Borage oil is increasingly popular amongst those looking for natural oils and supplements for the skin, hair, and overall wellness. It is made from the seeds of the borage plant and includes a fatty acid known as gamma-linolenic acid, or GLA. GLA is an omega-6 fatty acid that has been investigated for its potential role in inflammation and skin health. There are plenty of claims online about the benefits of borage oil, from improved skin and stronger hair to less inflammation and greater general health. But not all claims are supported by good science. Some benefits are currently under investigation, and some others have mixed outcomes. So before you include borage oil in your routine, it is preferable to know what it may truly do, how to use it, and what safety points you should know.
What is Borage Oil?
Borage oil is extracted from the seeds of the borage plant, or Borago officinalis. Sometimes it is called starflower oil. Borage oil is mostly known for its high gamma linolenic acid (GLA) content. GLA is a form of omega-6 fatty acid that the body can convert into other fatty acids used by the body for other activities. To learn more about how different fatty acids work in the body, read about the omega-3 vs omega-6 inflammation balance. Borage oil is sold as capsules and sometimes as an oil for topical application. But “natural” doesn’t always equal entirely safe. The quality of the product and the method it is prepared are important.
7 Potential Advantages of Borage Oil
1. May Promote Healthy Skin
One of the most popular reasons people use borage oil is for the health of their skin. Because borage oil includes GLA, experts have studied whether it might help sustain the skin’s normal barrier and reduce inflammation. The evidence isn’t solid enough to indicate that borage oil helps treat skin issues, though. The evidence for borage oil in disorders such as atopic dermatitis is conflicting, according to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. A Cochrane analysis reported no clinical benefit in eczema with oral borage or evening primrose oil. So it might help some people as part of a skin care regimen, but it should not substitute professional therapy for a skin disease.
2. Can Help Support Skin Barrier
A strong skin barrier helps to preserve moisture in the skin and protects the skin from irritants from the outside. Proper hydration for glowing skin and better digestion works alongside essential fatty acids to keep your skin healthy. The fatty acids in borage oil have made it a source of interest for those with dry or rough skin. Some people use borage oil products to make the skin feel smoother and less dry. But we need more research to discover how effective borage oil actually is for routine skin care. If used on skin, try a small patch first. This is particularly crucial if you have sensitive skin.
3. May Have Anti-Inflammatory Properties
GLA is one reason borage oil has been examined for its effects on inflammation. GLA can be transformed in the body into other chemicals implicated in inflammatory pathways. You can also explore hidden signs of inflammation in body to understand how systemic responses affect overall health. So researchers have started to investigate borage oil for inflammation-related disorders, specifically joint difficulties. Clinical trials have provided some evidence that borage oil may aid with symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, although further research is needed. The Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center believes there’s some little evidence that it can help ease the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. This is not to say that you should replace doctor-prescribed arthritic drugs with borage oil.
4. Can assist in joint comfort
Borage oil has also been investigated for joint health. Some studies suggest that the GLA may be helpful for the inflammatory processes involved in rheumatoid arthritis. This is one of the better-researched probable uses for borage oil, compared to some of the beauty claims you see online. If you suffer from joint discomfort, you might also be interested in ayurvedic treatment for gout. Joint difficulties: People with joint problems should still speak to their doctor before taking borage oil, especially if they currently take drugs for pain, inflammation, or blood thinning.
5. May Help Hair and Scalp Health
Borage oil is also sold for the health of the hair. The fatty acids in the oil may aid in strengthening the skin on the scalp, particularly when there is an issue with dryness. Some people use oils containing GLA to reduce the dryness of the scalp and improve the general feel of their hair. But there is not enough convincing data to claim that taking borage oil can make hair grow faster or prevent hair loss. If hair loss is abrupt, severe, or becoming worse, check our guide on can lost hair grow back naturally to uncover the true cause instead of relying simply on an oil supplement.
6. May Help With Total Fatty Acid Intake
Borage oil is high in GLA content, which is not the case for many cooking oils. Healthy fats are a key ingredient of a healthy diet, and fatty acids play several roles in the body. But taking more of a supplement doesn’t always guarantee better health. Your body needs the correct number of nutrients, and a well-rounded diet cannot be replaced by supplements. To learn more about dietary additions, check out do supplements really work. The long-term safety of GLA supplements is also not well known.
