Borage

Borage

Borage starflower Rohtopurasruoho 02

Borago officinalis white flower

Borago officinalis, two blossoms

Borage-aragonese style600

Borage (Borago officinalis), also known as starflower, is an annual herb in the flowering plant family Boraginaceae. It is native to the Mediterranean region but has been naturalized in many other locales. It grows satisfactorily in gardens in the UK climate, remaining in the garden from year to year by self-seeding. The plant is used in traditional medicine and is also cultivated for its seeds which contain gamma-linolenic acid, an important fatty acid.

Description

Borage is an annual plant that grows to a height of about 60–100 cm (24–39 in), and is bristly or hairy all over the stems and leaves. The leaves are alternate, simple, and 5–15 cm (2.0–5.9 in) long. The flowers are complete, perfect with five narrow, triangular-pointed petals. Flowers are most often blue, although pink flowers are sometimes observed. Borage flowers have a distinctive star shape, which has given the plant its common name of starflower. The plant blooms from June to September.

Culinary Uses

Borage is notable for its high omega-6 fatty acid content and is used in traditional Mediterranean cuisine. The leaves are edible and can be used fresh in salads or cooked similar to spinach. Borage flowers are also edible and are often used as a garnish or to add color to salads and summer drinks.

Medicinal Uses

Traditionally, borage has been used to treat a multitude of ailments and to improve adrenal function. Borage oil, extracted from the seeds of the plant, is rich in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), a type of omega-6 fatty acid that is said to have anti-inflammatory and other beneficial properties. It has been used in the treatment of conditions such as arthritis, atopic dermatitis, and premenstrual syndrome. However, scientific evidence supporting these uses is limited, and more research is needed to confirm the efficacy of borage oil in treating these conditions.

Cultivation

Borage prefers a sunny position and well-drained soil. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate poor soil conditions and is known for its ability to attract bees and other pollinators to the garden. Borage is often grown in vegetable gardens where it is believed to improve the growth and flavor of nearby plants through companion planting.

Precautions

While borage is generally considered safe for culinary use, there are some precautions to be aware of. The plant contains small amounts of pyrrolizidine alkaloids, compounds that can be toxic to the liver in large quantities. Pregnant and breastfeeding women are advised to avoid consuming borage products.

In Culture

Borage has a long history of use in herbal medicine and has been associated with courage and bravery. According to folklore, borage was consumed by Roman soldiers before they went into battle to give them strength.