Have you ever heard of the borage plant? Also known as starflower, borage is a hardy annual herb native to the Mediterranean, now growing worldwide. Its striking blue, star-shaped flowers and fuzzy, cucumber-scented leaves make it a must-have for any garden.
But borage is more than just a beautiful addition – it’s a powerhouse for both your garden and health. From boosting pollination to improving soil quality, this plant deserves a spot in your garden.
#1. Nutritional Value
Borage leaves and flowers are rich in vitamins A and C, which are crucial for maintaining good vision, a strong immune system, and healthy skin. Plus, they contain minerals like calcium, iron, and potassium, which are vital for bone health, oxygen transport, and muscle function.
But that’s not all! Borage seeds are a fantastic source of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), a type of omega-6 fatty acid. GLA is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and can help with conditions like arthritis and eczema.
#2. Herbal Remedy
If you struggle with PMS, borage might be your new best friend. The GLA in borage oil can convert to prostaglandin E1, which helps ease breast tenderness and mood swings.
Additionally, borage is known for its potential to promote heart health. GLA may help regulate blood pressure and cholesterol levels, making it a heart-friendly herb.
While borage is fantastic, it does contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which can be toxic to the liver. So, you should opt for purified, PA-free borage oil supplements and consult with a healthcare provider before diving in.
#3. Skin Health
A study has showed that GLA helps to soothe skin irritations, reduce inflammation, and even improve the overall texture of your skin.
I’ve personally found that using borage oil can make a world of difference. You can apply it directly to your skin or mix it into your favorite moisturizer. And if you’re into DIY skincare, you can even add borage oil to homemade serums and facial oils.
Specially, drinking borage tea can also help hydrate your skin from the inside out. Just steep some borage leaves in hot water, let it cool, and you’ve got yourself a refreshing toner.
#4. Pollinator Attraction
Borage are packed with nectar, making them irresistible to bees and butterflies. Moreover, bumblebees, native bees, and even hoverflies can’t resist its charm. I’ve also seen hummingbirds darting around borage plants, sipping nectar like it’s the best thing ever.
#5. Soil Improvement
Borage has these deep roots that reach down into the subsoil and pull up nutrients that other plants can’t access. When the leaves and stems of borage decompose, they release all those goodies back into the topsoil, making it richer and more fertile.
#6. Edible Flowers
Did you know that borage has edible flowers that can add a splash of color and a mild cucumber-like flavor to your dishes? They can even be frozen in ice cubes to give your drinks a refreshing twist.
One of my favorite ways to use borage flowers is to candy them. It’s super easy and makes for a beautiful, sweet decoration on cakes and pastries. You just dip the flowers in egg white, sprinkle with sugar, and let them dry.
#7. Companion Planting
This annual herb not only looks pretty but it also helps tomatoes and strawberries thrive because it helps keep pests like cabbage worms at bay.
According to Louise Riotte, author of Carrots Love Tomatoes, borage is an excellent provider of potassium, calcium, and other natural minerals that benefit plants.
I’ve also noticed that borage is a great companion for the squash family. It seems to increase pollination rates for crops like cucumbers, pumpkins, and zucchini.
#8. Aesthetic Appeal
Imagine stepping into your garden and being greeted by a sea of star-shaped, sky-blue flowers. These blossoms are not only stunning but also unique, making your garden stand out from the rest.
Back in Roman times, borage was associated with courage and bravery. So, when you plant borage, you’re not just adding a beautiful flower to your garden; you’re also planting a piece of history and a symbol of strength.
