BORAGE OIL
Borage oil is a nutritional supplement rich in essential fatty acids that can regulate the body’s immune system and fight joint inflammation.
Borage oil is used for skin disorders including eczema, red, itchy rash on the scalp, and is also used in a dressing to soften the skin.
Borage oil is one of the richest sources of essential fatty acids, particularly gamma-linolenic acid, which helps nourish and hydrate the skin.
CAS Number: 9005-26-7
EC Number: 232-287-5
Molecular Formula: C18H30O2
Molar Mass: 278.43 g/mol
Synonyms: Borage Seed Oil, Starflower Oil, Borago Officinalis Oil, Borago Oil, Starflower Seed Oil, Borage Oil Extract, Borage Extract, Borago Officinalis Extract, Borage Essential Oil, Borage Oil Concentrate, Borage Infusion, Borage Lipid Extract, Starflower Lipid, Borage Oil Solution, Borage Oil Essence, Borago Oil Essence, Borage Oil Tincture, Borago Officinalis Seed Oil, Starflower Oil Extract, Borage Seed Extract
Borage oil is a natural substance that provides high levels GLA, which is a type of polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA).
Borage oil’s derived from the seeds of the borage plant, which has the species name Borago officinalis and is indigenous to North Africa and Europe.
Borage oil is not found in high amounts in the human diet.
Therefore, most people turn to supplements to provide Borage oil's benefits, including both Borage oil and evening primrose oil.
Borage oil is a nutritional supplement which is rich in essential fatty acids that can regulate the body’s immune system and fight joint inflammation.
The available evidence suggests that borage seed oil may improve the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.
Borage oil contains very high levels of two types of polyunsaturated omega-6 essential fatty acids, 20–26% gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) and linolenic acid (LA, which your body converts to GLA).
GLA is an essential fatty acid that’s important for maintaining a joint’s cell structure and function.
Your body converts Borage oil into hormone-like substances called prostaglandins, which regulate your immune system and fight joint inflammation.
Borage oil might also suppress inflammatory responses by directly acting on some inflammatory cells.
Other oils generally used in normal diet (like sunflower oil) only contain LA.
Borage oil is the richest source of pure GLA.
Borage oil also contains tannic, oleic and palmetic acid.
Borage oil is used for skin disorders including eczema (atopic dermatitis), red, itchy rash on the scalp (seborrheic dermatitis), and a type of skin condition called neurodermatitis.
Borage oil is also used for rheumatoid arthritis (RA), swelling of the gums, stress, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), diabetes, attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), alcoholism, pain and swelling (inflammation), asthma, and for preventing heart disease and stroke.
Borage oil is sometimes added to infant formula in small amounts to provide fatty acids needed to promote development of preterm infants.
Borage flower and leaves are used for fever, cough, and depression.
Borage oil is also used for a hormone problem called adrenal insufficiency, for "blood purification," to increase urine flow, to prevent inflammation of the lungs, as a sedative, and to promote sweating.
Borage oil is also used to increase breast milk production and to treat bronchitis and colds.
Borage oil is applied to the skin for red, itchy rash on the scalp of infants (seborrheic dermatitis) and is also used in a dressing to soften the skin.
In foods, borage is eaten in salads and soups.
In manufacturing, borage is used in skin care products.
Borage oil contains the omega-6 fatty acid known as gamma-linolenic acid.
Borage oil is also produced naturally in the body and thought to have anti-inflammatory activity.
Borage oil also contains mucilage, a sticky mixture of plant sugars that can act as an expectorant to produce phlegm in patients with coughs.
Borage oil has been promoted for rheumatoid arthritis, skin inflammation, diabetic nerve pain, menopausal symptoms, and gastrointestinal issues, but research shows only moderate support for its use to relieve rheumatoid arthritis symptoms.
Borage oil, derived from the seeds of the plant, is a rich source of gamma-linolenic acid and linoleic acid (LA).
In herbal and traditional medicine, Borage oil has been used to induce sweating, as an expectorant and anti-inflammatory, to promote lactation, to stimulate adrenal function, and as an alternative source to evening primrose oil for obtaining GLA.
Borage oil has also been promoted to treat rheumatoid arthritis, atopic dermatitis, diabetic neuropathy, menopause-related symptoms, and gastrointestinal disease.