7. May Help Certain Inflammatory Conditions
Researchers are looking at borage oil for prospective impacts on inflammatory pathways. Hence, it has been investigated for inflammatory disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis and other skin conditions. Understanding the hidden link inflammation chronic diseases share can give a broader picture of why fatty acids are studied. But this is a field where it’s crucial not to believe every promise you find online. Some applications have promising research; others have mixed evidence.
For example, there is no proof that borage oil is an effective treatment for atopic eczema.
| Use | What may be possible | Strength of evidence |
|---|---|---|
| Dry skin | May support skin moisture and barrier | Limited |
| Skin inflammation | Has been studied because of GLA | Mixed |
| Hair health | May support a healthy scalp | Limited |
| Hair growth | Not proven to increase growth | Weak |
| Joint health | May help some arthritis symptoms | Moderate |
| General health | Provides GLA | Not a cure or treatment |
This chart is significant since a lot of websites make borage oil sound like it’s going to solve multiple issues. For all of these purposes the evidence is not very solid.
How To Use Borage Oil?
Borage oil is available in numerous forms, such as capsules and topical oils. If you’re taking it as a supplement, go by the product directions, and don’t take more because you think a bigger dose would work faster. If you wish to use it on your skin, test a small amount first and see how your skin reacts. Do not apply to broken or irritated skin. If you’re taking medicines or have a health issue, ask your doctor or pharmacist before you start taking a supplement.
Side Effects of Borage Oil
Borage oil can cause some people to have moderate negative effects.
These may include:
- Headache
- Nausea
- Stomach upset
- Gas
- Burping
- Loose stool
Some formulations of borage oil, however, may include pyrrolizidine alkaloids that could cause liver toxicity. That’s why it’s so vital to choose a product that’s verified to be free of these. Not all borage oil supplements marketed online are necessarily equally safe.
Who Should Not Use Borage Oil?
Borage oil is not advised during pregnancy or breastfeeding due to safety concerns. It is also not recommended for anyone with liver problems, unless instructed otherwise by their healthcare provider. You should also talk to a healthcare provider before use if you take blood thinners or drugs that can harm the liver. Supplements may potentially interact with the drugs you take, so it’s vital to notify your doctor about everything you take.
How to Select a Good Borage Oil Supplement?
If you are going to buy borage oil, don’t only look at the price. Check the label for one that clearly specifies that it is devoid of unsaturated pyrrolizidine alkaloids (UPAs).
You might also like to see:
What you want:
- GLA contents
- Expiration Date
- Manufacturer info
- Suggested serving size
- Testing or certification of quality
Stay away from items that promise big things like “cures hair loss” or “removes all skin problems”.
Sum up,
There are a few noteworthy benefits of borage oil, especially because it is a high source of GLA. It’s been examined for skin health, inflammation, and joint concerns, but the evidence isn’t consistent for each claim. Borage oil may be effective for certain people, but it should not be viewed as a miracle cure for glowing skin, hair growth, or other health concerns. Developing healthy lifestyle habits alongside proper nutrition is always key. The most important thing to remember is safety. Some borage products may contain substances that might be harmful to the liver, so it is crucial to choose a certified PA-free product. It should also be avoided while pregnant and breastfeeding. If you wish to use borage oil for a particular health concern, especially if you use medicines or have a health condition, consult a healthcare provider first.
FAQs
What is borage oil good for?
Borage oil is primarily utilized as a source of GLA and has been examined for its effects on skin health, inflammation, and joint problems.
Is borage oil good for skin?
It might be good for your skin, but the study is mixed. If you prefer external remedies, you can explore home remedies for glowing skin instead of relying on it as a proven treatment for eczema or other skin problems.
Does borage oil aid hair growth?
There is little data to suggest that borage oil can boost hair growth or prevent hair loss. For male hair loss concerns, read our guide on hair fall tips for men.
Does borage oil have any adverse effects?
Yeah. Some people may have nausea, upset stomach, headache, gas, or loose stools. Some items may also include liver-damaging chemicals.
Is borage oil safe to take during pregnancy?
No. There are potential safety concerns with the use of borage oil during pregnancy and when breastfeeding.
What to watch for while buying borage oil?
Look for a product certified free of unsaturated pyrrolizidine alkaloids. This is a major safety point.
Can you use borage oil topically on your face?
Yes, you can use borage oil topically on your face. Some people use borage oil topically, but try it on a patch of skin first. If redness, itching or irritation develop, stop.
