Borage oil can treat eczema, improve the growth of premature babies, and cure respiratory infections. Find out what other ways it can benefit your health, as well as its side effects.
The Borago officinalis plant is between 60 and 100 centimeters tall, and belongs to the Boraginaceae family. Despite being native to Lebanon, Syria and Egypt, borage is cultivated, used and consumed throughout the Mediterranean region, be it its stems and leaves, as well as its oil and infusion.
The oil, which is made from the seeds of the plant of the same name, would provide different benefits and its uses date back to ancient times. Today, popular medicine often uses it to treat inflammation, acne, eczema, and even breast pain and menopause. Find out everything you need to know about this extract.
What is borage oil used for?
Borage oil is commonly used to combat skin disorders.
Borage oil has various uses in traditional medicine. It is commonly used to combat skin disorders such as acne, eczema, and rosacea; This is because it is rich in niacin or vitamin B3, known to help maintain healthy skin, as well as for its emollient and toning action.
Similarly, it is a source of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), linked to positive effects on blood pressure, high cholesterol, and the regulation of hormones such as estrogens.
Additionally, there is anecdotal evidence that it could be used to treat other conditions such as arthritis, adrenal fatigue, diabetes, epilepsy, and scleroderma, among others.
Composition and possible benefits
Borage oil is a source of active compounds that attribute important health benefits to it. Here are some compounds and possible benefits that this oil can offer.
1. Contains linolenic acid
Linoleic acid, also called gamma-linolenic acid or GLA, is an essential fatty acid of the omega 6 series that the body transforms into prostaglandin E1 (PGE1). This molecule works like a hormone and reduces inflammation associated with skin conditions as well as cardiovascular problems.
Borage oil has caught the attention of many for its GLA content, as it is believed to have higher levels than any other oil made from seeds. However, more research is still required in this regard.
2. It would have anti-inflammatory properties
According to research published in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, taking 1.8 grams of borage oil or 2.1 grams of fish oil a day can reduce the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.
The study also showed that these oils could replace non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in some people, as well as avoid the side effects associated with their intake.
3. Could treat eczema
A review of studies in which borage oil was used topically concluded that it has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that could be beneficial in treating eczema or atopic dermatitis.
However, another review of studies in which it was used orally noted that Borago officinalis oil did not show any effect in people with eczema, so the topical version is believed to be more effective in treating skin disorders. than oral.
4. Could improve growth in premature babies
According to a study published in The Journal of Pediatrics, premature babies who took a formula supplemented with borage oil and fish oil showed greater growth and development than those who received a standard formula.
5. It would help alleviate respiratory infections
An investigation in 146 patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) found that those who received a tube feeding that included eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and linoleic acid (GLA) showed improvement and spent less time in intensive care than those who had a standard diet.
6. Has antioxidant properties
There is scientific evidence that Borago officinalis oil has antioxidant and antimutagenic activity that could inhibit the growth of cancer cells.
The laboratory study suggests that both borage oil and GLA act as cytotoxic substances, thereby shortening the life of harmful cells and prolonging the life of the host. However, more studies on these effects are still needed.
7. It would reduce fat accumulation and weight gain
According to a study published in Comparative Biochemistry and Physiology, the GLA present in borage oil causes less body fat to accumulate than with other vegetable oils.
Similarly, the buildup caused by GLA is mostly brown and not white fat. This is important, since thin people tend to have more brown fat than those who are obese or overweight.
Borage oil should be consumed and applied under medical supervision.
Contraindications and side effects
The side effects of borage oil depend on the presentation in which it is consumed or used. Supplements, for example, could cause headaches, bloating, indigestion, nausea, and vomiting.
For its part, when used topically, there is a risk of suffering an allergic reaction or any of its symptoms, such as hives, rash, inflammation, difficulty breathing, sudden fatigue, among others. In this case, you should call your doctor immediately.
There are some side effects that could be less common and therefore more serious. Since some borage oil formulas can affect the liver, it is not recommended for patients with liver disease or taking medications related to liver health. You should always check with your doctor before ingesting it.
Likewise, it has been documented that excessive intake could have harmful effects on health. There is scientific evidence that a woman experienced sudden seizures of epilepsy after ingesting 1,500 to 3,000 milligrams of borage oil daily for one week.
Although this case alone does not mean that oral borage oil causes epilepsy, there is a possibility that it does, which is why you should be careful with its consumption and application.
Dosage and recommendations for use of borage oil
There is no specific dose for taking or applying borage oil. However, a study published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition suggested that lactating women can take between 230 and 460 milligrams.
For its part, research published in the Archives of Gerontology and Geriatrics found that between 360 and 720 milligrams can be effective in treating skin conditions in adults over 65.
However, when buying oral supplements try to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and, of course, consume them under medical supervision. In case of using it for the skin, keep in mind that you must dilute it in a carrier oil; mix up to 12 drops per ounce of base oil, which could be jojoba or olive oil.
Regarding application, consider applying a thin layer to the affected area twice a day. Another option is to cover the inside of a shirt with oil and stick it to the skin; This is especially useful for areas like the back.
Borage oil, an extract with varied benefits and uses
Borage or Borago officinalis is a plant from the borage family native to the Mediterranean region. Its oil provides benefits such as treating eczema, alleviating the symptoms of respiratory infections and even reducing the accumulation of fat.
However, you must be careful not to ingest excessive amounts and avoid their consumption if you are a patient with liver disease, or are taking medications that affect this organ. Before consuming or using it, medical consultation is recommended.
