Rootwork

Borage

Borago officinalis

BoraginaceaeMediterranean region

Description

overall appearance

Annual herb growing 2-3 feet tall with hairy stems and leaves; star-shaped blue flowers.

roots

Taproot system extending 12-18 inches deep; fibrous lateral roots.

stem

Thick, hollow, branching stems covered with bristly hairs; succulent texture.

leaves

Large, oval leaves 3-6 inches long; rough, hairy texture; alternate arrangement; gray-green color.

flowers

Star-shaped blue flowers with 5 petals; pink buds opening to bright blue; drooping clusters.

fruits/seeds

Four small, dark nutlets; rich in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA); important for oil production.

Active Compounds

Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA; 20-24% of seed oil; highest natural source)Mucilage (soothing, anti-inflammatory)Pyrrolizidine alkaloids (hepatotoxic; limit internal use of leaves)Saponins (anti-inflammatory, expectorant)Tannins (astringent, anti-inflammatory)Potassium nitrate (diuretic effects)

Traditional Uses

  • Inflammation and fever reduction
  • Respiratory ailments and coughs
  • Skin conditions and wound healing
  • Depression and melancholy
  • Lactation support
  • Adrenal support and stress

Modern Applications

  • Anti-inflammatory support (seed oil)
  • Skin health and eczema (topical oil)
  • Hormonal balance (GLA content)
  • Cardiovascular health
  • Rheumatoid arthritis support
  • Adrenal fatigue and stress recovery

⚠️ Safety Information

Contraindications

  • Liver disease (pyrrolizidine alkaloids in leaves)
  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding (alkaloid concerns with leaves)
  • Long-term internal use of leaves
  • Seizure disorders (theoretical)

Side Effects

  • Generally well-tolerated (seed oil)
  • Liver toxicity with excessive leaf consumption
  • Digestive upset with large doses
  • Skin irritation possible with topical use

Drug Interactions

  • Liver-metabolized medications (if using leaves)
  • Anticoagulant medications (seed oil may enhance effects)
  • Phenothiazines (seed oil interaction)

Parts Used

  • Seeds (oil extraction - primary commercial use)
  • Leaves (traditional culinary and medicinal)
  • Flowers (culinary garnish and mild medicinal)
  • Seed oil (standardized GLA content)

Preparation Methods

Cold-pressed for highest GLA content

Fresh flowers steeped in hot water; beautiful blue color

LIMITED USE - 1 teaspoon dried leaves per cup (pyrrolizidine concern)

Fresh crushed leaves for topical inflammation

Seeds or flowers in carrier oil for topical use

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Disclaimer: For educational purposes only. This is not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.