Borage oil is a medicinal plant that has spread to many regions of the planet. Not only does it stand out for its brightly coloured flowers and pleasant aroma, but by subjecting its seeds to cold pressure, borage oil is obtain, a natural cosmetic with extraordinary rejuvenating properties.
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What Is Borage Oil, And What Is It Used For?
In the fields of Europe, South America, the Middle East and part of Africa, borage can be seen in all its splendour. Yet, looking at it, you cannot even imagine that this visually pleasing plant has so many applications in health and beauty. Would you like to know more about it?
How Is Borage Oil Obtain?
When it comes to vegetable oil, the best extraction method is by cold pressure, as this way, the quality of its components is more fully preserve, and its conservation is guarantee for a long time.
The oil extracted by cold pressing is generally obtain using traditional methods. In the first place, the seed’s shell is remove, it is clean employing ventilation and shaking, and then it is taken to the press, making sure that the temperature that generates the pressure is not higher than 45° C.
Finally, the oil is store in steel tanks and subjected to cotton filters to be package in dark glass bottles, where light does not penetrate, to prevent oxidation of the oil; And that’s it, you have a quality product that can put to a thousand uses.
Borage oil is rich in fat, vitamin E, linolenic acid (omega 6), oleic acid (omega 9), and saturated fatty acids.
Nutritional Profile of Borage Oil
| Component | Approximate Content | Health Role |
| Gamma-Linolenic Acid (GLA) | 20–25% | Reduces inflammation, supports skin & hormones |
| Linoleic Acid (Omega-6) | 35–40% | Maintains skin barrier and cell function |
| Oleic Acid (Omega-9) | 15–20% | Supports heart health |
| Vitamin E | Natural antioxidant | Protects skin cells from oxidative stress |
| Saturated Fats | Small amounts | Structural lipid support |
Health Benefits of Borage Oil
For centuries, nature has given us borage oil, for which it has received many uses, recognizing its properties in the treatment of various diseases and enhancing physical beauty.
Next, we will indicate the maximum of 4 benefits of Borage Oil for Health.
Scientifically Proven Uses of Borage Oil
- Clinical studies show gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) helps reduce symptoms of eczema and atopic dermatitis
- Research published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition suggests GLA supports joint mobility in rheumatoid arthritis
- Studies indicate borage oil may help regulate hormonal imbalance linked to PMS and menopause
- Evidence shows antioxidant activity helps protect cells from oxidative stress
Borage Oil Benefits Skin Health
Antonio Haro, a research professor in the department of plant genetic improvement of the Institute of Sustainable Agriculture, speaking of borage, states: “It has a fatty acid called gamma-linolenic essential for humans.”
This oil hydrates, nourishes and repairs the skin, regulates skin fat, minimizes collagen loss and delays cell ageing.
On the other hand, it effectively treats skin problems, such as atopic dermatitis or eczema.
For a good reason, it is often use to complement scrubs and facial masks. By the way, dietary supplements such as the Rilastil oral sun system help protect the skin from solar radiation.
So, borage oil has become natural cosmetic par excellence due to its content of fatty acids such as omega 3 and omega 6 that give it antioxidant and rejuvenating properties.
Borage Oil for Skin – Evidence-Based Benefits
| Skin Concern | How Borage Oil Helps |
| Dry skin | Restores lipid barrier and hydration |
| Eczema & dermatitis | Reduces inflammation and itching |
| Premature aging | Slows collagen breakdown |
| Acne-prone skin | Regulates sebum production |
| Redness & irritation | Calms inflamed skin tissues |
It Is A Potent Anti-Inflammatory
Having the power to inhibit the synthesis of inflammatory substances, borage oil, with a high content of gamma-linolenic acid. Is very effective in improving patients’ quality of life who have rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer’s disease and periodontitis.
On the other hand, thinking about the pain women suffer, this oil also helps mitigate the discomfort caused by endometriosis. And premenstrual and menopausal symptoms, because it regulates the production of estrogens progesterone and prolactin.
An Incentive For The Nervous System
Everyday life becomes a marathon that exhausts our body and mind in this modern world. By optimizing blood circulation and stimulating brain functions, allowing better neuronal interconnections, borage oil becomes a balm for tense days.
For this reason, it is convenient for busy executives or dedicate students who are subject to mentally exhausting situations daily.
Relieves Respiratory Problems
Considering its emollient characteristics, borage oil is efficient for treating throat irritation caused by excessive coughing. For this same reason, it effectively reduces the symptoms caused by some respiratory diseases, such as colds, bronchitis and pharyngitis.
In addition, it is a relief for those who suffer episodes of difficulty breathing caused by the poor performance of the lungs, whose alveoli or capillaries do not work well. It has been shown that it improves the state of the mucous membranes. And contributes to expectoration, thus benefiting the respiratory system.
Provides Benefits For The Cardiovascular System
Due to its composition of vitamins A and C, minerals such as magnesium, calcium, potassium, iron. Nitrates that favour diuretic, sudorific and cardiac activity are present as an excellent alternative to prevent myocardial infarctions hypertension cerebrovascular accidents of the type ischemic.
Also, consider that its gamma-linolenic acid component has vasodilator functions, prevents the formation of blood clots, and reduces bad cholesterol.
Borage Oil vs Other Medicinal Oils
| Oil Type | GLA Content | Best For |
| Borage Oil | Very High (20–25%) | Skin, joints, hormones |
| Evening Primrose Oil | Moderate (8–10%) | PMS, mild skin issues |
| Fish Oil | None | Heart & brain health |
| Flaxseed Oil | Low | Digestion, omega-3 intake |
Who Should Use Borage Oil?
- People with chronic inflammatory skin conditions
- Women experiencing PMS, menopause, or hormonal imbalance
- Individuals with joint pain or mild arthritis
- Those exposed to oxidative stress (pollution, sun damage)
- People seeking natural anti-aging solutions
How To Take Borage Oil?
In countries like France or Italy, borage is consider a food (vegetable) use in gastronomy. Its flowers are also require as an ingredient in exquisite sauces.
- However, despite providing nutrition, its benefits for the body are consumed in these ways.
- The oil from the seeds, loaded with proteins, fibres, fats, vitamins and carbohydrates, brings more significant advantages than the consumption of the plant itself.
- In pharmacies, you can get it in capsules or oil because it can be consume orally or applied directly to the skin.
- As for the capsules, these generally contain 500 mg of borage oil. And the recommended daily dose is one to three days.
- Its intake provides anti-inflammatory and antioxidant values. That is why presentations such as Rilastil triple oral sun system three months are highly demand.
- Pure borage oil is usually applied to the skin to moisturize it and relieve inflammation and redness.
Borage Oil Side Effects & Drug Interactions
- May cause mild digestive upset in high doses
- Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Should be avoided with blood-thinning medications
- Always choose PA-free (pyrrolizidine alkaloid-free) borage oil supplements
Conclusion
As in fact happens with any extract of medicinal plants, you should consult your doctor before consuming it because it can cause effects such as indigestion, headaches or nausea. In addition, Borage oil should not be ingest during pregnancy or when it is suspect because it promotes menstruation.