Borage & Fish Oil

Borage seed oil and fish oil are two dietary supplements that contain fatty acids that may provide a range of health benefits, although there is not enough evidence to support these claims. According to Share Guide and Dr. Robert Oh, both of these oils have anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce arthritis symptoms. However, each supplement contains different types of fatty acids, which makes them each unique in their specific functions and health-promoting properties. As with any dietary supplement, consult a medical professional before using borage seed oil and fish oil.

Borage Oil

Borage, also known as starflower, originates in Syria and has been used throughout history as a culinary herb in soups, salads, pickling spices, sauces and honey. Borage oil is extracted from the plant seeds and is one of the richest known sources of gamma linolenic acid--GLA. According to the May 2010 issue of "Share Guide," GLA is converted to prostaglandin E1 in your body, which is an anti-inflammatory hormone that can help support your immune system, kidney functions and improve arterial muscle tone.

Borage Oil Benefits

Borage seed oil has a number of health benefits, although there is insufficient evidence to support these claims. "Share Guide" states that it can thin your blood and help dilate blood vessels, which may help lower your blood pressure. The GLA in borage oil may also improve PMS symptoms and help relieve breast tenderness. Borage oil's anti-inflammatory actions may help treat allergies, arthritis and skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema. The fatty acids in borage oil can also help your body absorb calcium more readily and protects against osteoporosis, according to Share Guide. Consult with your health care provider prior to taking borage oil.

Borage Oil Precautions

According to Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, borage oil may contain pyrrolizidine alkaloid, which are chemicals that can cause liver damage, especially in high doses over long periods. When choosing a borage oil product, inquire whether it is certified PA-free. Borage oil may not be safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Consult with your physician if you experience side effects such as stomach pain or upset, yellow skin or eyes or dark urine.

Fish Oil

Fish oil was first produced in England in 1775 from cod liver. The fish oil industry changed in 1980 when manufacturers began extracting oil from the body of fish, rather than just the liver. Extraction involves boiling the fish until the oil rises to the top, and then rendering it off for encapsulation. Since fish oil can contain a number of toxins including PCBs, DDT and mercury, manufacturers then use advanced chemical engineering to remove saturated fats and toxins from the oil, making it safe for ingestion. Fish oil contains omega 3 fatty acids like EPA and DHA, but there is not enough evidence to support its health benefits.

Fish Oil Benefits

Fish oil may have multiple health benefits, particularly on the cardiovascular system. According to Dr. Robert Oh, omega 3 fatty acids in fish oil may help prevent cardiovascular disease, coronary artery disease and heart attack. Dr. Oh also states that fish oil may also help lower triglyceride levels by as much as 20 to 50 percent. The anti-inflammatory effects of fish oil may help reduce arthritis pain and your need for anti-inflammatory drugs in as little as three months. Taking fish oil during pregnancy can reduce your risk for premature delivery and improve fetal brain development, especially during your third trimester. Consult with your health care provider prior to taking fish oil.

Fish Oil Precautions

According to Dr. Oh, fish oil supplementation is generally considered safe. Since certain fish have higher levels of mercury than others including sharks, swordfish, king mackerel and tile fish, choose a fish oil supplement that does not come from such sources and from a manufacturer that can verify it is free of mercury and other toxins. Dr. Oh states that fish oil may slightly raise your LDL levels, thin your blood, increase bleeding time and slightly raise blood glucose levels. Consult with your health care provider prior to taking fish oil, especially if you are taking a blood thinner, have diabetes, or elevated cholesterol.