce fatigue associated with PMS or inflammatory conditions over time. Benefits are gradual and hormonally mediated rather than acute energy effects.

Sports Research Evening Primrose Oil 1300mg: Is its effectiveness backed by scientific research?

Evening primrose oil GLA has moderate clinical evidence for PMS symptom reduction, breast pain (mastalgia), and skin hydration. Several RCTs support its use for hormonal discomfort. Evidence for eczema is mixed but historically significant. The strongest applications are women's hormonal and skin health.

Sports Research Evening Primrose Oil 1300mg: What do customers think of its effectiveness?

With 34,426 Amazon reviews at 4.6 stars, this is among the most validated EPO supplements on the platform. Women consistently report improvements in PMS symptoms, skin hydration, and overall hormonal balance. The cold-pressed quality and non-GMO status are frequently cited as purchase drivers.

Sports Research Evening Primrose Oil 1300mg: Is the coffee easy to prepare?

This is a softgel supplement — no preparation required. One softgel is swallowed daily with a meal and water. The high-potency 1300mg format means one softgel achieves what multiple lower-dose capsules would require, which customers frequently appreciate.

Sports Research Evening Primrose Oil 1300mg: Is its formulation suitable for long-term daily use?

Yes — EPO at 1300mg daily is appropriate for ongoing use. The cold-pressed quality ensures low oxidation levels suitable for extended daily supplementation. For hormonal balance applications, consistent use across multiple menstrual cycles is required to assess benefit.

Sports Research Evening Primrose Oil 1300mg: Does it require special storage conditions?

Store in a cool, dry place away from light and heat. Refrigeration after opening is recommended to maintain oil freshness and prevent GLA oxidation. As a high-GLA plant oil, evening primrose is more susceptible to oxidation than saturated fats — cold storage significantly extends freshness.

Sports Research Evening Primrose Oil 1300mg: Is it suitable for individuals with dietary restrictions?

Suitable for gluten-free and soy-free dietary needs. Not suitable for vegans or vegetarians due to the gelatin softgel capsule. Non-GMO tested for clean ingredient sourcing. Those with plant-based requirements should look for SR products in the Plantgel vegan format.

Best Evening Primrose Oil Supplements (2026)

· Updated April 2026

Lab Tested, Evidence Ranked

Supplement Science Editorial Team·Evidence-Based Supplement Research

Published Mar 11, 2026·Reviewed Apr 21, 2026

2,400+Clinical Studies Cited

4Evening Primrose Oil products evaluated

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Statements about dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Individual results may vary — consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement. Full disclaimer

Our Verdict

The best evening primrose oil supplement provides 1000-1500mg of EPO per softgel standardized to 9-10% GLA (gamma-linolenic acid), from non-GMO cold-pressed seeds.

Best By Category

#1Best Overall

NOW Foods Evening Primrose Oil 1000mg

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#3Best High-Dose

Solgar Evening Primrose Oil 1300mg

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#4Best Premium

Nordic Naturals Evening Primrose Oil

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#1 Top Pick

Evening Primrose Oil 1000mg

NOW Foods

1,770 Amazon reviews

9/10

4.7

Delivers 120mg GLA per softgel from cold-pressed, hexane-free evening primrose oil. GMP-certified facility with third-party testing for purity and potency. At $0.13/serving, it's the best value EPO with quality extraction. Over 10,000 positive Amazon reviews.

IngredientCold-Pressed Evening Primrose Oil (min. 12% GLA)

Dose1000mg evening primrose oil (120mg GLA) per softgel

FormSoftgel

TestingGMP Certified, Third-Party Tested

1000mg evening primrose oil (120mg GLA) per softgelClinical range: 2-6 g daily (providing 160-480 mg GLA)

Below clinical dose

$0.19/serving

Pros

Cold-pressed, hexane-free extraction
120mg GLA per softgel (12%)
Excellent value at $0.13/serving

Cons

Standard large softgel size
May need multiple softgels for clinical dose

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Read full review →

The best evening primrose oil delivers 1000-1500mg per softgel standardized to 9-10% GLA, from non-GMO cold-pressed...

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We evaluated evening primrose oil supplements across GLA content, extraction method, softgel size, purity, and value. Our picks prioritize cold-pressed oils with high gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) content.

