Borage vegetable oil: benefits and uses in herbal medicine

Borage oil is obtained from the seeds of the plant. These seeds are particularly rich in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). It is an omega 6 fatty acid considered essential. For what ? Because it is not directly produced by the body but is obtained through our diet. How is it beneficial for our health? This AGL is converted into dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid (DLFA) which itself promotes the synthesis of compounds anti-inflammatories. Among them the famous prostaglandins type 1 (PGE 1). Alongside this, AGDL allows the reduction of the synthesis of pro-inflammatory metabolites. In other words, Borage oil, thanks to its rich AGL composition, makes it possible to fight against inflammation. Research has highlighted the effectiveness of AGLs, particularly in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. Numerous clinical studies have shown that FFA supplementation helps reduce pain, inflammation and sensitivity in the joints.

The rich composition of Borage vegetable oil in polyunsaturated fatty acids gives it anti-inflammatory and soothing properties. In addition, the particularity of Borage is its rich composition in a particular fatty acid, gamma-linolenic acid. It acts directly and indirectly via anti-inflammatory processes. These properties are ideal in case of dermatoses of all kinds such as eczema, psoriasis or other dermatological disorders. In this case, vegetable oil can be used cutaneously directly on the area in question but also orally.

As mentioned previously, Borage oil is rich in GLA, an essential fatty acid with anti-inflammatory properties. In addition to these properties, AGL has proven effective in cases of cardiovascular disorders. AGL significantly reduces LDL cholesterol, but also blood pressure and triglyceride levels.

In addition to a rich composition in polyunsaturated fatty acids, Borage oil seems to benefit from a varied composition in vitamins and in particular in vitamin E. These latter ensure anti-oxidant properties very interesting to fight against wrinkles. Indeed, by fighting against free radicals, the cause of tissue aging, Borage oil will strengthen its action against wrinkles. It can also be used to prevent wrinkles and stretch marks.

Borage oil is particularly rich in unsaturated fatty acids and vitamins. Thus it will be perfectly suited to dry, sensitive, fragile skin as much for the face than the body. It restores suppleness and elasticity to dry skin once nourished.

Just as it is suitable for dry skin, Borage oil will also be suitable for hair dry and brittle. It restores vitality and health to hair losing shine.

There hair loss may be due to an increase in the level of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in the blood. Borage oil contains oleic acid, a fatty acid from the omega-9 family, which helps block 5-alpha-reductase. This enzyme is responsible for converting testosterone into dihydrotestosterone. The DHT level is thus kept low, and hair loss is reduced. 

The life cycle of hair is largely governed by hormones. Over the course of life, hormonal balance evolves and thus influences several physiological parameters such as hair growth. Hair grows less and less quickly. Thanks to its phytoestrogen content, Borage oil has an estrogen-like action which helps maintain a good hormonal balance in the body. It thus makes it possible to maintain an anagen phase (phase where the hair grows) long enough so that growth does not slow down over time.