What Are Borage Supplements?

Borage supplements are herbal supplements created from a plant known as the starflower or borage plant. The main supplement made from the plant, known as borage oil, is usually sold in gelcap form, similar to fish oil products. Borage oil is also sometimes mixed with oil extracts from currants and other natural plants that contain an element known as gamma-linolenic acid or GLA. Supplements of this type are claimed to aid in treating a number of ailments, including rheumatoid arthritis, eczema, and even in minimizing the symptoms of menopause.

The starflower is found in a number of places around the world, including parts of Africa, South America and in the Mediterranean area. Oil is usually extracted from the blooms on the plant, although some herbalists will also make use of the stems and other portions of the borage plant. Borage supplements are typically prepared by encasing the oil in a gelcap that will dissolve gradually over several hours after consumption. People who have problems with blood glucose, skin rashes and conditions, and stiffness in the joints may find that use of these types of borage supplements helps to alleviate some of the symptoms and discomfort associated with these conditions.

Purchasing borage supplements is a relatively simple task. Most herbal shops, vitamin shops and health food stores that carry fish oil and evening primrose oil products are also likely to offer the supplements for sale. In addition to purchase at local shops, it is also possible to order the borage oil supplements from a number of online retailers and mail order companies.

The recommended dosage will vary, based on the type of ailment that is present. It is not unusual for herbalists to combine the use of borage supplements with other herbs as a means of treating a specific illness, although the supplements can also be used as stand alone products. As with the use of any herbs, it is important to be aware of possible negative interactions between the borage supplements and other herbs or prescription medications.

Although borage supplements are popular in many areas of the world, the starflower is also used in the preparation of a number of types of cuisine. Along with a variety of dishes native to the Mediterranean, Africa, and South America, the plant is often used in German dishes. This approach can also help people to enjoy the medicinal aspects provided by the plant, while also providing additional flavor in salads, soups, and a number of other recipes.