Anti-inflammatory properties of Borage oil have been attributed to its high GLA content.
Borage oil also contains other fatty acids including linoleic, oleic, palmitic, stearic, eicosenoic, and erucic acids.
GLA can be converted to the prostaglandin precursor dihomo-gama-linolenic acid.
DGLA can block transformation of arachidonic acid to leukotrienes and other prostaglandins.
GLA can increase cAMP levels which suppress synthesis of TNF-alpha, an inflammatory mediator linked to rheumatoid arthritis.
The mucilage constituent has an expectorant-like action and malic acid has a mild diuretic effect.
The tannin constituent may have mild astringent and constipating actions.
Borage oil is an extract made from the seeds of the Borago officinalis plant.
Borage oil is prized for its high gamma linolenic acid content.
Borage oil’s thought that this fatty acid can help reduce inflammation tied to many diseases.
Borage oil is one of the richest sources of essential fatty acids.
One of those fatty acids is gamma-linolenic acid, which helps nourish and hydrate the skin.
Borage oil works well especially for those with sensitive or mature skin.
Borage, also known as starflower or bee flower, is a plant harvested mostly for its seeds.
Borage oil’s an annual plant with coarse, hairy leaves.
Borage oil grows 2 to 3 feet tall and has blue, star-shaped flowers.
The leaves and stems are a grey-green color.
In traditional medicine, borage is used as a sedative and a diuretic, and as a treatment for seizures and kidney disease.
The leaves are often used as dried herbs or tea.
Today, fresh borage is eaten and used as a garnish or in drinks.
The seeds are also pressed to make borage seed oil, which is used as a supplement.
Borage oil is often used with evening primrose oil, but borage has more gamma-linoleic acid, or omega-6 fatty acid.
As a common herbal treatment in traditional medicine practices for hundreds of years, Borage oil has numerous uses — ranging from treating skin flare-ups to lowering pain.
The most beneficial aspect of using Borage oil, either topically on the skin or internally in capsule form, is that Borage oil has strong anti-inflammatory effects.
Borage oil is becoming increasingly popular as a natural anti-inflammatory supplement because it has one of the highest amounts of gamma-linolenic acid of all seed oils.
GLA is one type of omega-6 fatty acid that the body cannot make on its own, so we must get it from outside sources.
While to some degree we’re all able to convert other forms of omega-6 fatty acids (like the type found in nuts or seeds called conjugated linoleic acid) into GLA, Borage oil’s preferable and more effective to consume it directly, including from dietary supplements.
Borage oil is a natural substance that provides high levels GLA, which is a type of polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA).
Borage oil’s derived from the seeds of the borage plant, which has the species name Borago officinalis and is indigenous to North Africa and Europe.
Borage oil is not found in high amounts in the human diet.
Therefore, most people turn to supplements to provide its benefits, including both Borage oil and evening primrose oil.
Studies show that Borage oil is made up of roughly 23 percent GLA, making it one of the richest sources. (As a comparison, evening primrose oil has about 9 percent)
This means that Borage oil can be effective even when fewer capsules are taken daily, which also poses a lower risk for side effects.
Dietary supplements containing Borage oil are thought to be helpful for treating inflammatory disorders because they help correct defective conversions of fats to metabolites, such prostaglandin E1.
When the body isn’t able to complete an important metabolic step that keeps certain enzymes at appropriate levels, it’s easier for inflammation, which is the root of most diseases, to dangerously increase over time.
Borage oil is also thought to have circulation-boosting effects and a positive effect on metabolic processes.
Omega-3 and omega-6 PUFAs play an important role in fighting disease because together they help control the release of molecules that are responsible for the body’s inflammation responses (some being prostaglandins, leukotrienes and cytokines called interleukins).
