Borage: a plant with many virtues

Borage (Borago officinalis) is a plant native to Syria, Iran and Turkey, but is now cultivated throughout the world for its many medicinal virtues and culinary uses. This plant with its starry blue flowers is also popular in cosmetics and aromatherapy.

In this article, we'll be exploring the health benefits of borage, its origin and how to use it as a dietary supplement.

The benefits of borage

Borage is mainly used for the oil extracted from its seeds. This oil is rich in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an essential fatty acid in the omega-6 family. It also contains vitamins A and E, as well as minerals such as magnesium, calcium and potassium.

Here are some of the main benefits of borage:

• Skin improvement : Thanks to its gamma-linolenic acid content, borage oil is renowned for its moisturising and anti-inflammatory properties. It can therefore be used to treat acne, eczema, psoriasis and other skin problems.
• Reduced symptoms of premenstrual syndrome : Consumption of borage oil can help regulate hormones and reduce the symptoms associated with premenstrual syndrome, such as pain, mood swings and water retention.
• Relief from joint pain: Borage oil has anti-inflammatory properties that can help relieve joint pain caused by arthritis and other inflammatory conditions.
• Combating ageing : Thanks to its high antioxidant content, borage oil can help fight free radicals and protect skin cells from premature ageing.
• Strengthening the immune system : borage contains essential nutrients for maintaining a strong immune system, including vitamin C and omega-6 fatty acids.

Uses as a food supplement

Borage can be consumed in several ways as a dietary supplement:

• Borage oil : As mentioned above, borage oil is rich in gamma-linolenic acid and can be taken in capsule form to reap its benefits for the skin, hormones and joints.
• Dried leaves : Dried borage leaves can be used to make tea or added to dishes to take advantage of their diuretic and decongestant properties.
• Infusion : By mixing borage leaves and flowers in hot water, you can prepare an infusion with soothing and antispasmodic properties.
• Borage juice : This plant can also be pressed to extract its juice, which can be consumed pure or mixed with other fruit juices to benefit from its vitamins and minerals.

Although borage is generally considered to be safe and has no side effects, it is always advisable to consult a health professional before taking it as a dietary supplement, especially if you are pregnant or taking medication.

Origin and history of borage

Borage is a plant belonging to the Boraginaceae family and originating in the Middle East. Its name comes from the Latin "borra", meaning "hair", in reference to its hairy leaves. It is thought to have been introduced to Europe during the Middle Ages and is now widely cultivated throughout the world.

Historically, borage was used as a medicinal and ornamental plant, and its flowers were also added to salads for their slightly sweet flavour. It was also reputed to have aphrodisiac properties.

Today, borage is mainly grown to produce oil from its seeds, but it is also popular as a medicinal and culinary plant.

Conclusion

Borage is a plant with many health and beauty benefits. As a dietary supplement, it can provide numerous benefits thanks to its richness in essential fatty acids and nutrients. However, it is important to always consult a health professional before taking it as a dietary supplement.

Don't hesitate to include this plant in your diet to enjoy its health and beauty benefits!

Sources :

- Borago officinalis: A review on traditional uses, ethnomedicine, phytochemistry, pharmacology, and toxicity
- Plants traditionally prescribed to treat movement disorders as remedies against Parkinson's disease
- Effect of evening primrose oil and borage oil on the immune response of healthy elderly subjects.