BORAGE HERB HELPS

BORAGE HERB HELPS

This strapping plant, with bristly and fleshy stems and leaves, sports surprisingly exotic, luminous blue flowers. These are traditionally used in drinks to raise the spirits. They make an attractive garnish to many dishes, especially ice cream and other cold summer desserts. Traditionally associated with courage, borage improves the production of adrenaline and is therefore like licorice, useful during stressful times or after steroid, medication.

This plant is very nutritious, containing calcium potassium and traces of gamma linoleic acid. It also helps in the absorption of iron. Oil from the seeds is a good alternative to evening primrose oil in treating skin disease or rheumatism. It is commercially available in capsules and is sometimes called startflower oil.

In addition to bringing “ courage and good heart” borage increases milk production in nursing mothers and is a useful herb to take during fevers, infections and convalescence.

Parts to be used- leaves, flowers and seeds. The leaves being so fleshy, need to be dried quickly and are best heated very gently in a cool oven until crisp.

Dose – 1 teaspoon dried. 2 teaspoon fresh to a cup of boiling water.