Botanical characteristics of Borago officinalis
Borago officinalis, Commonly known as borage, is an annual herbaceous plant belonging to the Boraginaceae family, notable for its robust appearance and its intense covering of stiff hairs. It can reach heights ranging from 30 to 100 centimeters, depending on the growing conditions. culture and the environment. Its stems are erect, thick and branched, with a hollow appearance and somewhat mucilaginous to the touch. The basal leaves They are large, oval, wrinkled and long-petiolated, while the upper ones are smaller, embrace the stem and have a rough texture due to the presence of numerous white hairs.
The flowers They emerge in scorpioid cymes, forming large clusters that open simultaneously. Each flower has five narrow, triangular petals, the predominant color being blue, although there are varieties with white or pink flowers. These actinomorphic and hermaphroditic flowers are notable for their star shape. The fruit is a dehiscent tetrachene, containing four dark nutlets.
Borage is native to the Mediterranean basin and western Asia, although it has naturalized throughout much of Europe and North America. It prefers slightly moist, loose soils rich in organic matter, and is common in vegetable gardens, roadsides, and wastelands.
Active ingredients and composition of borage
La borage It is known for its richness in active ingredients. These include:
- Essential fatty acids: Especially in its seeds, which contain high percentages of linoleic acid (omega-6), gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), and linolenic acid (omega-3). Borage oil is especially valued for its GLA content, a precursor to prostaglandin E1.
- Mucilages: Present in leaves and flowers, they represent up to 11% of the mass, providing soothing and expectorant properties.
- Pyrrolizidine alkaloids: Including lycopsamine, amabilin and supinine, which may present liver toxicity with prolonged use or high doses.
- Mineral salts: As potassium nitrate, iron and potassium, which reinforce its diuretic and remineralizing properties.
- Tannins, flavonoids, vitamin C and silicic acid: Which contribute to antioxidant action and strengthen the immune system.
The oil extracted from the seed is highly appreciated in Phytotherapy, cosmetics and nutritional supplements.
Culinary uses of borage
La borage It has multiple applications in traditional cuisine, especially in regions such as Aragon, La Rioja, Navarre and Mediterranean areas where it has become an emblematic ingredient. All aerial parts, especially the young stems and leavesThey are used as a fresh or cooked vegetable. Their refreshing flavor, with notes reminiscent of cucumber, makes them an ideal addition to salads, soups, creams, and stews.
- The clean stems They can be steamed or boiled, accompanied by potatoes and seasoned with olive oil and a touch of garlic.
- The tender leaves They are eaten raw in salads, boiled, battered and fried ("crespillos"), or combined in omelets and scrambled eggs with mushrooms and eggs.
- The flowers are used as decoration in salads and desserts, and can be crystallized with sugar to be used as a decoration in pastries.
- In the Italian region of Liguria, it is a basic ingredient in the famous "Preboggion," a locally prized blend of wild herbs.
- In Mallorca, they are used to flavor fritters, and in France and Italy, they are considered a select and delicate vegetable.
Medicinal properties and traditional remedies
Historically, the borage It has been valued both in folk medicine and in modern phytotherapy due to its multiple expected benefits:
- Diuretic and sudorific action: Its leaves and flowers promote the elimination of fluids and sweating, being useful against fluid retention, mild urinary tract infections and as a natural purifier.
- expectorant propertiesThe mucilages present in the plant help relieve coughs, colds and mild bronchial conditions.
- hormone regulation: The seed oil is used to alleviate discomfort associated with the menstrual cycle or menopause, as well as to relieve rheumatic pain and improve the body's lipid profile.
- Anti-inflammatory and emollient action:Both internally and externally, borage is used in poultices or infusions to soothe irritated skin, treat eczema, dermatitis or swelling.
- Hair strengthening: Thanks to its linoleic acid content, it helps improve the health and resistance of hair.
Some traditional remedies include flower infusions for fever and colds, compresses for sensitive skin, and leaf decoctions as a purifying agent. Their use should be moderate and supervised, especially during prolonged treatment.
Precautions, toxicity and contraindications
Despite its numerous benefits, the borage contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids which, in high concentrations or with prolonged use, can be toxic to the liver. Therefore, it is recommended not to overuse the plant, and to avoid it during pregnancy, breastfeeding, and in people with liver conditions. Properly refined seed oil, in appropriate doses, presents a much lower risk and can be safely used in nutritional and cosmetic products.
When consuming borage supplements or oils, it's essential to ensure their quality and purity, and if you have any questions, consult a healthcare professional.
Cosmetic uses of borage
El borraja's oil It has recognized cosmetic properties thanks to its essential fatty acids:
- Deep hydration: Strengthens the skin's lipid barrier, prevents dehydration and improves elasticity.
- anti-inflammatory action: Relieves redness, inflammation and conditions such as eczema, psoriasis or dermatitis.
- Antioxidant and regenerator: Promotes cell regeneration, softens the signs of aging and helps skin exposed to external aggressions.
- balancing: It can regulate sebum production and is suitable for oily or combination skin.
This oil is used in both facial and body care products, as well as in specific formulations for hair and nails.
Common names and curiosities
Borago officinalis is known by numerous popular names, including borage, aborraja, alcohelo, argabazo, borracha, borraina, and ox tongue. In Spanish popular culture, there is the expression "acabar en agua de borrajas" (to end in borage water), used to refer to seemingly important situations that end in nothing, a reference to the subtle flavor and low nutritional value of its broths.
Borage not only stands out for its culinary and medicinal history, but also for its versatility in multiple areas such as growing and caring for borageIts flowers and leaves provide color, flavor, and health benefits, making it an indispensable plant in any orchard or garden that focuses on diversity and natural remedies.
