Not many people have heard of borage oil. There are plenty of more popular oil-based supplements on the market, and borage oil rarely gets the attention it deserves. Yet this lesser-known oil possesses a remarkable range of health-supporting properties, making it well worth a closer look to understand how it may benefit your wellbeing.
What Is Borage Oil and What Does It Contain?
Borage oil is cold-pressed from the seeds of Borago officinalis, commonly known as borage or starflower. The plant is native to the Mediterranean region but is also cultivated across Central Europe, including Poland. It often grows wild and can be mistaken for a weed. Borage is easily recognised by its distinctive blue, star-shaped flowers, rough hairy stems, and a fresh scent reminiscent of cucumber — which is how it earned its name in many languages.
What makes borage oil particularly valued in natural health is its exceptionally rich composition. The oil contains flavonoids, mucilage, tannins, resins, organic acids, and mineral salts. Its mineral content is noteworthy, including:
- Silicon — supports joints, hair, skin, and nails, and may contribute to anti-inflammatory processes
- Potassium — helps transport nutrients to cells and supports normal nervous system function
- Magnesium — participates in protein and carbohydrate metabolism and electrolyte transport
- Zinc — plays a role in metabolic processes and supports healthy hair, skin, and nails
- Iron — contributes to normal red blood cell formation and oxygen transport
Borage oil is also a good source of vitamin C, which supports the immune system, and carotene, which contributes to antioxidant protection. However, the oil's true star ingredient is something else entirely.
[tip:Borage oil contains one of the highest natural concentrations of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) found in any plant source — significantly more than evening primrose oil, which is often marketed for the same purpose.]GLA — The Key to Borage Oil's Properties
The main health-supporting compound in borage oil is gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an omega-6 fatty acid that the body cannot produce on its own. GLA is the primary reason borage oil has attracted so much attention in both traditional and modern natural health practices.
GLA is involved in the production of prostaglandins — hormone-like substances that play a role in regulating inflammation, immune response, and various other body processes. This makes borage oil potentially useful across a wide range of health concerns:
Anti-inflammatory support: By supporting healthy circulation, borage oil may help ease the discomfort associated with inflammatory conditions. It has been traditionally used by individuals dealing with joint stiffness and swelling, including those associated with rheumatoid concerns. For additional joint support, explore our bone, joint and cartilage supplements.
Skin health: GLA deficiency has been linked to various skin concerns. Supplementing with borage oil may help replenish GLA levels, potentially supporting those dealing with dry, irritated, or sensitive skin conditions such as eczema or atopic dermatitis. The oil may also help improve skin hydration, elasticity, and comfort — reducing feelings of tightness and irritation.
Hormonal balance: Borage oil has traditionally been used to help ease symptoms associated with premenstrual syndrome (PMS), including mood changes, breast tenderness, and bloating. Its GLA content is thought to support the body's natural hormonal regulation.
Antioxidant protection: The combination of carotene and vitamin C in borage oil contributes to its antioxidant capacity, helping protect cells from oxidative stress and supporting the body's natural defences. Browse our immune system collection for additional protective support.
How to Use Borage Oil
Borage oil is recommended for adults. The typical daily dosage ranges from 500 mg to 3 g, depending on individual needs and the concentration of the specific product. If you are experiencing increased discomfort from inflammation or other concerns, the dose may be moderately increased — though it is always advisable to consult a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your supplementation routine.
Borage oil is most commonly available in capsule form, which makes dosing convenient and consistent. It can also be found as a liquid oil for those who prefer to add it to food or apply it topically to the skin.
Borage Oil in Skincare
Thanks to its beneficial effects on the skin, borage oil is increasingly used as an ingredient in skincare products. You may find it in creams, serums, and face oils designed for:
- Dry and dehydrated skin — its emollient properties provide deep nourishment
- Tired and dull complexions — GLA may help restore radiance and vitality
- Mature skin — its antioxidant content may support a more youthful appearance
- Sensitive and irritation-prone skin — its soothing properties may calm reactive skin
For a comprehensive approach to skin wellness, consider combining topical use with internal supplementation. Our hair, skin and nails supplements offer additional targeted support.
[products:aliness-organic-silicon-from-bamboo-shoots-500-mg-100-veg-capsules, aura-herbals-silidrop-organic-silicon-boron-liquid-500-ml, solgar-gentle-iron-25-mg-90-vegetable-capsules, aliness-vitamin-c-1000-mg-100-veg-capsules, aliness-organic-zinc-trio-15-mg-100-tablets, solgar-magnesium-citrate-120-tablets]How to Choose a Quality Borage Oil
When selecting borage oil, composition is key. A quality product should have approximately the following fatty acid profile:
- ~40% linoleic acid
- ~15% oleic acid
- Up to 25% GLA (gamma-linolenic acid)
This ratio — or something close to it — is considered optimal for health-supporting purposes. Additionally, look for oil that is:
- Cold-pressed — extracted at temperatures below 40°C to preserve its delicate fatty acids
- Unfiltered and unrefined — minimal processing retains the full spectrum of beneficial compounds
- Clearly labelled — with exact percentages of key fatty acids listed on the packaging
Storage
Borage oil should be kept in a cool, shaded place — the refrigerator is an excellent choice. Like other GLA-rich oils, it is sensitive to light and heat, so proper storage is essential to maintain its potency and extend its shelf life.
[warning:Always consult a healthcare professional before starting borage oil supplementation, especially if you are taking blood-thinning medications or are pregnant. GLA supplements may interact with certain medications.]An Underrated Natural Ally
Borage oil may not enjoy the fame of olive oil or fish oil, but its uniquely high GLA content makes it one of the most interesting plant-based supplements for those dealing with inflammatory discomfort, skin concerns, or hormonal imbalance. Its rich mineral and vitamin profile adds further versatility. For anyone looking to broaden their natural wellness toolkit beyond the usual options, borage oil is a discovery well worth making. Explore our full range of herbal supplements for more plant-based health solutions.
Key Takeaway: Borage oil is one of nature's richest sources of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), a fatty acid that may support skin health, ease inflammatory discomfort, and help with hormonal balance. Choose cold-pressed, unrefined oil with clearly labelled GLA content, and store it in the refrigerator for best results.
