Borage oil is derived from the seeds of the borage plant, an annual herb that grows in many different parts of the world. Borage oil may also be called starflower oil due to the appearance of the plant's flowers. Although sometimes incorporated into cosmetics, borage oil is mainly produced for the dietary supplement market.
Omega-6 Oil
Borage oil contains gamma-linolenic acid or GLA, an omega-6 fatty acid. Like omega-3 fatty acids, omega-6 fatty acids are described as essential fatty acids because your body can't produce them on its own. Most Westerners eat far too many omega-6 oils. According to the Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University, early humans ate nearly equal amounts of omega-6 to omega 3 fatty acids, while modern Westerners typically consume at least 10 times as much omega-6 as omega-3.
GLA
Borage oil is often differentiated from other omega-6 oils due to its GLA content. Most omega-6 fatty acids promote inflammation in your body; GLA, however, may actually counter inflammation as your body converts GLA into dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid, or DGLA, a substance that works to reduce inflammation. According to the UK's National Non-food Crops Center, borage oil contains about 23 to 24 percent GLA.
Uses
People use borage oil to treat a variety of different conditions. A few uses are supported by scientific evidence. For instance, studies have shown that GLA can reduce nerve pain in patients suffering from diabetic neuropathy. A few studies have also shown that GLA may help ease symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, although other studies have not reported these same benefits. GLA is also used to treat many other conditions despite lack of firm scientific evidence. Some of these conditions include allergies, menopausal symptoms, multiple sclerosis and premenstrual syndrome.
Taking Borage Oil
Borage oil is generally consumed as a dietary supplement, either in capsules or in a liquid form. It is widely available from natural food stores and other retailers specializing in dietary supplements. Talk to a health care professional if you're interested in taking borage oil; she can advise you on likely effectiveness and appropriate dosing. Borage oil may not be suitable for everyone. For instance, taking borage oil during pregnancy can raise your risk for early labor. GLA may also increase the likelihood of seizures in people with seizure disorders.
Other GLA-containing Oils
Evening primrose oil and black currant seed oil also contain GLA, although in smaller amounts than borage oil. Researchers do not currently know how these oils differ in their effects on the body. If you do not experience desired results using borage oil, it may be worth experimenting with evening primrose or black currant seed oil before giving up on GLA supplementation.
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