Borage oil (borago officinalis)
Synopsis of borage oil
Borage oil is a nutrient-rich oil extracted from the seeds of the borage plant (Borago officinalis), a flowering herb native to the Mediterranean region. It is one of the richest natural sources of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an omega-6 essential fatty acid known for its anti-inflammatory, skin-nourishing, and hormone-balancing properties. While omega-6 fats are often associated with inflammation, GLA from borage oil actually supports pro-resolving anti-inflammatory pathways.
Each gram of borage oil typically contains 20–26% GLA, making it more potent than other GLA sources like evening primrose oil or black currant seed oil.
Borage oil is used to:
- Support skin health, especially in conditions like eczema, dermatitis, rosacea, and dry or aging skin
- Reduce joint inflammation and pain in rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory conditions
- Help regulate female hormones, easing symptoms of PMS and menopause
- Improve barrier function and hydration in the skin
- Support immune modulation and reduce allergic responses
- Promote hair and nail strength
It is available as softgel capsules, liquid oil, or in topical skin care products. Internal doses typically range from 500 mg to 2 g per day, often standardized to GLA content.
Historical Use:
Borage has a long history in traditional European herbal medicine, where it was known for “bringing courage and comfort to the heart.” The flowers and leaves were often used in teas and tonics for fever, stress, and adrenal exhaustion. Though the oil was not historically extracted in its current form, the seeds and aerial parts were valued for their calming, cooling, and anti-inflammatory effects.
In Greek and Roman herbalism, borage was used as a remedy for melancholy, lung complaints, and digestive issues. Medieval texts praised it for "cheering the spirits," which today may relate to its adrenal-supportive and anti-inflammatory actions.
Modern use of borage seed oil began in the 20th century, when scientists isolated its high GLA content and documented its effects on skin, joints, and hormonal balance. Unlike synthetic anti-inflammatories, GLA works more gently by modulating prostaglandin pathways, offering support in chronic inflammatory conditions without harsh side effects.
Today, borage oil is widely used in integrative dermatology, women’s health, and anti-inflammatory protocols, making it a valuable botanical oil for internal and external use in managing inflammation, dryness, and hormonal imbalance.
Borage oil is used for these health conditions
Arthritis (Scientific)
Eczema (Scientific)
Inflammation (Scientific)
PMS (general) (Scientific)
Rheumatoid Arthritis (Scientific)
Skin (dry and/or flaky) (Scientific)
Wounds and Sores (Traditional)
borage oil is used to support these body systems
Female Reproductive System (Traditional)
Joints (Scientific)
Skin (Scientific)
