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.

Disclaimer

Medicinal Information:

All medicinal information on this website is for educational and informational purposes only and may not be construed as medical advice. The information is not intended to replace medical advice or treatment offered by healthcare professionals.

Seeds, Plants, Plant Cuttings, Geophytes and Dried Herbs:

In some countries and provinces, certain plants are deemed as invasive and are not allowed to be planted at all, whilst some plants are allowed to be grown only in certain areas or provinces. The onus is on you as the buyer to familiarize yourself with the regulations pertaining to your location, before purchasing any of our seeds, plants, plant cuttings, geophytes or dried herbs. We will not be held liable, should you purchase any seeds, plants, plant cuttings, geophytes or dried herbs. from us which are prohibited in your country or province.