Returns to the GardenBed.com Gardening & Plants Homepage
  Gardenbed.com Gardening XML sitemap
Gardenbed web design spacer  
Gardening web design spacer
Species web design spacer
Gardening web design spacer
Gardening web design spacer
Species web design spacer
Plant web design spacer
 

Oenothera biennis
Evening primrose
(1 Page of 5)

 
The Oenothera biennis plant species is found in Eastern N. America - Labrador, south to Florida and Texas. Naturalized in Britain. It is a member of the Onagraceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Evening primrose. Some home gardeners know the variety as Onagra biennis.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses
 
Latin Name:  Oenothera biennis
Common Name:  Evening primrose
Family:  Onagraceae
Author:  L.
 
Known Hazards:  None known
 
Mature Height:  1.2   Mature Width:  
 
Habitat:  Dunes, roadsides, railway banks and waste places in Britain[17], often in sandy soils[4].



Medicinal Information:  The bark and the leaves are astringent and sedative[4, 21]. They have proved of use in the treatment of gastro-intestinal disorders of a functionl origin, whooping cough and asthma[4]. A syrup made from the flowers is also an effective treatment for whooping cough[7]. The bark is stripped from the flowering stem and dried for later use, the leaves are also harvested and dried at this time[4]. Evening primrose oil has become a well-known food supplement since the 1980's. Research suggests that the oil is potentially very valuable in the treatment of multiple sclerosis, pre-menstrual tension, hyperactivity etc[66]. It is also taken internally in the treatment of eczema, acne, brittle nails, rheumatoid arthritis and alcohol-related liver damage[238]. Regular consumption of the oil helps to reduce blood cholesterol levels and lower the blood pressure[21, 66]. The seed is a good source of gamma-linolenic acid, an unsaturated fatty acid which assists the production of hormone-like substances[222, 238]. This process is commonly blocked in the body, causing disorders that affect the uterine muscles, nervous system and metabolism[238]. The poulticed root is applied to piles and bruises[222]. A tea made from the roots is used in the treatment of obesity and bowel pains[222].

For further Oenothera biennis gardening information
click on one of the blue links below

 
Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses
 

The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'.
View their bibliography
Useful Edible Plants Future

 


Gardenbed web design spacer
GardenBed.com © Copyright 2008 Calvin Wills of Khor Wills & Associates Pty Ltd (ABN: 59 128 091 869).  All Rights Reserved