The Borage is an herb that grows mainly in southern Europe and northern Africa but also in non-cultivated land in temperate regions. Its botanical name is Borago officinalis, family of boragináceas. The plant has a hollow stem, thick and mucilaginous up to 70 cm high, much branched. Has many white hairs on the stem and leaves. The star-shaped flowers, and are blue and less white. As medical can use the entire plant, flowers and seeds less frequently.
chemical composition. has a high mucilage content neutral (30%), largely responsible for its activity. Other ingredients are tannins, salicylic acid (to 2.5%), vitamin C, organic acids, nitrates, pyrrolizidine alkaloids, allantoin and essential oil. It is also rich in minerals, especially potassium.
pharmacological properties.
- System Respiratory: for its mucilage content, borage is an excellent emollient, decongestant and expectorant.
- Digestive System: used borage juice as a remedy for intestinal parasites, and against the jaundice.
- Urinary System: borage has a weak diuretic effect. Cleansing properties. Besides the flowers are used as sweat, in fact, the word "borage" derives from the Arabic word Abou rach, which literally means "father of sweat."
- Dermatology exerts an astringent and anti-inflammatory on the skin.
Unwanted effects and contraindications. Plant low toxicity and well tolerated. not eat steadily and in large quantities because it contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids and nitrates. Not recommended for use during pregnancy.
administration and dosage forms.
-Infusion of flowers: one teaspoon per cup of hot water.
-Mother tincture: 30 drops, 3 times a day.
-Fluid extract: 0.5-3 grams.
, borage seed oil, pressed for use in cases of arthritis.
