Traditional European Herbalism
Borage 'Courage' Cooling Cup
A historical 'cordial' of borage flower and leaf with lemon balm, made lightly and briefly to echo the old courage-and-comfort cups — flowers floated on top.
Safety review in progress
Contains borage leaf, a pyrrolizidine alkaloid source with liver and pregnancy concerns. Preparation and quantities withheld pending safety review. Preparation and serving guidance is withheld pending safety review.
Historical Background
'I, borage, give courage' — medieval Europeans stirred borage into summer cordials to lift the spirits. Modern guidance avoids long internal use of the leaf (pyrrolizidine alkaloids); this very mild, brief infusion favors the edible flowers.
Traditional purpose: Mood and gentle relaxation (traditional)
Editorial Note
This recipe is retained for its historical and cultural interest. Preparation and serving guidance is not published while this formulation is under editorial safety review. No preparation instructions are implied.
Storage
Use fresh.
Safety Notices
Avoid internal use of borage leaf in pregnancy, breastfeeding, or liver disease; the leaf contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids — use rarely and briefly. Prefer the edible flowers or PA-free seed oil. Educational use only.
References & Sources
- American Herbal Products Association · Botanical Safety Handbook (PA-containing herbs) (2013)