Borage (Borago officinalis) is an annual herb which is cultivated for medicinal and culinary uses, although it is commercially cultivated for borage seed oil. It is used for the treatment of various diseases such as multiple sclerosis, diabetes, heart diseases, arthritis and eczema.
Latin Name
Borago officinalis
Other names for Borage
Burrage
Bugloss
Parts of plant used
Flowers, leaves
Phytochemicals in Borage
– gamma-linolenic acid (GLA)
– microsomal desaturase
– Delta6-fatty acid desaturase
– oleic acid
– palmitic acid
– stearic acid
– eicosenoic acid
– erucic acid
Medicinal uses
Hormone and Central Nervous System
Borage has been suggested to help relax the nervous system. The evidence suggests it can enhance communication between nerve cells, the pituitary gland, and the hypothalamus.
Relieves respiratory or breathing issues
Borage is commonly used for helping to relieve a sore throat and can be included in cough syrups.
Warnings
– Some people may experience skin irritation when handling fresh leaves.
– Some people may experience constipation after taking borage by mouth
– Long term chronic administration has led to liver toxicity.
Herbal Pharmacy
Infusion – 1 teaspoon steeped in a cup for 10 minutes, do not drink more than 1 cup per day
Syrup – to make a cough syrup 1 to 3 teaspoons can be taken (use for short term)
Tincture – 1 dropper can be taken up to 2 times daily (use for short term)
Harvesting
Reaches a height of 12 to 24 inches.
Commonly found in woodland areas.
References
The chemical composition, botanical characteristic and biological activities of Borago officinalis: a review. Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Medicine. 2014 Sep;7S1:S22-8.
His research on plant medicine has led to more than 45 publications and abstracts.This research has been presented at international meetings in the USA, France, Turkey, Peru, Israel, Austria, and Italy.
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