Borage (Borago officinalis)

*Designated an invasive species in the following states, no sale: AK

A blue floral dream awaits us as well as a steady stream of buzzing bees when we plant seeds of Borage. In the Boraganaceae family, this is a special pollinator plant that offers curvy dancing stems with star like blue flowers. The flowers and young leaves of this amazing plant are a delightful treat to eat in the summer heat and taste a bit like cucumber.

Borage flowers truly do look like stars and have an essence of magic with their slightly hairy stems and leaves that seem to glow in certain light. Historically, Borage was described as an ally of the heart that could dispel sadness and melancholy and bring “gladness and joy to all”. Borage is also known as the flower of courage. The Celtic name for Borage is Borrach which translates to courage. Celtic warriors traditionally drank Borage flavored wine before going into battle to increase their strength and fortitude.

Borage seeds contain a very high level of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), a fatty acid that is essential in preventing the development of atherosclerosis and that have a significant anti-inflammatory action. Borage oil has been shown to have benefits to the skin overall and for inflammatory conditions of the skin. *Important to note that Various parts of the Borage plant have been found to contain from 2-10 parts per million (ppm) of pyrrolizidine alkaloids, similar to those found in comfrey and coltsfoot. Proper medicinal dosing is recommended for Borage.