Oenothera biennis

Other names: Night candles

Oenothera biennis, also known as Night Candle, is a plant native to North America that has since spread to Europe and Asia. It is a biennial to short-lived perennial plant that can reach heights of up to 150 cm. Its leaves are a lush green colour and the stem end produces yellow flowers that open at dusk. In the Middle Ages, this plant was considered magical and was attributed with many healing properties. Today, it is best known for its seeds, which contain a valuable oil - evening primrose oil.

Evening primrose oil is produced by pressing the seeds and is particularly important for its high content of γ-linolenic acid, one of the unsaturated fatty acids. This acid has a proven positive effect on the human body and is important for the proper function of many bodily processes. For this reason, bean oil is often used in the cosmetics industry for the production of skin and body creams, hair masks and various balms. Its beneficial effects on the skin are undeniable - it nourishes, hydrates, improves elasticity and helps prevent wrinkles. Thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, it is also used to treat various skin problems such as eczema and acne. But evening primrose oil also finds its application in the health sector, where it is used to alleviate the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome, menopause, diabetes and other health problems. It is also included in various dietary supplements for its antioxidant properties.