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Alternative medicine

By Mayo Clinic staff Evening primrose oil is a form of linoleic acid that's available as an over-the-counter supplement. Many women use evening primrose oil — taking one capsule up to three times a day — to manage breast pain and other symptoms of fibrocystic breast changes. Although the exact mechanism is unknown, experts speculate that evening primrose oil may replace linoleic acid in women who are deficient in this essential fatty acid. Restoring linoleic acid levels may make their breast tissues less sensitive to hormonal influences.
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DS01070

Aug. 20, 2008

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