Borage Medicinal Uses

Borage, also known as starflower, bee bush, bee bread, and bugloss,  with edible leaves and flowers, has many medicinal uses. Borage has been used in European herbal medicine since the Middle Ages. It is an annual herb with beautiful flowers and the plant reseeds readily. The stem and leaves are covered with coarse, prickly hairs. The fresh plant has a salty flavor and a cucumber-like odor.

There are 2 varieties of Borage, namely Borago officinalis with blue flowers and Borago officinalis ‘Alba’ with white flowers. In both varieties the leaves and flowers are edible and they both share the same medicinal benefits.

Borage Medicinal Uses Overview
Borage is a cooling, cleansing herb with adaptogenic, demulcent, diuretic, expectorant, and anti-inflammatory properties. European herbalists use borage tea to restore strength during convalescence. It is of particular benefit during recovery from surgery or following steroid treatment.

Among its benefits, it may help in the treatment of:

• Acute respiratory distress syndrome.
• Adrenal insufficiency.
• Asthma, bronchitis and colds.
• Attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder.
• Depression and Stress.
• Diabetes.
• Eczema, seborrheic dermatitis and neurodermatitis.
• Fever.
• Gastritis and irritable bowel syndrome.
• Insect bites, boils and rashes.
• Premenstrual Syndrome.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis.

CAUTION: Do not take this herb if you suffer from liver disease, bleeding disorders or epilepsy.

Borage Herbal Preparations and Uses

Parts Used:  Leaves, flowers and stems.

• Infusions / Tea.
• Poultice.
• Infused Oil.
• Salves / Ointments.

Borage Herbal Recipes

Borage Tea

• Add ¼ cup fresh borage leaves or flowers to one cup of hot, boiling water.
• Steep for 10-15 minutes.
• You can add honey to sweeten the tea.