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Some links below are affiliate links — this doesn't affect our editorial independence or product ratings. How we evaluate products

Quick Comparison

#1NOW Foods Evening Primrose Oil 1000mg

9/10

NOW Foods

#1 Top Pick

1,770 Amazon reviews

Best for: overall value and quality EPO

Cold-Pressed Evening Primrose Oil (min. 12% GLA) · 1000mg evening primrose oil (120mg GLA) per softgel

Softgel · GMP Certified, Third-Party Tested

$17.39

$0.19/serving

Buy Nowon Amazon

#2Sports Research Evening Primrose Oil 1300mg

8.5/10

Sports Research

34,426 Amazon reviews

Best for: Women seeking cold-pressed GLA from evening primrose for hormonal balance and skin health

Evening Primrose Seed Oil 1300mg (10% GLA = 130mg GLA per softgel) · 1300mg EPO per softgel; 130mg GLA

Softgel · Yes — Non-GMO tested, third-party quality tested

$14.95

$0.50/serving

Buy Nowon Amazon

#3Solgar Evening Primrose Oil 1300mg

8.8/10

Solgar

3,223 Amazon reviews

Best for: Highest GLA per softgel, fewer capsules needed

Cold-Pressed Evening Primrose Oil · 1300mg evening primrose oil (156mg GLA) per softgel

Softgel · Third-Party Tested, Non-GMO

$12.20

$0.20/serving

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#4Nordic Naturals Evening Primrose Oil

8.5/10

Nordic Naturals

2,061 Amazon reviews

Best for: Smaller softgels from a premium oil brand

Cold-Pressed Evening Primrose Oil · 500mg evening primrose oil (68mg GLA) per softgel

Softgel · Third-Party Tested for Purity

$31.30

$0.52/serving

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#	Product	Best For	Ingredient & Dose	Form & Testing	Price	Rating
1	NOW Foods Evening Primrose Oil 1000mg #1 Top Pick 1,770 Amazon reviews	overall value and quality EPO	Cold-Pressed Evening Primrose Oil (min. 12% GLA) 1000mg evening primrose oil (120mg GLA) per softgel	Softgel GMP Certified, Third-Party Tested	$17.39 $0.19/serving	9/10	Buy Nowon Amazon
2	Sports Research Evening Primrose Oil 1300mg 34,426 Amazon reviews	Women seeking cold-pressed GLA from evening primrose for hormonal balance and skin health	Evening Primrose Seed Oil 1300mg (10% GLA = 130mg GLA per softgel) 1300mg EPO per softgel; 130mg GLA	Softgel 30.0 Count Yes — Non-GMO tested, third-party quality tested	$14.95 $0.50/serving	8.5/10	Buy Nowon Amazon
3	Solgar Evening Primrose Oil 1300mg 3,223 Amazon reviews	Highest GLA per softgel, fewer capsules needed	Cold-Pressed Evening Primrose Oil 1300mg evening primrose oil (156mg GLA) per softgel	Softgel 60 Softgels Third-Party Tested, Non-GMO	$12.20 $0.20/serving	8.8/10	Buy Nowon Amazon
4	Nordic Naturals Evening Primrose Oil 2,061 Amazon reviews	Smaller softgels from a premium oil brand	Cold-Pressed Evening Primrose Oil 500mg evening primrose oil (68mg GLA) per softgel	Softgel 60 Servings Third-Party Tested for Purity	$31.30 $0.52/serving	8.5/10	Buy Nowon Amazon

How We Chose These Products

We scored every contender on the 5weighted criteria below. Evidence quality and third-party verification carry the most weight; value, clean-label formulation, and transparency round out the score. Where tradeoffs appear — a higher-evidence form that costs more, a research-grade dose in a product with a heavier price tag, a commodity ingredient at a rock-bottom price — the pick that wins on evidence-grade criteria takes the top slot. Business partnerships never move a product's score, and lower-cost non-affiliate alternatives are included when they meet the same evidence bar.

GLA Content

30%

Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) is the primary active fatty acid in evening primrose oil, typically comprising 8-12% of the oil. Higher GLA content per softgel means fewer capsules needed to reach clinical doses.

Extraction Method

25%

Cold-pressed, hexane-free extraction preserves GLA integrity and avoids solvent residues. Heat and chemical solvents can degrade delicate omega-6 fatty acids.

Softgel Size

15%

Evening primrose oil softgels can be large (1000-1300mg oil). Smaller, easier-to-swallow softgels improve compliance, especially for daily long-term use.

Third-Party Testing

20%

Independent testing verifies GLA content, screens for heavy metals and oxidation markers. Oil supplements are susceptible to rancidity if poorly manufactured.

Value

10%

Cost per serving and cost per mg of GLA. Higher-dose softgels can offer better value per mg of active GLA.

