Borage Seed Oil Profile (Organic)
Botanical Name- Borago officinalis
Origin- USA
Extraction- Cold Pressed/Unrefined
Shelf life- 3-6 months
Kosher Certified- Yes
Notes- This particular oil should be kept refrigerated and away from natural and artificial lighting. No additives, preservatives, antioxidants, or other foreign agents have been used or included in the manufacturing of this oil. Suitable for food and cosmetic use. Certified organic by OTCO.
Specifications
Color- Yellow with a very faint green hue
Odor- Characteristic
Acid Value- 2.6
Heavy Metals- None Detected
Pesticides- None Detected
Peroxide Value- 1.8
Non-Saponifiables- 0.78%
Saponification Value- 190.3
Iodine Value-
Specific Gravity- 0.917
pH- 4.26
Fatty Acids
Docosenoic- 2.6%
Icosenoic- 4.0%
Gamma Linolenic- 20.2%
Linoleic- 36.5%
Oleic- 18.7%
Palmitic- 10.6%
Stearic- 4.6%
An Introduction
Pressed from the seeds of the beautiful Borage plant (Borago officinalis), Borage Seed Oil is known to be beneficial for both topical and internal applications. Borage Seed Oil has the highest concentration of gamma linolenic acid (GLA) naturally found, higher than in any other plant source! GLA is an Omega-6 fatty acid, an essential fatty acid. Omega-6 fatty acids cannot be produced in our bodies, but must be obtained from food sources. Essential Fatty Acids are necessary for brain function, regulation of metabolism, and for the growth and health of bones, hair, and skin.
Medicinal Uses
Because of its extremely high levels of gamma linolenic acid, Borage Seed Oil has many potential uses. It has been widely studied for its ability to calm and reduce inflammation, and has been used successfully to alleviate the pain, swelling, and joint stiffness associated with rheumatoid arthritis. Borage Seed Oil has also been used with positive results for many different skin disorders, such as psoriasis, eczema, acne, rosacea, and prematurely matured skin. Furthermore, studies have begun to show that it may be able to be beneficial for treating and preventing a malady of conditions including:
Menstrual cycles: breast inflammation and cramping
Nails, scalp, and hair: growth, nourishment, dry conditions
Osteoporosis: calcium deposits and absorption, bone strength and growth
Menopausal symptoms: hot flashes
Weight loss: metabolism regulation
Respiratory conditions, sore throat, cough: expectorant, mucilage
Nerve disorders for those with Diabetes and Multiple Sclerosis: assists with nerve function
Dry-eye conditions and pressure in the eye
Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
High blood pressure and heart disease
Ulcers: anti-inflammatory
Lupus: anti-inflammatory
Impotence: promotes blood flow
Reduction of abnormal blood clotting: promotes blood flow
Alzheimer's: assists with nerve impulses
Since Borage Seed Oil is such an important source of gamma linolenic acid, it may prove to be invaluable for many different ailments and conditions. Nonetheless, it is undeniably beneficial for the entire body's health and well-being.
To use Borage Seed Oil in your food preparations, mix it into the meal just before serving. This oil should not be heated, and must be used cold to take full advantage of its health benefits. For cosmetic applications, either apply directly, or add to your recipe after all heating has taken place.
Precautions:
If you are currently on medication, speak to your healthcare provider before using Borage Seed Oil, as potential interactions or side effects may occur. Borage Seed Oil should be avoided during pregnancy and nursing, as potential risks are unknown at this time. Borage Seed Oil should not be used in high doses or over a longer period of time without prior approval by a healthcare provider. This oil may cause loose stools, and possibly minor stomach complaints.
