Borage is an annual in the Boraginaceae family. It is a prolific seeder so can become a nuisance if it is allowed to mature. The species name shows that it has medicinal uses. Borage or Starflower oil, pressed from the seeds is high in gamma-linoleic acid (GLA) which can help to reduce blood cholesterol levels and blood pressure. The leaves can be used to induce sweating, as a diuretic, to sooth a sore throat and applied externally to sooth irritated skin - it also contains harmful alkaloids so should only be taken medicinally if prescribed by a herbalist. The dark green, ovate leaves have wavy edges arranged alternately on the stems. A mature plant has many stems which are hollow and can be up to 70 cm in height. The lower leaves and stems are covered with stiff hairs. Hoe or hand pull seedlings, more mature plants have large taptoots. The hairs can be very irritant, so it may be advisable to wear gloves when handling them. Also a mask may be needed to avoid inhaling them, especially if the foliage has dried. |
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Nicholas Culpepper
(17th century astrologer-physician)
" The leaves, flowers and seeds are good to expel pensiveness and melancholy"
Other plants with similar leaves include Comfrey, Tuberous Comfrey, Green Alkanet and Foxgloves
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