Botanical name: Borago officinalis
Common names: Starflower, burrage, common borage, common bugloss, cool tankard.
Family: Boraginaceae
Actions: Emollient, demulcent, soothing diuretic, cardiac tonic, diaphoretic, adrenal tonic, expectorant, anti-inflammatory, anticoagulant, antitumorigenic, hormone balancer, anti-carcinogenic.
Harvest: Harvest borage in the morning, after the dew dries but before the heat of the day sets in. Ideally it should be harvested just before the flowers fully open, which is usually in summer to early fall.
Parts used: Flowers, leaves
Constituents: Gamma-linolenic acid, palmitic acid, oleic acid, stearic acid, linoleic acid, erucic acid, nervonic acid, eicosenoic acid, thesinine, potassium, calcium, mucilage and others.
Note: Borage contains a low level of pyrrolizidine alkaloids. These constituents have been linked to liver toxicity when used for long-term in large doses, or in those with compromised liver function.
Indications: Used to treat fevers, adrenal fatigue, endocrine disorders (flowers only), dry skin conditions, urinary tract infections, stress, exhaustion, eczema, menopausal symptoms, PMS, dysmenorrhea, rheumatoid arthritis, ADHD, pain, inflammation, preventative heart health, cancer prevention, tumours, Raynaud’s phenomenon and some forms of lupus (but not without a doctor’s guidance, and never if organs have been compromised).
Medicinal preparations:
Internal
Flowers are used both in culinary preparations and medicinally. You can eat them directly off the plant (they have a mild, pleasant taste), or use them in cold or hot infusions, elixirs, syrups and other preparations.
Use leaves only in those with no compromised organ function, and only for short-term use at modest doses. Do not consume them fresh, as they can be an irritant to tissues – they are best when dried and processed via infusion or encapsulation.
If you purchase a bottle of seed oil, you should check to ensure that it is certified free of pyrrolizidine alkaloids, and don't combine borage in a formula with other PA-containing herbs.
External
Using fresh leaves topically can cause contact dermatitis, so they should be processed in an oil infusion or other method before being applied to skin. The crushed, steeped leaves are helpful for bruising, inflammation and painful skin or musculoskeletal conditions. Flowers can be used in the same way, as an ingredient in infused oils, salves, washes, etc.
Contraindications
Do not use if pregnant or nursing, or if you have compromised organ function, a bleeding disorder, or a history of liver complications. Stop using for at least two weeks before undergoing surgery, due to its blood-thinning capacity and also its ability to interact with anesthesia. Consult with a physician before using if you are taking anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs, medications that increase liver metabolism of other substances, anticonvulsants, sedatives, antidepressants or other pharmaceuticals.
I suggest consulting a pharmacist or physician before starting any herbal supplement if you are taking a prescription medication or have serious underlying health concerns.
Energetic/traditional use:
Borage is traditionally known for being a herb of confidence and courage. It is used to infuse a soul with vigor, renew their strength and motivate them to have faith in themselves and conquer the world. It was used throughout history for grief and sorrow, easing depression by boosting the body’s defenses and lifting the spirits without being overstimulating. Crusaders, knights, explorers and warriors throughout history have used borage both symbolically and internally to bolster their courage before an adventure.
Disclaimer:
All material contained herein is provided for general information purposes only and should not be considered medical advice or consultation. Contact a reputable healthcare practitioner if you are in need of medical care.
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