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DISCLAIMER: These pages are presented solely as a source of INFORMATION and ENTERTAINMENT and to provide stern warnings against use where appropriate. No claims are made for the efficacy of any herb nor for any historical herbal treatment. In no way can the information provided here take the place of the standard, legal, medical practice of any country. Additionally, some of these plants are extremely toxic and should be used only by licensed professionals who have the means to process them properly into appropriate pharmaceuticals. One final note: many plants were used for a wide range of illnesses in the past, but be aware that many of the historical uses have proven to be ineffective for the problems to which they were applied.


EVENING PRIMROSE
(Oenothera biennis)
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PROPAGATION: By seed. Hardy biennial. Will self-sow generously.
NEEDS: Full to part sun. Almost any soil except arid.
HARVEST: Entire plant. Flowers most useful.
FLOWERS: Late July to early August with some bloom continuing to late August.

USES

MEDICINAL:
Said to be a remedy for coughs of colds.
Has been made into an ointment for rashes and other skin irritations.
Seed oil may be useful for eczema, asthma, migraines, and inflammations.
Native Americans used the root tea for obesity and the poulticed root for bruises.
Oil of Evening Primrose is popular for control of cholesterol.
Root is currently being investigated for aid in the battle against Multiple Sclerosis.

CULINARY:
In Europe the roots are eaten like olives after dinner.

INSECT:
A terrific trap crop for Japanese Beetles. Place several inches of water in an old tin can or other suitable container then add a top layer of baby oil or mineral oil. Beetles can be knocked directly into the can and the oil will kill them. Or, beetles may be sprayed directly but do not consider using sprayed plants for herbal considerations.

COMMENTS:
Source of magnesium.



©2001 by Ernestina Parziale, CH

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