Borage Leaf

Borage Leaf C/S

Also known as

Borago officinalis, Beebread, Bugloss, and Star Flower.

Introduction

Borage is a native plant of Southern Europe, having become naturalized all over Europe and the United States. It is a prolific grower, having a tendency to sprout up in abandoned lawns and junkyards. At one time borage was an essential herb for beekeepers, grown to help bees produce more honey. Traditionally, it was also grown as an ornamental, or boiled as a pot herb.

Borage is noted for having a cucumber like flavor and is easily recognized by its white prickly hairs and bright blue, star-shaped flowers. Its dark green leaves are gently curved and its fruits consist of dark brown nutlets (seeds) in groups of four. Both Pliny the Elder and Dioscorides claimed that borage was used to “exhilarate the mind”, comfort the heart, drive sorrow away, and increase one’s general happiness.

Constituents

Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), beta-carotene, choline, mucilage, fiber, B vitamins, and trace minerals.

Parts Used

Seed, or flower and herb.

Typical Preparations

Seed oil, or flower and herb used in tinctures, teas, and encapsulations.

Summary

Borage makes an excellent companion plant alongside tomatoes, cabbages, and other crops, helping to ward away harmful insects and worms. It is also said to improve the yield and disease resistance of the accompanied plants.

Precautions

The leaf and flower contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids which are toxic to the liver when consumed internally. For this reason, internal use is not recommended except under the guidance of a qualified health practitioner. Not recommended while pregnant. Not recommended for long term use.