The Borage plant is an herb commonly used in cooking, home remedies, and naturopathic medicine. It is a native of Syria, but over time has established itself in other regions. Given the alternate name of Starflower, Borage is known for its beautiful and edible flowers. While blossoms may be white or pink, the blue Starflower is most common.

Throughout time, Borage has been celebrated for its uses in food preparation. Borage has a high popularity in European countries, particularly Germany. Often, the herb is an ingredient found in soups, salads, sauces, and drinks.

Both the aroma and taste of Borage are likened to that of a Cucumber. Leaves and flowers are most widely used, but stems are occasionally tossed into stews as a vegetable. Borage flowers are said to have a honey-like taste and are commonly candied then placed atop cakes for decoration.

Borage’s first known uses were culinary and naturopathic in nature. Believed to evoke feelings of contentment by the Romans and bravery by the Greeks, the herb’s leaves were ground down into a powder and mixed with wine. Borage’s cooling properties, fresh taste and healing abilities made it an ideal addition to any beverage or meal.

Today, Borage remains an exciting ingredient for chefs around the world, but its uses as a home remedy and dietary supplement are making it a household name.

Seeds of the Borage plant, when broken down, contain oil that is famed for its high levels of linoleic acid. This acid, once consumed, combines with other chemicals in the human body to produce a substance called GLA (gamma linolenic acid). The newly created GLA is then identified as Omega-6.

Omega-6 is a fatty acid required by the human body to function properly. It works in conjunction with its more infamous counterpart, Omega-3 to maintain essential body systems like brain function and cellular health.

Due to its Omega-6 capabilities, proponents of Borage oil claim that it has the power to treat and prevent many familiar ailments. Arthritis, eczema, and PMS (Pre-menstrual Syndrome) are the most common of these conditions, but Borage is considered effective for these illnesses as well:

• High Blood Pressure
• Cold symptoms such as cough and fever
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome
• Menopause
• Depression
• Prevention of certain types of cancer

While naturopathic physicians and herbal healers stand firm in their recommendation for Borage oil, its medical validity has yet to be confirmed. Limited clinical studies have shown little or no evidence in support of claims that Borage oil is a viable treatment for these conditions.

This is not to say that Borage oil is ineffectual in the reduction of symptoms, as many can attest to the herbs benefits through personal experience. It is to say; however, that individuals who are interested in supplementing with the herb should first consult their physician.

Unwanted side effects and serious health issues can arise when any medicine is overly or improperly used. This is particularly important when taking supplements that are unproven and unregulated by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration).