Borage, a whole story
Borage (Borago officinalis) has been known and used since Antiquity and the Middle Ages. It is credited with aphrodisiac virtues at this time. In Europe or Asia, it can be used both in cooking and in care. A true all-rounder, its uses are multiple over the centuries since it even ends up being used for animals to treat their inflammatory and pulmonary diseases. It was therefore appreciated for its healing properties as well as for its taste. A plant with multiple virtues, then, but how is it used today?
How is borage beneficial?
On the one hand, borage stimulates sweat production and lactation. It is therefore recommended for its purifying and sudorific properties. On the other hand, its flowers decorate salads and would be beneficial for digestion. Indeed, they are a source of mucilage and therefore facilitate transit.
As for borage seeds, they are used to obtain oil which is exceptionally rich in essential fatty acids. It can be used to calm the pain of polyarthritis (anti-inflammatory properties), to fight against eczema, psoriasis, herpes or in general against skin dryness, wrinkles or even stretch marks (it regenerates the skin and restores its suppleness, elasticity and tone).
How to use borage?
Borage is ingested or applied. Orally, you can simply consume the fresh flowers as a pleasure. You can also steep the leaves. The recommended dosage is 20 grams of dry plant per liter of water.
Like any dry plant, if you are looking for regularity in the concentration of active principle, prefer borage oil in capsules or capsules. For example, you can take 2 borage oil capsules morning and evening 5 days a week following a radiotherapy session to promote tissue regeneration.
Externally, it is also borage oil that is applied directly to the skin or to the hair. It is possible to combine various essential oils (EO) depending on the desired effects. Count around 10% EO for 90% borage oil.
Borage contraindication
Borage is not recommended for pregnant women or children. It can cause nausea or digestive problems. However, these inconveniences only occur in case of consumption in high doses. If you take a reasonable dosage, borage is safe. However, the aerial parts should be used with caution. This is because pyrrolizidine compounds can be dangerous for people with liver problems. Before using borage, especially in capsules, talk to your doctor.
Also remember that borage oil oxidizes quickly. It is therefore necessary to mix it with other vegetable oils with strong antioxidant power (jojoba wax, argan oil, sesame oil, etc.) to be able to use it without any problem.
