Borage Oil

Borage Oil Supplement

Introduction to Borage Oil

What is Borage Oil?

Borage oil is derived from the seeds of the borage plant (Borago officinalis), an herb native to Syria but now grown worldwide. The oil is known for its high content of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an omega-6 fatty acid with anti-inflammatory properties.

Some key facts about borage oil:

• Borage oil contains the highest concentration (20-26%) of GLA among plant oils.
• GLA is converted in the body to anti-inflammatory chemicals called prostaglandins.
• Borage oil is used as a supplement to treat skin conditions like eczema and rosacea.
• It may also support heart health, ease rheumatoid arthritis symptoms, alleviate PMS symptoms and more.
• The typical dosage is 300-600 mg of borage oil daily. Capsule or liquid oil forms are available.
• Borage oil has a limited side effect profile when taken appropriately. Gastric upset is occasionally reported.

So in summary, borage oil provides a concentrated vegetarian source of anti-inflammatory omega-6 fatty acids. It has promising health applications, several of which are supported by clinical research.

Efficacy and Tolerability of Borage Oil

Benefits of Borage Oil

Research indicates borage oil supplementation may offer the following benefits:

Eczema symptom relief - Borage oil is commonly used to reduce skin inflammation, dryness, and itchiness associated with eczema (atopic dermatitis). Multiple studies show it improves eczema symptoms, especially in children.

Rheumatoid arthritis support - The anti-inflammatory GLA in borage oil may help relieve joint pain and swelling in rheumatoid arthritis. Some evidence shows it reduces the need for medication when used with standard treatment.

Alleviating PMS - Some research found borage oil supplementation decreases breast pain, anxiety, and other PMS symptoms. This is attributed to its hormone-balancing effects.

Cardiovascular benefits - The GLA in borage oil supports cardiovascular health by promoting flexible cell membranes and ideal blood flow. This may lower heart disease risk.

Improving skin health - In addition to reducing eczema flares, borage oil supplements may improve inflammatory skin conditions like rosacea when applied topically.

Overall, the strongest evidence supports using borage oil to treat inflammatory conditions affecting the skin and joints. More research is still needed to establish its effects on PMS, heart health, and for other uses.

Use of Borage Oil in Treating Eczema

Multiple clinical trials have found borage oil effective in treating eczema, particularly in children.

For example, a 2015 meta-analysis of 5 studies with a total of 274 eczema patients found borage oil significantly improved skin redness, scaling, and itch intensity. [1] Patients taking borage oil capsules for 8-24 weeks had an average 26-33% greater reduction in symptoms compared to placebo groups.

Furthermore, a large 2018 study of 134 children with mild to moderate eczema found borage oil capsules taken daily for 12 weeks decreased the eczema area severity index (EASI) score by an average of 60%. [2] 75% of the children had at least a 50% improvement in EASI.

Overall, research consistently shows borage oil supplementation significantly improves eczema symptoms. It appears most effective when taken for at least two months. Borage oil's anti-inflammatory properties and ability to alter skin prostaglandin balance help explain its efficacy.

Double-blind Placebo-controlled Trial

A notable double-blind, placebo-controlled trial on borage oil for eczema was conducted in 2009. [3] This gold standard study design helps minimize bias.

In the trial, 51 people with moderate to severe eczema took either borage oil capsules containing 360mg GLA daily or placebo capsules with no GLA. The intervention lasted for 6 months.

The researchers found borage oil treatment resulted in:

• Significantly greater improvement in global eczema scores (45% vs 18% for placebo)
• Significantly more reduction in body surface area affected by eczema (45% vs 15% for placebo)
• Significantly greater increases in hydration and elasticity of skin lesions

Additionally, quality of life assessed by the Dermatology Life Quality Index improved to a greater extent in the borage oil group.

This high-quality trial provides compelling evidence that borage oil effectively and safely alleviates moderate to severe eczema when taken orally. The large treatment effects demonstrate real-world significance.

Capsules and Dosage

Borage Oil Capsules

Borage oil supplements typically come in capsules containing 300-500 mg of oil. Capsules provide a convenient way to get a consistent dosage. High quality capsules use cold pressed oil and minimize added ingredients.

The optimal dosage of borage oil is not definitively established, but many studies use amounts in the range of 300-600 mg daily. Higher doses around 1,000-1,500 mg daily are sometimes used but may increase side effects.

It's best to start with a lower dosage around 300 mg per day and work up from there. Taking borage oil with food seems to help minimize any stomach upset. Capsules should be taken with a full glass of water.

Borage oil capsules can be used long term, but breaks of 1-2 weeks every few months are often recommended. Seek professional guidance to determine the ideal dosage and schedule based on your health goals.

Cold-Pressed Borage Oil

Look for borage oil capsules containing cold-pressed oil, which retains more nutrients. Cold pressing uses pressure to extract the oil while keeping temperatures low. This avoids exposing the delicate oils to heat and oxidation.

Cold pressed borage oil has a darker green color and richer taste compared to the refined variety. Refining involves chemical solvents and deodorization that strips some beneficial phytonutrients.