Due to Borage oil's antioxidant properties and ability to fight inflammation, Borage oil benefits include the ability to help treat a wide range of both short- and long-term illnesses, including:
PMS symptoms (including breast pain or tenderness, anxiety, and skin breakouts)
Bone loss and osteoporosis (especially when combined with bone-building supplements like omega-3 fish oils)
ADHD symptoms
Skin disorders, including eczema or atopic dermatitis
Menopause symptoms, including hot flashes and night sweats
Hormonal imbalances, including adrenal insufficiency
Ongoing fatigue or chronic fatigue syndrome
Rheumatoid arthritis pain
Dealing with stress
Managing diabetes
Promoting breast-milk production
Respiratory distress (ARDS), bronchitis, colds, coughs and fevers
Alcoholism
Pain and swelling
Preventing heart disease and stroke
Several factors can interfere with your body’s production of Borage oil from LA, including:
Ageing
Dietary deficiencies
Viral infections
Some diseases
Borage oil benefits and uses:
Borage oil is thought to hold promise for the following uses:
Inflammation
Acne
Breast pain
Cardiovascular disease
Eczema
Menopause
Rosacea
Arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis (RA)
Uses of Borage Oil:
Borage oil is often used along with evening primrose or fish oil supplements to help manage inflammation and for their pain-reducing effects.
You might see these supplements sold together, such as in joint-supporting or anti-aging supplements.
Results can take several weeks up to several months to fully kick in, with some people needing up to six months for Borage oil’s full pain-reducing benefits to become very noticeable.
In addition to being taken by mouth, Borage oil is used on the skin to improve the skin’s barrier.
Borage oil is also sometimes added to fortified infant formulas in order supply essential fats that assist in growth.
Cosmetic and Skincare Uses:
Moisturizer:
Borage oil is used in lotions, creams, and serums to hydrate and soften the skin.
Helps maintain skin moisture and improve barrier function.
Anti-Inflammatory Treatment:
Incorporated into products for inflammatory skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and acne.
Reduces redness, irritation, and inflammation due to its high gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) content.
Skin Repair and Regeneration:
Added to products designed for skin repair and healing, such as after-sun care and wound healing treatments.
Supports skin regeneration and repair, improving overall skin texture and appearance.
Anti-Aging:
Included in anti-aging formulations to help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Provides essential fatty acids that support skin elasticity and firmness.
Hydrating and Soothing:
Borage oil is used in facial oils and masks for dry or sensitive skin.
Soothes and hydrates, leaving the skin feeling smooth and refreshed.
Anti-Cellulite:
Found in body lotions and creams targeting cellulite.
Borage oil may improve skin texture and elasticity, helping to reduce the appearance of cellulite.
Health and Wellness Uses:
Dietary Supplement:
Available in capsule or liquid form for oral consumption.
Provides essential fatty acids, particularly GLA, which may support cardiovascular health, hormonal balance, and overall wellness.
Joint and Muscle Health:
Borage oil is used in supplements or topical products for joint and muscle relief.
Borage oil may help reduce inflammation and support joint health.
Hormonal Balance:
Included in supplements aimed at supporting hormonal balance.
Borage oil may help manage symptoms associated with hormonal imbalances, such as menstrual discomfort.
Immune Support:
Incorporated into health supplements to bolster immune function.
Supports immune health through Borage oil's anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Hair Care Uses:
Hair Moisturizer:
Added to shampoos, conditioners, and hair masks.
Helps hydrate the scalp and improve hair texture, reducing dryness and brittleness.
Scalp Health:
Borage oil is used in scalp treatments or oils.
Borage oil may help soothe scalp irritation and support overall scalp health.
Benefits of Borage Oil:
Supplies Anti-Inflammatory Properties:
On top of supporting a healthy immune response, Borage oil can have positive effects on cell death (apoptosis) of toxic cells.
Once it enters the body, Borage oil is converted to a substance called dihomo-γ-linolenic acid (DGLA).
This acts as a precursor to prostaglandins and leukotriene compounds that the immune system produces.
DGLA is believed to lower inflammation because it inhibits leukotriene synthesis, which is partly responsible for raising autoimmune reactions and thrombotic effects.
People taking omega-3 fatty acids along with Borage oil treatments seem to have even better results.
Has Antioxidant Properties that Help Fight Cancer:
Borage oil is known to have anti-mutagenic properties and antioxidant capabilities that help fight the growth of cancerous cells.
In laboratory studies, Borage oil has exhibited cytotoxic activities that significantly shorten the life span of toxic cells while prolonging the life span of the healthy host.
