Borage Oil 180ct

Studies have indicated that Gamma-linolenic acid or GLA found in Borage Oil, promotes healthy prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) production, which helps to support healthy joint function. Researchers at the University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, reported that GLA helps support healthy cytokine activity, a mechanism that may be linked to both immune system support and joint health.1,2 A randomized, double blind, placebo-controlled trial reported statistically significant support for joint health in subjects supplementing with GLA from borage seed oil.3 PGE1 has also been associated with supporting and soothing the skin when used topically
or taken orally.4‡

Benefits & Features

Contains 20% GLA; supports joint and skin health‡ April 2021

Borage oil benefits and uses

Borage seed oil is thought to hold promise for the following uses:

• inflammation
• acne
• breast pain
• cardiovascular disease
• eczema
• menopause
• rosacea
• Joint Pain including arthritis, and autoimmune rheumatoid arthritis (RA)

There is some anecdotal information — but no scientific research — about using borage oil for other conditions, including:

• adrenal fatigue
• breast milk production
• diabetes
• epilepsy
• premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
• scleroderma
• Sjogren’s disease

Gamma linolenic acid

As mentioned, borage oil has a high GLA content. GLA is a type of fatty acid that is also found in other seeds and nuts, as well as vegetable oils. Your body converts GLA to prostaglandin E1 (PGE1).

This substance acts like a hormone in your body, helping reduce inflammation tied to skin conditions and cardiovascular concerns. Borage oil has gained a lot of attention because it’s said to have the highest GLA content compared with other seed oils.

Though more research needs to be done, studies on borage oil for its GLA content have backed up some of the anecdotal evidence.

Anti-inflammatory

A 2014 study comparing borage oil, fish oil, and the combination of both found that taking 1.8 grams of borage oil or 2.1 grams of fish oil per day (or both) helped reduce rheumatoid arthritis(RA) symptoms in 74 participants who were observed for 18 months.

The study authors conclude that these oils may be able to replace nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for some people, which would avoid some of the side effects of continuously taking NSAIDs. They also suggest that people with RA may be able to reduce the amount of disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs they’re taking.

However, the researchers do note one limitation of their research: By the end of the study, about 45% of participants had dropped out. The remaining participants were mostly male and African American.

The researchers suggest that this result reflects the lack of access to healthcare faced by People of Color in the United States, because people who can’t purchase health insurance or get access to conventional medicine may be more likely to remain in a study that provides a form of treatment.

Skin barrier

Research on borage oil’s effects on eczema is mixed.

A 2018 review of studies using borage oil topically and other GLA-containing plant oils found that borage oil has both antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that can be beneficial for people with atopic dermatitis.

In a separate 2013 review of the effect of borage oil taken by mouth, researchers concluded that it showed no more benefits for people with eczema than placebos, based on an analysis of 19 related studies.

This indicates that clinical research shows more promise with topical borage oil for skin conditions, compared with oral versions.

Other possible uses

Other possible uses of borage oil may be for:

• adrenal gland problems
• arthritis
• gingivitis
• heart conditions
• menopause
• PMS symptoms

BENEFITS
Promotes healthy cytokine activity and joint function‡
Supports skin appearance‡

FEATURES
Contains 20% gamma-linolenic acid, the highest GLA content of any plant source
Cold-pressed solvent-free oil
Made with high-quality ingredients backed by verifiable science

SUGGESTED USE
As a dietary supplement, take 1 capsule, 1-4 times daily, with or between meals.
STORAGE
Store in a cool, dry place.

WARNING
If you are pregnant or lactating, have any health condition or are taking any medication, consult your health professional before use.

SOURCE
Borage oil is extracted from the seeds of Borago Officinalis. It is cold-pressed and produced without the use of solvents. Vitamin E (mixed tocopherols) is derived from highly purified soybean oil.

REFERENCES
Leventhal LJ, et. al. Ann Intern Med. 1993 Nov 1;119(9):867-73.
Furse RK, et. al. J Clin Immunol. 2002;22:83-91.
Zurier RB, et. al. Arthritis Rheum. 1996
Nov;39(11):1808-17.
De Spirt S, et. al. Br J Nutr. 2009 Feb;101(3):440-5.