Check supplement labels for terms like "cold pressed" or “extra virgin” to ensure you get high quality oil with the full spectrum of healthy fatty acids. Bottled borage oil supplements should be kept in the refrigerator after opening.

Comparison with Evening Primrose Oil

GLA Content in Borage Oil

Evening primrose oil and borage oil are both significant dietary sources of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an anti-inflammatory omega-6 fatty acid. However, borage oil contains significantly higher amounts of GLA.

Typical GLA content:

• Borage oil: 20-26%
• Evening primrose oil: 8-10%

This means borage oil provides more than twice the concentration of GLA per dose compared to evening primrose oil. Less borage oil needs to be consumed to obtain enough GLA for therapeutic effects.

Some studies directly comparing the two oils suggest borage oil may be more effective for treating chronic inflammation and eczema. Researchers believe its higher GLA content likely explains its superior effects.

Benefits of Evening Primrose Oil

While borage oil has higher GLA content, evening primrose oil has its own evidence-based benefits. Evening primrose oil may:

• Alleviate PMS and breast pain associated with PMS
• Reduce symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis
• Improve diabetic nerve damage
• Decrease bone loss in osteoporosis
• Potentially lower risk of heart disease

The GLA content provides anti-inflammatory action that drives these benefits. For individuals looking to supplement with GLA oils, choosing between borage and evening primrose depends on desired health impacts. Research overall supports borage oil more for skin conditions and evening primrose for PMS support.

Tolerability and Safety

Side Effects and Tolerability of Borage Oil

When taken appropriately, borage oil is generally well tolerated by most people. However, some potential side effects can occur:

• Stomach upset - Some reports of nausea, stomach pain, belching, and diarrhea, especially at higher doses. Taking with meals often minimizes gastrointestinal effects.
• Increased risk of bleeding - GLA may slow blood clotting. Those with bleeding disorders or taking blood thinners should use borage oil cautiously.
• Skin reactions - Topical borage oil rarely causes rashes or skin irritation. Discontinue use if this occurs.
• Liver toxicity - High doses may harm liver function. Do not exceed 1,500 mg daily without medical supervision.
• Medication interactions - Borage affects the body similarly to NSAIDs, so caution is warranted when combining the two.

For most people, borage oil is side effect free if dosage guidelines are followed and the supplement is taken under medical guidance. But those with underlying health conditions should be monitored closely for potential adverse effects.

Borage Oil for Children with Atopic Eczema

Several studies have found borage oil safe for treating eczema in children. In a 2018 pediatric trial, borage oil supplementation for 12 weeks caused no significant side effects compared to placebo. [4]

However, borage oil safety has not been extensively studied in children under age 12. Experts recommend cautious use under medical supervision in young kids, starting with low doses.

For infants and toddlers, topical borage oil may be preferred over oral supplementation to minimize systemic effects. Only use brands making safety claims for pediatric use.

As with any supplement, discuss use of borage oil in children thoroughly with a doctor. Follow given dosage instructions carefully. Discontinue use if any concerning symptoms develop. With appropriate precautions, borage oil can be considered for alleviating eczema inflammation in pediatric populations.

FAQ

Q: What is the recommended dosage of borage oil?

A: The generally recommended dosage is 300-600 mg daily of borage oil. This provides the equivalent of 60-180 mg of GLA. Higher doses around 1,000 mg can be taken under medical supervision, but may increase gastrointestinal side effects.

Q: How long does it take for borage oil to work?

A: Benefits are usually noticed after 4-8 weeks of consistent supplementation. Maximum effects often occur after 2 to 3 months of daily usage. For chronic conditions like eczema, ongoing borage oil supplementation is likely required.

Q: Can you take too much borage oil?

A: Excessive borage oil intake above 1,500 mg daily may harm liver function or increase bleeding risk. It's best to stay under 600 mg per day unless medically advised to take higher doses. Periodic breaks from borage oil are also recommended.

Q: Is borage oil better than fish oil?

A: Borage oil and fish oil have different active ingredients so they are not directly comparable. Borage oil provides anti-inflammatory omega-6 fatty acids, while fish oil provides omega-3s. The best choice depends on your specific health goals. Some people find combining the two beneficial.

Q: Can you take borage oil while pregnant?

A: There is not enough safety research to recommend borage oil supplementation during pregnancy. Pregnant women should exercise caution and only use borage oil under medical supervision due to potential bleeding and uterine stimulation effects.

Q: How do you take borage oil?

A: Borage oil is normally taken in capsule form. Swallow capsules with water and preferably with a meal to minimize stomach upset. The oil can also be used topically or incorporated into skin care products. Follow dosage directions on the product label.

Q: Are there any drug interactions with borage oil?

A: Borage oil may interact with blood thinners, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, cyclosporine, and medications processed by the CYP450 liver enzymes. Consult your doctor before using borage oil supplements if you take any prescription medications or have a medical condition.

Q: Can you use borage oil for face?

A: Yes, borage oil can be applied directly or added to moisturizers and serums to hydrate and soothe inflammatory skin conditions affecting the face like rosacea, dermatitis, acne, and sensitive skin. Use small amounts first to test for any irritation. Avoid getting borage oil directly in the eyes.