Borago

Borago officinalis, commonly known as borage or starflower, is an annual herb in the family Boraginaceae. Native to the Mediterranean region, it is widely cultivated for culinary uses, ornamental value, and for seed oil used in cosmetics and dietary supplements.

The plant typically grows to about 60–90 cm tall, with hairy, oval to lanceolate leaves and, in summer, panicles of blue, star-shaped flowers with five petals. Flowers may occasionally be white or pink-tinged and are attractive to pollinators, especially bees. Borage favors sunny, well-drained soils and is known for its prolific self-seeding.

Cultivation and habitat: It is commonly grown as an annual in temperate regions and is relatively easy to establish from seed. It tolerates poor soils and neglect but performs best in full sun and with regular moisture during the growing season.

Uses: Leaves and young stems have a cucumber-like flavor and are eaten in salads or cooked dishes. Flowers are used as edible decorative garnish and in beverages or desserts. Seeds yield oil used in culinary, cosmetic, and nutraceutical applications; borage oil is rich in essential fatty acids, notably linoleic acid and gamma-linolenic acid (GLA).

Safety and regulation: The plant contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids in some tissues; prolonged herbal use may pose risks, and products derived from borage should be sourced from reputable suppliers. Borage seed oil products are often processed to reduce alkaloids, but individuals who are pregnant or breastfeeding should consult a healthcare professional before use.

Taxonomy and nomenclature: Borago officinalis L. is the scientific designation, with common names including borage and starflower.