Contents
CONSEQUENCIES OF TAKING BORAGE
What are the side effects of borage?
No risks of side effects have been shown when borage is eaten as food, or as borage oil supplements in recommended doses.
Even then, borage has some contraindications, so it is important to consult a specialist before starting its administration.
Generally, supplementation with essential fatty acids usually takes between 2 and 6 months to be effective in most cases (pain, arthritis, etc.).
Since borage contains alkaloids, for such long treatments, it is preferable to use other supplements exempt of these components. It is preferable to use other plant sources for the same benefits (evening primrose oil, black currant oil).
Side effects of borage oil
Borage oil is a safe supplement, which usually has very few side effects and it is well tolerated for most people.
The borage oil supplements can have a laxative effect and produce diarrhea, in which case you should reduce the dose or stop treatment.
Gastrointestinal adverse reactions, including nausea, malaise, feeling of heaviness in the stomach, loose stools may occur.
Occasionally it can cause headaches.
* More information: Borage Contraindications in the listing below
Borage flower photo, one of the most characteristic parts of the plant
How much borage should be taken?
Borage oil, internal use:
- 1000mg of borage oil containing 240 mg gamma-linolenic, which is the amount used in most treatments. We can get the same amount of oil from blackcurrant 1500mg or 3000mg from evening primrose oil.
People who eat borage oil supplements should use certificated products that do not contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids.
Borage leaves, external use:
- In a poultice of leaves and flowers, for its demulcent action.
Borage flowers, internal use:
- Infusion: 5-10g / liter. Infuse for 10 minutes. One to three cups a day.
More information on borage.