Borage oil supplementation is also recommended for protecting DNA and because of its ability to lower underlying oxidative genetic damage that contributes to disease development.
Can Lower Arthritis Symptoms:
Borage oil seems to work like a natural remedy for rheumatoid arthritis pain, especially when used in combination with other conventional painkilling medications.
There’s evidence that some people notice a decrease in joint pain, swelling and severity of tenderness following as little as six weeks of regular Borage oil treatment.
Fights Eczema and Skin Disorders:
One of the most well-researched uses for Borage oil is treating skin disorders like eczema and atopic dermatitis.
Borage oil has been shown to help correct deficiencies in skin lipids (oils) that are caused by low levels of delta-6-desaturase activity.
Borage oil can also restore a normal acidic skin pH and increased epidermal levels of enzymes that protect the skin.
When the skin can’t produce enough protective oils, the result is dysregulation of the immune system, increased inflammation and specific immune responses that result in skin flare-ups, including those typical of eczema and atopic dermatitis.
Because human skin can’t synthesize GLA from the precursors linoleic acid or arachidonic acid on its own, supplementing with Borage oil helps act like a natural eczema remedy for people who are already too low in essential fatty acids critical to skin health.
While people with atopic dermatitis have most commonly used evening primrose for its beneficial fats, borage contains two to three times more GLA than evening primrose and therefore may be a better option.
While study results have been mixed, and not every study has shown that Borage oil can improve eczema or atopic dermatitis in the majority of patients, certain people seem to respond more positively to treatment than others.
Some studies have found that people taking up to 720 milligrams daily of GLA for two months experienced significant improvements in health of the cutaneous skin barrier.
Helps Treat Respiratory Infections:
Borage oil has been found to help improve the function of the lungs, including in people with inflamed respiratory infections and disorders such as acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).
Borage oil supplements taken in capsule form can help speed up healing time associated with coughs, the common cold or flu; reduce the length of time spent in the hospital or taking medications; and stop respiratory symptoms from worsening.
Aids Growth and Development:
There’s evidence that infants and premature babies receiving Borage oil have better rates of growth and development.
Supplementing with omega-6s from Borage oil (and beneficial omega-3 supplements) helps support development of the central nervous system and reduces risks associated with premature births.
Might Help Lower Fat Accumulation and Weight Gain:
There’s evidence that Borage oil may contribute to less body fat accumulation compared to more refined fats.
Specifically, GLA results in more brown fat accumulation but less white fat.
This seems to be tied to an increase in gene expressions that control brown adipose tissue growth compared to white adipose tissue growth.
This is beneficial because scientists now believe that lean people tend to have more brown fat than overweight or obese people, and brown fat might act more like muscle than like white fat does.
Handling and Storage of Borage Oil:
Handling:
Precautions:
Avoid direct contact with skin and eyes. Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves and safety goggles.
Ensure adequate ventilation when handling large quantities to avoid inhalation of any fumes or vapors.
Follow good hygiene practices, such as washing hands after handling the oil.
Handling Practices:
Use clean, dry tools and containers when dispensing or transferring the oil.
Avoid contamination by keeping the oil covered and using clean utensils.
Storage:
Conditions:
Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
Ideal storage temperature is between 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F).
Keep containers tightly sealed to prevent oxidation and contamination.
Container:
Use airtight, light-resistant containers to protect the oil from light and air, which can lead to degradation.
Stability and Reactivity of Borage Oil:
Stability:
Borage oil is generally stable under recommended storage conditions.
Ensure that the oil is protected from excessive heat, light, and air to maintain its quality.
Reactivity:
Conditions to Avoid:
Extreme temperatures, direct sunlight, and exposure to air.
Materials to Avoid:
Strong oxidizing agents and acids that may react with the oil.
Hazardous Decomposition Products:
Thermal decomposition may produce harmful fumes.
First Aid Measures of Borage Oil:
Inhalation:
Move the affected person to fresh air immediately.
If symptoms persist or if there is difficulty breathing, seek medical attention.
Skin Contact:
Wash the affected area with soap and water.
Remove contaminated clothing.
If irritation develops or persists, seek medical advice.
Eye Contact:
Rinse eyes immediately with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes, holding the eyelids open.
