The herb Borago officinalis, commonly known as borage or starflower, is an annual plant native to the Mediterranean region with a long history of traditional use. Borage tea is an herbal infusion created by steeping the leaves and flowers of this plant in hot water. Characterized by its bright blue, star-shaped flowers and hairy leaves, the plant’s aerial parts are used for the tea, focusing on water-soluble compounds, unlike borage seed oil used in supplements.
The Primary Health Claims of Borage Tea
The primary interest in borage tea stems from its historical use in addressing inflammation and respiratory issues. Traditional practices often turned to borage for conditions involving swelling or discomfort, a use linked to the plant’s fatty acid content. The leaves contain trace amounts of Gamma-Linolenic Acid (GLA), an omega-6 fatty acid that serves as a precursor to anti-inflammatory compounds. This GLA helps regulate inflammation by modulating the body’s response to stress signals. Furthermore, components of borage may help suppress the production of pro-inflammatory proteins such as interleukin (IL) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF). These mechanisms are often cited as the basis for the herb’s traditional use in soothing joint discomfort, such as that associated with rheumatoid arthritis.
For respiratory support, borage tea is traditionally valued for its mucilage content, a gelatinous substance found in the leaves and stems. When consumed, this mucilage acts as a demulcent, meaning it can coat and soothe irritated mucous membranes in the throat and lungs. This mechanical action is why borage was historically employed to alleviate symptoms of coughs, mild bronchitis, and other upper respiratory tract irritations. A small pilot study supports this traditional use, suggesting that a borage leaf infusion can help ease cough and mucus production in cases of mild bronchitis.
Borage has also been traditionally used as a mild diuretic, assisting the body in the temporary removal of excess fluid. This effect is attributed to certain compounds within the plant structure. By promoting urine flow, it was believed to help cleanse the system and support kidney function.
Beyond internal consumption, borage was also applied topically in traditional remedies to soothe skin irritations and promote healing. The plant’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties are thought to contribute to this effect, helping to reduce redness. Note that the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved borage tea as a treatment for any medical condition, and most research focuses on concentrated borage seed oil, not the tea infusion itself.
Preparation and Consumption Guidelines
Preparing borage tea involves a simple infusion process using either the fresh or dried leaves and flowers of the plant. While the flowers offer a milder flavor, the leaves contain a higher concentration of beneficial compounds, including mucilage. For a standard cup of hot tea, use approximately one tablespoon of dried borage material or about a quarter cup of fresh leaves and flowers.
The standard method is a hot infusion, where the borage material is placed in a mug or teapot. Water should be brought to a full boil and then poured directly over the herb. Allow the tea to steep for a minimum of ten to fifteen minutes to ensure adequate extraction of the compounds, especially the mucilage. If using fresh leaves, a longer duration may be needed to draw out the flavor and benefits.
After the steeping time is complete, the liquid should be strained to remove the plant material before drinking. The resulting tea has a mild, often described as cucumber-like or slightly melon-like, flavor. While it is often enjoyed plain, honey or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can be added to taste.
For a cold infusion, the borage material is steeped in cold water for a much longer period, typically around six hours. This method is often preferred for its refreshing qualities and is said to better preserve the subtle cucumber notes of the fresh plant material. Generally, consuming one to two cups of the tea per day is a common guideline for occasional use.
Critical Safety Information and Contraindications
The most serious consideration regarding borage tea consumption is the presence of potentially harmful compounds known as Pyrrolizidine Alkaloids (PAs). PAs are natural toxins found in the leaves and flowers used to make the tea. These alkaloids are a major health concern because they can be toxic to the liver, a condition known as hepatotoxicity.
Regular or high-dose consumption of borage tea may expose the consumer to PAs that are suspected of causing genetic damage and have been shown to be carcinogenic in animal studies. This risk is particularly high for young children and those with pre-existing liver conditions, as the liver is responsible for metabolizing these compounds. Due to this risk, certain food safety authorities have advised against the consumption of borage infusions.
Individuals with any known liver disease should strictly avoid borage tea, as the PAs can exacerbate their condition. Furthermore, the consumption of borage tea is strongly discouraged during both pregnancy and breastfeeding. The PAs found in the plant can potentially cause birth defects and are known to pass into breast milk, posing a risk to the nursing infant.
Another important contraindication involves the potential for drug interactions, particularly with blood-thinning medications. The Gamma-Linolenic Acid (GLA) in borage can have an antiplatelet effect, which may prolong bleeding time and increase the risk of bruising or hemorrhage when combined with prescription blood thinners. It is advisable to discontinue the use of borage tea at least two weeks prior to any scheduled surgical procedure.