Borage herb (Borago officinalis; English: Starflower Oil, Borago Oil); also known as joy herb, ox tongue, cucumber herb, and zilbit. It is known as the joy herb. It is said that in the past, it was found in the bags of those going to the military. It is the herb that mothers put in their children's provision bags so they wouldn't get depressed in the military. Its common name among people is joy herb. It is used for hormonal disorders, adolescent troubles, illnesses, and during menopause. During this period, it is used for hair and skin health.
Benefits
Borage oil is nature's richest source of GLA (gamma linoleic acid). GLA is vital for the formation of prostaglandins. Prostaglandins act as regulators in maintaining premenstrual health and in many other health areas. It also helps with healthy blood pressure and cardiovascular health. It gives effective results for skin blemishes, helps prevent acne formation. It plumps and cares for the skin.
Which Parts of the Plant Are Used?
The leaves and seeds of the borage plant are used.
In Which Natural Food Sources Is It Found?
GLA is found in breast milk, oats, barley, and seed oils. It is also found in black grape seeds and Evening primrose oil.
How Do You Know If You Have a Borage Deficiency?
In a healthy body, the body can convert omega-6 fats into GLA, but in some cases, especially when hormonal balance is disrupted, GLA should be supplemented. In women, premenstrual period, in diabetics, and eczema problems can affect the body's capacity to produce GLA. Borage oil may be beneficial for people who cannot convert linoleic acid into GLA. These people are those with zinc deficiency, excessive alcohol consumption, cardiovascular problems, high cholesterol, viral infections, and problems like cancer.
Warning: GLA is also recommended for MS patients, but the official website of the disease states that omega-6 fats should not be used.
Safety and Interactions
There is no known side effect. Those using blood thinners such as Aspirin and Warfarin should avoid using borage oil. Its use during pregnancy is not recommended, it should not be given to schizophrenia patients and those using epileptic drugs like phenothiazine.
Use for Skin
In skin care recommendations, I had written that using oil for oily skin is beneficial. Borage oil is beneficial for preventing acne formation for oily skins and for skin problems because it contains zinc. 7-8 drops should be thoroughly massaged into clean and dry skin every night before bed.
For Aged and Sunken Skin
If your skin is dry, do not use it at night, apply it to clean skin every evening, massage from bottom to top to allow it to penetrate the skin and apply like a mask for 1-2 hours. Cleanse the skin with rose water.
I will give recipes for meals and salads with borage herb. Eating it as food is more beneficial. Oils can cause hair growth on the skin. Those selling these oils praise the plant a lot for advertising.
