What’s Borage?

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An herb is a plant whose leaves, seeds, or flowers are used to flavor food or in medicine. Other uses of herbs include cosmetics, dyes and perfumes. The name comes from the Latin word herba, which means “green crops”. Borage, also called bugloss, is an herb, Borago officinalis, in the same family, Boraginaceae, as Virginia cowslip and Virginia bluebell. It is an annual that grows wild in the Mediterranean, particularly in Crete and Sicily, and is cultivated elsewhere.

History. Though less well known than other herbs, borage has been used as a herb and pot herb for centuries. There is evidence of Roman use, dating back to the early CE.

Description. The borage, which reaches a height of 60 to 90 cm, is notable for its star-shaped blue or purplish flowers. The “hairy” foliage is gray-green. The flowers and young leaves have a mild, cucumber-like flavor, and the plant is a favorite with bees.

Gardening. An avid reseeder, borage prefers a sunny site and well-drained soil. It spreads assiduously, so plant it in spots where this is a desired trait. Can be used as a border plant.

Food and other uses. Borage is often not available in US food markets, so if you want to use it, you may have to grow your own. Note, however, that some sources recommend that pregnant and lactating women refrain from eating borage, then consult a doctor for any health concerns. The flowers can be used sweetened to decorate or sprinkled on salads and the young leaves are used in salads, soup and pasta. The leaves can be cooked in bulk, like other vegetables, and served as a vegetable side dish or used as a pasta filling or crepe filling. As noted, the leaves are “hairy,” but the coating is said to disappear after cooking.

Borage seed oil is used in topical treatments for dry skin, for example for people with diabetes and eczema. Borage honey is also available.

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