Borage Herb Profile
Also known as- Borago officinalis, Beebread, Bugloss, and Star Flower.
Introduction
Borage is a native plant of the Middle East that has become naturalized in Europe and the United States. It's fair to say borage "grows like a weed." This useful herb grows abundantly in abandoned lawns and garbage dumps.
At one time borage was an essential herb for beekeepers, grown to help bees produce more honey. Borage is easily recognized by its white prickly hairs and bright blue, star-shaped flowers. Its dark green leaves are gently curved and its fruits consist of dark brown nutlets in groups of four.
Constituents
Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), beta-carotene, choline, mucilage, fiber, B vitamins, and trace minerals.
Parts Used
Seed, or flower and herb.
Typical Preparations
Seed oil, or flower and herb used in tinctures, teas, and encapsulations.
Summary
Borage seed oil is used as an anti-inflammatory for chronic conditions, notably arthritis, but also asthma, chronic bronchitis, eczema, psoriasis, and other skin conditions.
Borage flower, stems, and leaves are used in diuretics to support treatment of urinary tract conditions and weak hearts as well as to support circulation to treat varicose veins. The herb, but not the seed oil, induces sweating and sedates.
Precautions
Reports that Borage seed oil contains toxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids have been found to be false. However the herb, leaf and flower does and its internal use is prohibited.
Not recommneded while pregnant. Not recommended for long term use.
