Borage oil is obtained by cold pressing the borage officinalis plant. It is a true concentrate of Omega 6 and is, therefore, widely used for body care and as a natural anti-inflammatory. This article will tell you how to use this oil to get the most out of it.
Borage Oil: What Is It and How Is It Obtained?
Borage oil is obtained by cold pressing the borage seeds, a plant native to Italy, America, and Europe. In Anglo-Saxon countries, the borage is called the starflower, and its blue and purple flowers are very recognizable. Its properties have been known for centuries, and its seed oil is considered a wellness panacea because it is one of the scarce sources of plant-derived gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), along with black currant and evening primrose. The latter is synthesized in the body from fatty acids found in certain foods, such as dried fruits.
For women, in particular, utilizing borage oil’s benefits can positively impact both beauty and hormonal balance. It works wonders on the skin, nails, wrinkled eyes, breasts, and hair and promotes internal purification. This natural flower star (also used as a base for various traditional dishes) is a beauty elixir rich in omega-6.
Properties and Benefits of Borage Oil
Cold-pressed borage oil has numerous benefits. In fact, it is used in the cosmetic field for
- Skin care: It has a revitalizing effect on dry, dermatitis-prone, and acne-prone skin. It regulates the formation of sebaceous glands and purifies the skin with its anti-inflammatory properties. It is ideal for treating eczema, psoriasis, rashes, and peeling skin. Additionally, when applied in small doses at night, it leaves the skin soft and silky. Its antioxidant properties prevent and counteract the formation of stretch marks while nourishing the skin and can be used in combination with other oils.
- Strengthens nails.
- Is associated with breast enhancement. Borage oil is often used as an ingredient in elasticity creams applied to the breasts.
- Is a natural anti-wrinkle agent. Its elasticity and antioxidant properties help combat wrinkle formation and skin aging. It is a true anti-ageing, often used in cosmetics.
- Purifies hair and prevents dandruff.
- Softens and nourishes baby skin.
Borage Oil Balances Hormones
But borage oil is not only used in the beauty field. In fact, it has long been used to balance women’s menstrual cycles because of its estrogen-like phytoactive compounds. It is therefore recommended as an adjunct in treating menopausal symptoms in cases of excessive menstruation or excessive menstrual cramps.
It should be taken as an oral supplement when applied directly to the skin for cosmetic purposes. It is sold in small pearl form to treat irregular menstruation, amenorrhea, and hormonal imbalances. The oil also has antioxidant and therapeutic properties related to the cardiovascular system.
Borage Oil Prevents Cardiovascular Risk
Several scientific studies have shown that borage oil has several cardiovascular benefits: it is very rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids such as alpha-linolenic acid (32-38%), linoleic acid (GLA, 18-25%) and oleic acid (15-19%), it is naturally anti-inflammatory, and it is useful in the treatment of several pathologies, including
- Rheumatoid arthritis, Sjogren’s syndrome
- Atopic dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis
- Osteoporosis, diabetes, hypertension
- Premenstrual syndrome
How to Consume Borage Oil
Borage oil is applied directly to the skin in oil-based products for nourishing, emollient, and other cosmetic purposes. However, for internal use, it is taken in the form of a supplement under the guidance of a physician. Dosage varies from person to person, generally starting at a few grams per day, but only a physician can specify the proper dosage.
The only caution when using oils is to use only pure (preferably organic) products obtained by cold pressing the seeds. This way, 100% of the beneficial properties of the ingredients can be maintained. As a supplement, it is presented in pearl form (sold in pharmacies and herb stores). It is usually taken once or twice, depending on the treated disease. This type of supplement can also be purchased over the Internet (in this case, home delivery and electronic payment are convenient). It is essential to choose only certified products from well-known companies. Many offer oils from plants grown using organic methods, guaranteeing high quality from the root.
