Borago officinalis

Borage

Boraginaceae

Evidence: ConflictingCaffeine Free MediterraneanStressRelaxationSkin Traditions

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Identity

Common Name: Borage
Scientific Name: Borago officinalis
Botanical Family: Boraginaceae
Native Region: Mediterranean
Cultivation Regions: Europe, North America, Worldwide temperate
Plant Parts Used: Leaves, Flowers, Seed oil
Synonyms: Starflower, Bee Plant, Tailor's Weed
Caffeine Level: Caffeine Free

A leafy annual with large oval rough hairy leaves and drooping clusters of vivid blue five-petalled star flowers with prominent black stamens. Both flowers and leaves are used.

Historical Background

Borage was the emblem of courage — 'I, borage, give courage' — used in medieval European cordials to lift the spirits and support the adrenal system. The seed oil later became a source of GLA.

Earliest recorded uses: Courage and mood, fever, mild respiratory and skin complaints.

Cultural significance: Strewed in taverns and stirred into 'cooling' summer cups; flowers candied and floated in drinks.

Classical
Pliny and Dioscorides describe borage for courage and mood.
Modern
Seed oil (PA-free) becomes a GLA supplement.

Traditional preparations:

Fresh leaf infusion
Flower garnish
Candied flowers

Traditional Uses

These uses document historical traditions and do not imply proven effectiveness.

Traditional European Herbalism

Leaf infusion as a mild diaphoretic and 'cordial' for mood and the adrenal system; flowers as a garnish.

Flavor & Aroma

Mild cucumberSlightly sweetGreen

Aroma: Cool, cucumber-like, fresh

Tea Information

Suitable for Tea

Yes

Preparation Methods

Infusion, Cold maceration

Steeping Temperature

190°F (88°C)

Steeping Time

5-8 minutes

Recommended Vessel

Glass teapot (to show flowers)

Blends Well With

Lemon Balm, Mint, Honey, Lemon

190°F (88°C) 5-8 minutes

Safety & Cautions

Contraindications

Avoid internal use of the leaf in pregnancy and liver disease (pyrrolizidine alkaloids); prefer PA-free seed oil. Avoid long-term use. Avoid with borage/Compositae allergy.

Drug Interactions

Theoretical hepatotoxicity with other liver-affecting drugs; limited data.

Pregnancy

Avoid internal leaf use — pyrrolizidine alkaloids; seed oil only under guidance.

Breastfeeding

Avoid internal leaf use; seek guidance for seed oil.

Children

Avoid internal leaf use; avoid self-medication.

Allergies

Possible contact dermatitis from leaf hairs; rare food allergy.

Known Adverse Effects

Hepatotoxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids (amabiline) in the leaf make internal use hazardous long-term; possible contact dermatitis from the hairy leaves.

Research Summary

Evidence Level: Conflicting

Seed oil provides GLA (anti-inflammatory interest); the leaf's traditional use is discouraged internally due to pyrrolizidine alkaloids. Clinical evidence for mood and adrenal outcomes is limited.

Evidence levels reflect the currently available scientific literature and may change as new research emerges. Where evidence is limited or conflicting, this is stated plainly.

References & Sources

American Herbal Products Association · Botanical Safety Handbook (PA-containing herbs) (2013)
American Botanical Council · Expanded Commission E Monographs (2000)

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