Evening Primrose Oil (EPO) is a rich source of fatty acids in the form of linoleic acid and gamma linolenic acid (GLA). As Linoleic acid cannot be synthesised by the body it has to be ingested. The GLA in EPO helps the body to produce beneficial prostaglandins which assist in the balancing of a womans hormonal system, giving relief from the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Production of GLA in the body is impaired by ageing, alcohol and smoking. EPO may also be of assistance in the treatment of eczema topically or through ingestion.