Detailed Reviews

#1 Top Pick

NOW Foods Supplements, Evening Primrose Oil 1000 mg, Cold Pressed, Hexane Free, Vegan Formula, 90 Veg Softgels

NOW Foods

1,770 Amazon reviews

9/10

(1,770)

IngredientCold-Pressed Evening Primrose Oil (min. 12% GLA)

Dose1000mg evening primrose oil (120mg GLA) per softgel

FormSoftgel

TestingGMP Certified, Third-Party Tested

1000mg evening primrose oil (120mg GLA) per softgelClinical range: 2-6 g daily (providing 160-480 mg GLA)

Below clinical dose

$0.19/serving

Ideal for: overall value and quality EPO

Not ideal for: Those wanting the highest GLA per softgel or having difficulty swallowing large capsules.

Pros

Cold-pressed, hexane-free extraction
120mg GLA per softgel (12%)
Excellent value at $0.13/serving
GMP certified with third-party testing

Cons

Standard large softgel size
May need multiple softgels for clinical dose
No added omega-3s

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Sports Research Evening Primrose Oil 1300mg — view 1 of 5

Sports Research Evening Primrose Supplement from Cold Pressed Oil - Softgels for Women’s Health & Skin Health - Gluten Free & Non-GMO GLA - High Potency 1300mg, 30 Count

#2 Best Sellerin Evening Primrose Herbal

Sports Research

34,426 Amazon reviews

8.5/10

(34,426)

Gluten-free, soy-freeContains gelatin (not vegan)Contains evening primrose plant oil

Cold-pressed extraction without hexane is the key differentiator — preserving the natural fatty acid profile and avoiding solvent residues common in cheaper extraction methods. For women's health, skin hydration, and hormonal balance, this is one of the most trusted EPO products on Amazon by review volume.

IngredientEvening Primrose Seed Oil 1300mg (10% GLA = 130mg GLA per softgel)

Dose1300mg EPO per softgel; 130mg GLA

FormSoftgel

TestingYes — Non-GMO tested, third-party quality tested

1300mg EPO per softgel; 130mg GLAClinical range: 2-6 g daily (providing 160-480 mg GLA)

Partial dose

$0.50/serving$14.95 · 30.0 Count

Ideal for: Women seeking cold-pressed GLA from evening primrose for hormonal balance and skin health

Not ideal for: Those needing more than a 30-day supply in a single bottle, or who prefer a lower-dose mini-gel format

Pros

Cold-pressed without hexane — preserves GLA integrity and avoids solvent residues
High potency 1300mg delivers 130mg GLA per single softgel
34,426 reviews at 4.6 stars — highly validated for women's health applications
Non-GMO tested and cGMP manufactured in the USA

Cons

30-count bottle requires monthly reorder — also available in 60-count
130mg GLA per softgel is at the lower range of clinical doses; higher GLA needs require 2+ capsules
Contains gelatin softgel shell — not vegan

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Read full Evening Primrose Seed Oil 1300mg (10% GLA = 130mg GLA per softgel)guide →

Solgar Evening Primrose Oil 1300 mg, 60 Softgels - Promotes Healthy Skin - Nutritional Support for Women - Non-GMO, Gluten Free, Dairy Free - 60 Servings

Solgar

3,223 Amazon reviews

8.8/10

(3,223)

Delivers the highest GLA content in our lineup — 156mg per softgel from 1300mg of cold-pressed EPO. Fewer softgels needed to reach clinical doses. Solgar has over 75 years of supplement manufacturing experience. Non-GMO and free of common allergens.

IngredientCold-Pressed Evening Primrose Oil

Dose1300mg evening primrose oil (156mg GLA) per softgel

FormSoftgel

TestingThird-Party Tested, Non-GMO

1300mg evening primrose oil (156mg GLA) per softgelClinical range: 2-6 g daily (providing 160-480 mg GLA)

Partial dose

$0.20/serving$12.20 · 60 Softgels

Ideal for: Highest GLA per softgel, fewer capsules needed

Not ideal for: Those who struggle with large softgels or want the cheapest option.

Pros

Highest GLA per softgel (156mg)
Fewer capsules for clinical dose
75+ years of Solgar manufacturing quality
Non-GMO, allergen-free

Cons

Large 1300mg softgel
Premium price ($0.24/serving)
Only 60 softgels per bottle

Buy Nowon Amazon

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Nordic Naturals Omega Woman, Lemon - 120 Soft Gels - 500 mg Omega-3 + 800 mg Evening Primrose Oil - Healthy Skin & Optimal Wellness - Non-GMO - 60 Servings

Nordic Naturals

2,061 Amazon reviews

8.5/10

(2,061)

Nordic Naturals is a leader in oil supplement quality, known for rigorous third-party testing and freshness standards. Smaller 500mg softgels are easier to swallow than 1000-1300mg alternatives. Every batch is tested for purity, freshness, and potency. Excellent choice for those prioritizing oil quality above all else.

