BORAGE

Borago officinalis

Once highly revered as a magical herb and well loved for its powers to 'gladden the heart', this beautiful herb with its ethereal starry blue flowers has all but disappeared - not just from our medical repertoire, but even from the kitchen. It is well worth resurrecting its therapeutic qualities from oblivion.

Traditional
Borage is associated with courage and joy - perhaps because of its ability to strengthen and restore the adrenal glands, which, when confronting a regular fast-lane life style, are easily overtaxed. Fighting disease or carrying emotional burdens also wears them out. Anyone who is burning the candle at both ends and suffer from 'burn out' and similar stress related symptoms, such as nervous exhaustion and anxiety, melancholy or depression, are well advised to make use of Borage. Borage also acts cleansing on the kidneys and assists the elimination of uric acids. It is blood cleansing and soothing for pulmonary conditions, particularly for dry coughs. Externally it is cooling and can be used to soothe inflammatory skin conditions, wounds and burns.

Magical
Borage is a protective herb that safeguards against doings of evil witches. It promotes joy, peace and happiness and can dispels the clouds of doom and gloom. Furthermore, it helps gain confidence in intimidating situations. It cools anger and aggravation.

Synonyms
Burrage, Starflower.

Cautions
Not all herbs are suitable in pregnancy, breastfeeding or for young children, or if you are unwell, or taking any medication. If in doubt, please ask a medical herbalist or healthcare practitioner.