Borage oil is prepared from a wildflower called borage or starflower. This flower is popular for its seeds, which contain a lot of borage oil. The oil is very rich in a fatty acid known as gamma-linolenic acid as well as nervonic acid, stearic acid, palmitic acid, eicosenoic acid, erucic acid and many other antioxidants.
The benefits of borage oil include its soothing pain, lowering blood sugar, lowering inflammation, reducing stress levels, protecting heart health, treating skin disorders, improving female health, calming hyperactivity, lowering respiratory distress, aiding weight loss, and preventing chronic disease.
Let’s take a look at the many benefits of borage oil.
Treats Respiratory Problems
Borage oil contains mucilage is which helps to treat respiratory health issues, such as congestion and infections. It can eliminate mucus and phlegm, as well as fight the cause of infections and other respiratory tracts issues.
Prevents Heart Diseases
The fatty acids, especially gamma-linolenic acid, contained in borage oil are very good for the heart. It acts as a hypotensive substance and an anticoagulant while regulating cholesterol levels too. In fact, borage oil is effective in protecting the body against heart attacks, atherosclerosis, and strokes.
Treats Gum Disease
Some studies have indicated that borage oil possesses some anti-inflammatory properties that may be effective for treating periodontitis, also known as gum disease. As a matter of fact, it has been proven that borage oil supplements help to improve gum health and reduce gingivitis caused by periodontitis.
Reduces Obesity
Not many are aware that borage oil is a weight loss supplement, but the oil is known to help stimulate metabolism and reduce food cravings. Borage oil also regulates cholesterol levels, reducing fat and burning off calories.
Combats Cancers
Borage seed oil and gamma-linolenic acid both contain anti-mutagenic and antioxidant components that can fight the growth of cancerous cells. According to some studies, both components can eliminate toxic cells while also the body healthy as well. The use of borage oil supplement is a natural cancer treatment because it is effective in reducing the oxidative genetic damage that results in excess inflammation and cancers.
Relieves Inflammation
Borage oil contains polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats that reduce inflammation, have a significant antioxidant effect on the body, and lower oxidative stress which, in turn, lowers the chances of developing chronic diseases like cancer.
Alleviates Hangover
For someone who may have too much to drink, borage oil can be very helpful. This oil can improve the detoxification of the body, aid metabolism, increase energy, coat the stomach to alleviate hangovers.
Improve Skincare
Borage oil is topically applied to acne-affected face, neck, or chest. The oil moisturizes the skin, eliminates toxins, and regulates the production of sebum. In fact, the oil treats the symptoms of acne as well as reduces the appearance of scars resulting from the condition.
Regulates Diabetes
Diabetic patients can use borage oil daily to regulate their insulin resistance and blood sugar levels while also curbing the rise and drops in glucose in diabetes.
Relieves PMS Symptoms
Borage oil is known to help women who struggle with painful periods by stimulating their adrenal glands. The oil has a positive effect on a woman’s hormonal balance while relieving breast tenderness, mood swings, cramps, and of course, premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms.
Hair Care
For so many years, borage oil has been used to improve dry hair by massaging it into the scalp to prevent dandruff or dry skin. The oil can also reduce oxidative stress in the scalp and aid hair growth.
Treats Eczema
Inflammatory skin conditions are usually the hardest to treat, especially if they occur without a warning. However, a regular use of borage oil on psoriasis and eczema spots can have a soothing effect on the skin.
Relieves Pain
Borage oil is an effective pain reliever, particularly for chronic pain, soreness, and breast pain. The oil stimulates the secretion of some hormones that positively affect the body’s pain receptors, ease stress, and relieve even chronic pains.
In fact, the omega-6 fatty acids present in borage oil helps to regulate the production of prostaglandin which controls inflammation in the body. Gamma-linolenic acid found in the oil helps to lubricate the joints, especially in rheumatoid arthritis.
Reduces Anxiety
Borage oil is effective in reducing chronic anxiety and hyperactive disorder, as it can have a calming effect on the nervous system. This means it can improve concentration and lower stress hormones levels in the body.
Alleviates Depression
Borage oil has a hormonal effect that is beneficial for eliminating depression and anxiety while boosting mood in major ways. The oil is guaranteed to help keep your emotions under control daily.
Improves Male Fertility
Gamma-linolenic acid has proven helpful in stimulating blood flow and improving male fertility. However, women who are trying to conceive can find it helpful as it improves uterine function.
Supports Healthier Babies
According to some studies, when premature babies are given borage oil supplements, they are likely to grow and develop properly. Gamma-linolenic acid and omega-3 fatty acid supplements support the development of the central nervous systems while also reducing the risks of premature births.
Also, borage oil makes labor less painful for pregnant women. In fact, it’s commonly used for cervical ripening during late pregnancy, making the uterus ready for delivery. In cervical ripening, the cervix becomes shorter, making labor and delivery less painful and difficult. Some health practitioners use the oil as an alternative to conventional medications used in enhancing delivery.
