Borage

Borage oil comes from the fatty oil of the seeds and flower of Borago officinalis. It may contain between 20% and 26% of the essential fatty acid gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). GLA has anti-inflammatory effects because of increased production of 15-hydroxy fatty acid and prostaglandin E1 both metabolites of GLA, and astringent and sequestering effects.

Borage leaves are the dried leaves and flower clusters, which are harvested during the plant's flowering period and artificially dried at 104° F (40° C). They contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which are hepatotoxic and hepatocarcinogenic, and so may cause hepatic dysfunction. They also contain tannins, mucilage, malic acid, and potassium nitrate. In small amounts, borage may cause constipation because of its tannin content.

Borage's mucilage component may contribute to its expectorant effect; the malic acid and potassium nitrate components, to its mild diuretic effect. Borage is available as dried leaf or powder, fluid extract, oil, and tablets, in products such as Borage Bio-EFA, Borage Oil Softgels, Borage-Power, GLA-320 Borage Capsules, and Ultra GLA Capsules.

Benefits And Uses of Borage

Borage is used externally as an astringent, a poultice for inflammation, and a treatment for eczema. The oil is used as treatment for neurodermatitis and as a GLA supplement.

Borage is used orally for its sequestering and mucilaginous effects in treating coughs and throat illnesses. It's used as an anti-inflammatory for kidney and bladder disorders, and for rheumatism. Borage is used as an analgesic, cardiotonic, sedative, and diaphoretic, and to treat phlebitis and menopausal complaints.

Administration

• Oil: usually administered in vitamin capsules .
• For internal use: 1 oz dned leaves in 16 oz boiling water; 60 ml doses .
• Fluid extract: 2 to 4 ml by mouth.

Side Effects of Borage

Gamma-linolenic acid can prolong bleeding time. If used with anticonvulsants or phenothiazines, borage may lower the seizure threshold. Borage may increase the risk of bleeding if used with anticoagulants or antiplatelet agents.

Patients with liver disease or seizure disorders and those who are pregnant or breast-feeding should avoid use.

Clinical considerations

• Borage leaves contain the potentially toxic pyrrolizdine alkaloids.
• Liver function tests may be needed to help monitor patients for hepatotoxicity.
• If patients has a history of seizures and is taking an anticonvulsant, monitor him for seizure activity because borage may lower the seizure threshold.
• Borage leaves should be protected from light and moisture.
• If patient is pregnant or breast-feeding advise her not to use borage.
• Warn patient of the potential for hepatic dysfunction and carcinogenic effects of borage plant preparations.
• Advise patient that borage oil is usually safe and free from adverse effects when taken in therapeutic doses.
• Advise patient not to delay seeking appropriate medical treatment if symptoms persist after taking borage.
• Tell patient to remind prescriber and pharmacist of any herbal or dietary supplement that he's taking when obtaining a new prescription.
• Advise patient to consult his health care provider before using an herbal preparation because a treatment with proven efficacy may be available.

Research summary

The concepts behind the use of borage and the claims made regarding its effects have not yet been validated scientifically.