IngredientCold-Pressed Evening Primrose Oil

Dose500mg evening primrose oil (68mg GLA) per softgel

FormSoftgel

TestingThird-Party Tested for Purity

500mg evening primrose oil (68mg GLA) per softgelClinical range: 2-6 g daily (providing 160-480 mg GLA)

Below clinical dose

$0.52/serving$31.30 · 60 Servings

Ideal for: Smaller softgels from a premium oil brand

Not ideal for: Those wanting the highest GLA per capsule or best value.

Pros

Premium oil quality and freshness standards
Smaller, easier-to-swallow softgels
Nordic Naturals purity testing
Ideal for sensitive individuals

Cons

Most expensive ($0.28/serving)
Lower GLA per softgel (68mg)
Needs 2-4 softgels for clinical dose

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Read full Cold-Pressed Evening Primrose Oilguide →

Pairs Well With

Frequently taken together based on complementary benefits

Flaxseed Oil

Sports Research Vegan Flaxseed Oil 1200mg

1 veggie softgel: 1,200mg oil / 720mg ALA omega-3

(1,623)$0.14/serving

Buy Nowon Amazon

Browse all supplement comparisons →

How to Choose

Why GLA Content Matters

Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) is the key active compound in evening primrose oil. The body converts GLA to anti-inflammatory prostaglandins. Look for products listing specific GLA content per softgel — typically 8-12% of total oil weight. A 1000mg EPO softgel should contain approximately 100-120mg GLA.

Cold-Pressed vs Solvent-Extracted

Cold-pressed evening primrose oil is extracted without heat or chemical solvents, preserving GLA integrity and avoiding hexane residues. Solvent-extracted oils are cheaper but may contain trace solvents and have degraded fatty acid profiles. Always choose cold-pressed, hexane-free EPO.

Dosing for Different Goals

Breast tenderness / PMS: 1000-3000mg EPO daily (starting 2 weeks before menstruation). Skin health (eczema): 2000-4000mg EPO daily. General omega-6 support: 500-1000mg daily. Take with food for best absorption of fat-soluble fatty acids.

Ready to Buy?

NOW Foods Evening Primrose Oil 1000mg

9/10$0.19/servingBest for: overall value and quality EPO

The best evening primrose oil supplement provides 1000-1500mg of EPO per softgel standardized to 9-10% GLA (gamma-linolenic acid), from non-GMO cold-pressed seeds.

Evidence:Meta-analysis (2009) · 6 RCTs · n=450 · moderate confidence[#1]

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Read Our Full Evening Primrose Oil Research Guide

Evidence level, dosage, side effects, and more →

Already taking supplements?

Check how Evening Primrose Oil fits with your current stack — interactions, timing, and optimization →

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best evening primrose oil supplement?

NOW Foods Evening Primrose Oil 1000mg is our top pick — it delivers 120mg GLA per softgel from cold-pressed, hexane-free oil at $0.13/serving. For a higher-dose option, Solgar Evening Primrose Oil 1300mg provides 156mg GLA in a single softgel.

How much evening primrose oil should I take daily?

Common doses range from 500mg to 3000mg daily depending on your goal. For PMS and breast tenderness, 1000-3000mg daily is typical. For skin health support, 2000-4000mg daily has been studied. Start with 1000mg daily and increase as needed. Always take with food.

What does GLA in evening primrose oil do?

GLA (gamma-linolenic acid) is an omega-6 fatty acid that the body converts to dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid (DGLA), which produces anti-inflammatory prostaglandins. This is why evening primrose oil is used for inflammatory skin conditions, PMS, and breast tenderness.

Evidence:Review (2019) · low confidence[#2]

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Supplement Guide

Ceramides (Phytoceramides)

Bottom line: 350 mg daily of phytoceramides restores the skin moisture barrier and improves hydration within weeks, with moderate clinical evidence and excellent safety.

Condition Guide

Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)

References

Meta-analysisBayles B, Usatine R (2009). Evening primrose oil. American Family Physician. PubMed
ReviewMahboubi M (2019). Evening primrose (Oenothera biennis) oil in management of female ailments. Journal of Menopausal Medicine. DOI PubMed