Herbalists have been aware of the benefits of borage oil since as early as the 1600s when Europeans blended borage leaves and flowers into a wine that was reputed to relieve boredom and dispel sadness. I prefer to call it a vintage herb, but no matter which adjective you use, it's one plant that's still very useful.
All parts of the borage plant, from its stubbly stems to its blue star shaped blooms, have been used in many parts of the world for over centuries for its healing qualities. Aside from that, the borage plant is also used as a flavoring for foods.
DIY Anti Aging Borage Scrub Recipe
Borage oil is basically derived from the seeds of the borage plant - borago officinalis - which is a huge plant with star shaped blue flowers that is mostly found in parts of Europe and North Africa and is also naturalized in many places in North America.
Modern science has not found much evidence to support the claim that the herb has any therapeutic effects, but there are many findings that there are many benefits of borage oil from the seed of the plant that aids in healing many conditions. Borage oil is said to be useful for treating rheumatoid arthritis as well as menstrual problems.
Health Benefits of Borage Oil
Numerous research has shown that borage oil, just like the evening primrose oil and black currant seed oil, contains a powerful fatty acid known as gamma linolenic acid or GLA which contributes a large part of its medicinal effect; however, unlike evening primrose oil, borage oil boasts more than twice as much GLA. Additionally, borage oil contains a good amount of the essential fatty acid omega-6 fatty acid.
The GLA in the borage oil is transformed into a hormone-like substance that has the ability to block inflammation which makes it a great solution for arthritis and other inflammatory conditions.
As if that weren't enough, borage oil is helpful for reducing the symptoms of eczema and psoriasis, acne, and rosacea - all inflammatory conditions. It has also been said to alleviate the inflammation related to lupus, as well as prevent nerve damage from diabetes, fight damage from multiple sclerosis, ease cough, soothe throat disorders, treat Alzheimer's-related memory deficiencies, reduce stress and high blood pressures, nourish nails, scalp, and hair, treat gout, and counter impotence and female infertility.
With its multiple uses and functions, borage oil is now popular in the form of softgels, but there is a danger of liver toxicity. It can contain tiny amounts of alkaloid compounds called pyrrolizidine alkaloids that can be toxic to the liver.
Simply make sure to buy borage oil that is free of these alkaloids. The packaging should be labeled "PA-free", and most manufacturers of borage oil supplements will verify this.
