Evening primrose oil

Evening primrose oil (CAS 308064-97-3), also known as Oenotherae biennis oleum and commonly abbreviated as EPO, is a cold-pressed seed oil. Also marketed as Oenotherae biennis oleum; EPO.

Where is Evening primrose oil used?

• Nutraceutical and dietary supplement manufacturing: encapsulated in softgels
• Hormonal and skin health formulations: GLA-rich omega-6 supplement
• Personal care: skin-conditioning agent in facial serums, creams and hair treatments supporting moisture retention and skin barrier function
• Pharmaceutical-grade EPO is used in standardized oral dosage forms requiring documented GLA content and traceability.
• Food-grade material: functional food enrichment for essential fatty acid supplementation

Good to know: Sourced primarily for its fatty acid profile rather than as a neutral carrier oil. Specifications often define minimum GLA content, commonly 8–10%.

Commercial specifications

• Minimum GLA content commonly 8–10%
• Refined and cold-pressed variants commercially available; cold-pressed preferred in premium cosmetic and nutraceutical applications
• Grades: food-grade, cosmetic-grade, pharmaceutical-grade (BP/Ph. Eur. compliant)
• Clear to pale yellow liquid, typically in bulk drums or IBCs