Borage oil is an extract made from the seeds of the Borago officinalis plant.
Borage oil is highly valued for its rich content of gamma linolenic acid (GLA), a fatty acid believed to have anti-inflammatory properties beneficial for various health conditions.
Continue reading to explore the potential benefits, as well as the limitations and considerations of using borage oil. Always consult your healthcare provider before using borage oil for any medical purpose.
About the borage plant
The borage plant, recognized for its striking star-shaped blue flowers, originally hails from North Africa and the Mediterranean. It has since been cultivated in North America and Europe. Known colloquially as starflower, this plant also boasts edible leaves.
Borage oil benefits and uses
Borage seed oil is believed to have potential benefits for:
- inflammation
- acne
- breast pain
- cardiovascular disease
- eczema
- menopause
- rosacea
- arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis (RA)
Anecdotal information suggests other potential uses of borage oil, including:
- adrenal fatigue
- breast milk production
- diabetes
- epilepsy
- premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
- scleroderma
- Sjogren’s disease
Gamma linolenic acid
Borage oil is rich in GLA (gamma linolenic acid), a type of fatty acid also found in other seeds, nuts, and vegetable oils. GLA converts to prostaglandin E1 (PGE1), which acts like a hormone, helping reduce inflammation associated with skin conditions and cardiovascular issues. Borage oil is particularly noted for its high GLA content compared to other seed oils.
While more research is needed, studies on borage oil and its GLA content support some of the anecdotal evidence.
Anti-inflammatory
A 2014 study comparing borage oil, fish oil, and a combination of both found that daily intake of 1.8 grams of borage oil or 2.1 grams of fish oil, or both, helped alleviate rheumatoid arthritis (RA) symptoms in 74 participants over an 18-month period. The study suggests that these oils may potentially replace NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) for some individuals, thereby reducing associated side effects. It also hints that RA patients might be able to lower their intake of disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs.
However, the study noted a limitation: By the end, about 45% of participants had dropped out, leaving a predominantly male and African American participant group. The researchers attributed this to disparities in healthcare access faced by People of Color in the United States, suggesting that those without access to conventional medical care may be more likely to participate in studies offering treatment.
Skin barrier
Research on borage oil’s effects on eczema yields mixed results. A 2018 review of studies involving topical application of borage oil and other GLA-containing plant oils suggests that borage oil’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties may benefit individuals with atopic dermatitis.
Conversely, a 2013 review analyzing 19 studies on oral borage oil for eczema found no significant benefits compared to placebos, indicating that topical application might show more promise for managing skin conditions.
Other possible uses
Borage oil might also be considered for:
- adrenal gland problems
- arthritis
- gingivitis
- heart conditions
- menopause
- PMS symptoms
Forms of borage oil
Borage oil is available in various forms, primarily as an oil extracted from the plant’s seeds and also as nutritional supplements. These supplements often come in capsule or soft gel form for oral consumption.
All forms of borage oil contain GLA (gamma linolenic acid), which is its primary active component. GLA is also found in other oils such as evening primrose and black currant.
The choice of which form of borage oil to use depends on the intended purpose. Topical products are suitable for skin and hair applications but are not meant to be ingested orally. It’s important to carefully read labels for usage instructions and precautions.
Oral formulations may be more effective for treating various types of inflammation, including issues related to vascular health.
Borage oil side effects
Although generally considered safe, borage oil may cause certain side effects.
Common oral supplement side effects
Oral supplements of borage oil may occasionally lead to minor side effects. While not conclusively researched, these may include:
- bloating
- burping
- headache
- indigestion
- gas
- nausea
- vomiting
Additionally, prolonged use of oral borage oil may have potential long-term effects and is generally not recommended.
Allergic reaction signs
Although GLA and borage oil are not typically toxic, seek medical advice if you experience signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
- hives
- rash
- swelling
- sudden fatigue
- dizziness
If you have difficulty breathing, call 911 or your local emergency services immediately.
Less common, serious side effects
Consult with a healthcare professional before using borage oil if you:
- have liver disease
- are taking medications affecting your liver
- are on medications affecting blood clotting
Inform your doctor of any borage oil use, especially prior to any surgical procedures.
Although anecdotal reports have raised concerns about possible carcinogenic effects of borage oil, residual pyrrolizidine alkaloid compounds are typically minimal after processing.
Caution
Some formulations of borage oil may still pose risks to liver health, so ensure any products you consume are certified as hepatotoxic PA-free.
Furthermore, there have been documented cases of seizures linked to excessive borage oil consumption.
In
While this case alone does not definitively establish a causal relationship between oral borage oil and seizures, it underscores the importance of using caution with herbal supplements, especially when taken orally. Insufficient research exists to definitively claim their safety.
How to use borage oil for skin and hair
Before applying topical borage oil to your skin, it’s essential to dilute it with a carrier oil. Always consult with a healthcare professional before using borage oil.
Here are steps to use it effectively:
- Mix up to 12 drops of borage oil with every 1 ounce of almond, jojoba, or olive oil before application.
- Apply the oil thinly to the affected area twice daily.
- Alternatively, apply the oil to an undershirt or spot-treat it close to the skin, particularly effective for back areas, as suggested by
research from 2007 . However, consult with a doctor before trying this method.
According to clinical studies, it may take several weeks or months for the oil to achieve maximum effectiveness, so consistency in application is key for desired outcomes.