Borage, an excellent source of GLA (an omega-6 fatty acid), has inflammation-modulating and antioxidant effects.** It also optimizes cardiovascular and joint health in addition to:**
- Supporting healthy immune system performance.**
- Providing soothing comfort for PMS and menstruation.**
- Support smooth, clear and hydrated skin.**
What is Borage Oil?
Borage oil is extracted from the seeds of a Mediterranean plant known as the starflower that has long been cultivated for its wellness, culinary and decorative uses. Ancient Romans used the oil from starflower seeds to support a positive mood, while European herbalists have long used the oil to promote healthy skin, support clear respiration and regulate inflammatory responses. All of these traditional uses have been validated by modern science.**
When extracted from borage seed, between 18% and 26% of the oil is comprised of gamma-linoleic acid (GLA), an omega-6 fatty acid that is an essential part of a healthy diet. With this high ratio, borage oil is considered one of nature’s best plant sources of natural GLA.**
Studies suggest that the GLA found in borage oil provides a wide range of wellness benefits. The body converts GLA to a compound called dihomo-gamma-linoleic acid (DGLA). DGLA modulates inflammation and immune responses, supporting health across diverse body systems. GLA’s inflammation-modulating activity is highly regarded for soothing stiff, achy joints. In fact, research has shown that the GLA found in borage oil reduced joint tenderness by 45% and joint swelling by 41%. Yet another trial found that borage oil effectively relieved joint discomfort in 85% of study participants.**
Scientific investigations have shown that borage’s antioxidant activity and inflammation-balancing properties also appear to help the skin. Consumption of borage oil has been associated with improvements in skin hydration, via biological mechanisms that help reduce water loss and improve water retention in the dermis. Borage’s inflammation-modulating activity has also shown potential for helping with skin conditions that manifest as scaling, flaking, roughness and itchiness. In addition to oral supplementation, borage oil may be applied topically as an emollient that softens and moisturizes the skin.**
Additional research indicates that borage oil may assist with women's health. Specifically, borage is believed to supply soothing natural comfort for cramps, aches and other issues associated with PMS and menstruation. The oil also shows the potential to assist with ideal respiration, healthy metabolism, cardiovascular wellness, nervous system health, bone strength and ideal immune system performance.**
Borage Products
Borage supplement products are sourced from the seeds of the starflower plant. Supplements are available in liquid form or as capsules or softgels. The extract is sometimes offered in an essential fatty acid formula that includes fish and flax to feature omega-3s, omega-6s and omega-9s. Borage is also a common ingredient in skin creams.**
Borage Directions for Use
Consult a health care provider before adding this supplement to your regimen. No standardized dosage of borage oil has been established. Softgels and capsules generally contain from 300 mg to 1,300 mg of borage oil.**