Seek medical attention if irritation persists or vision is affected.
Ingestion:
Rinse the mouth with water and do not induce vomiting unless directed by a medical professional.
Seek medical attention immediately, especially if large quantities were ingested.
Fire Fighting Measures of Borage Oil:
Suitable Extinguishing Media:
Use foam, dry chemical powder, carbon dioxide (CO₂), or water fog.
Special Fire Fighting Procedures:
Wear self-contained breathing apparatus and protective clothing.
Cool containers with water spray to prevent bursting in case of fire.
Unusual Fire and Explosion Hazards:
Combustible, may produce smoke or fumes when burning.
Ensure good ventilation in fire scenarios.
Accidental Release Measures of Borage Oil:
Personal Precautions:
Wear appropriate PPE, including gloves and safety goggles.
Avoid inhalation and contact with the skin.
Environmental Precautions:
Prevent the oil from entering drains, water sources, or soil. Contain spills to avoid environmental contamination.
Cleanup Methods:
Absorb the oil with inert materials like sand or vermiculite.
Collect the absorbed material and place it in suitable, labeled containers for disposal.
Clean the affected area with soap and water, and ensure proper ventilation.
Exposure Controls/Personal Protective Equipment of Borage Oil:
Occupational Exposure Limits:
No specific occupational exposure limits established for Borage oil, but general good hygiene practices should be followed.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
Respiratory Protection:
Not typically required under normal conditions; use if there is a risk of inhaling fumes or vapors.
Hand Protection:
Use gloves made of materials like nitrile or polyethylene to prevent skin contact.
Eye Protection:
Safety goggles or face shields if there is a risk of splashing.
Skin Protection:
Wear protective clothing if prolonged or repeated contact is anticipated.
Engineering Controls:
Ensure adequate ventilation in areas where Borage oil is handled or used.
Use local exhaust ventilation if necessary to avoid the buildup of vapors or fumes.
Identifiers of Borage Oil:
Chemical Name: Borage oil
INCI Name: Borago Officinalis Seed Oil
Common Names: Borage Seed Oil, Starflower Oil
CAS Number: 9005-26-7 (for Borage oil)
EINECS Number: 232-287-5
Molecular Formula: Variable, as it is an oil mixture; primary components include GLA (C18H30O2), linoleic acid (C18H32O2), and oleic acid (C18H34O2)
Appearance: Typically a yellow to amber, clear to slightly cloudy liquid
Odor: Mild, characteristic of vegetable oils
Source: Extracted from the seeds of the Borago officinalis plant
Uses: Commonly used in skincare products for its anti-inflammatory, moisturizing, and skin-repairing properties; also used in dietary supplements for its omega-6 fatty acids.
Properties of Borage Oil:
Color: Yellow to amber
Clarity: Clear to slightly cloudy
Scent: Mild, characteristic of vegetable oils
Viscosity: Typically low viscosity, oily liquid
Specific Gravity:
Range: Approximately 0.91 to 0.93 at 25°C
Refractive Index:
Range: Approximately 1.46 to 1.48 at 20°C
Acid Value:
Range: Typically ≤ 2.0 mg KOH/g
Peroxide Value:
Range: Typically ≤ 5.0 meq O₂/kg
Iodine Value:
Range: Approximately 130 to 150 g I₂/100 g
Saponification Value:
Range: Approximately 180 to 200 mg KOH/g
Fatty Acid Composition:
Gamma-Linolenic Acid (GLA):
Content: Approximately 20-26%
Linoleic Acid:
Content: Approximately 30-40%
Oleic Acid:
Content: Approximately 20-25%
Palmitic Acid:
Content: Approximately 10-15%
Stearic Acid:
Content: Approximately 1-3%
Additional Properties:
Moisture Content:
Range: Typically ≤ 0.5%
Free Fatty Acids:
Range: Typically ≤ 1.0%
Ash Content:
Range: Typically ≤ 0.1%
Microbiological Properties:
Total Plate Count:
Range: Typically ≤ 1000 CFU/g
Yeast and Mold Count:
Range: Typically ≤ 100 CFU/g
Pathogens:
Tested For: Absence of harmful bacteria such as E. coli, Salmonella, and Staphylococcus aureus
