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Echinea
Evening primrose oil
Echinacea
The root of the herb Echinacea purpurea - also known as the purple coneflower, is used to produce Echinacea extract, which is known for its antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal properties. In the UK, there are very strict rules around the advertising of Echinacea as a dietary supplement that means that it is difficult to describe its common uses.
How it works
It is believed that the active ingredients in Echinacea can help promote a healthy immune system and as such can help prevent the onset of many common infections such as colds and lingering bacterial infections. Some herbalists use it to treat the symptoms of tinnitis - a continuous ringing sensation in the ears.
Natural food sources
Echinacea does not naturally occur in our diets.
Recommended Daily Amounts (RDA)/ Safe Upper Levels (SUL) - Adult intake
There is no official RDA or SUL for Echinacea. As with all herbal formulations, choosing a standardised extract will ensure consistent levels of the active ingredients.
Precautions
Excessive use during pregnancy should be avoided. Those taking drugs to supress the immune system (e.g., following transplant surgery) should not take echinacea. It should not be taken for pro-longed periods.
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Evening primrose oil
Evening primrose oil is pressed from the seeds of the evening primrose plant Oenothera biennis L.
How it works
Evening primrose oil is rich in the essential omega-6 fatty acid linoleic acid (ALA) and gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). GLA is converted into hormone-like substances called prostaglandins that play an important role in controling a variety of body functions, including the regulation of hormones and promoting anti-inflammatory actions.
Evening primrose oil may be available on prescription for eczema, to help reduce inflammation, itching, and dryness. As a dietary supplement, it is very well known for its role in promoting hormonal balance and research has shown that pre-menstrual symptoms of irritability, depression, clumsiness, bloating, and breast pain may improve with evening primrose oil.
Natural food sources
Evening primrose oil does not naturally occur in our diets.
Recommended Daily Amounts (RDA)/ Safe Upper Levels (SUL) - Adult intake
There is no official RDA or SUL for Evening primrose oil. However, the most popular dosages in food supplements are 500mg and 1000mg.
Precautions
People who suffer from Epilepsy should consult their doctor before taking this product
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