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Omega-3 & fatsWeak evidence

Borage oil

Also known as: starflower oil, GLA

Borage oil is pressed from the seeds of borage (starflower) and is the richest common source of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an omega-6 fatty acid. It is used mainly for dry skin, eczema and joints.

What it is used for

  • dry skin and atopic eczema – weak evidence, mixed results
  • rheumatoid arthritis and joint stiffness – weak to moderate evidence from smaller studies
  • PMS and breast tenderness – weak evidence

Forms and how they differ

cold-pressed oil capsules

GLA content is usually about 20% – check the label

oil free of pyrrolizidine alkaloids

an important label claim, as seeds can contain these liver-toxic compounds

When to take it

With food; skin effects are judged after 8–12 weeks.

Pairs well with

Omega-3 (fish oil), vitamin E.

Do not combine / separate

Take care when combining with blood thinners and with medicines that lower the seizure threshold (e.g. some psychiatric drugs).

Watch out for

Not suitable in pregnancy or breastfeeding. With liver disease, epilepsy, bleeding disorders, before surgery or when taking medicines, consult your doctor.

Safety

Choose only oils declared free of pyrrolizidine alkaloids; do not exceed the label dose.

Practical tip

Borage oil has more GLA than evening primrose oil, so fewer capsules give the same dose.

Products containing Borage oil 1

Borage oil 1000 mgGLA · 1 000 mg / capsuleSkinInflammationWomen’s healthJoints
How to read the evidence rating
Strong evidenceModerate evidenceWeak evidenceNo evidence

Strong = several good human studies or official recommendations; moderate = promising but smaller studies; weak = few studies or mixed results; no evidence = claims not confirmed.

Combination check

Select the supplements you take and, if relevant, your medicines. We show what interferes, what needs a time gap and what to watch out for.

Check Borage oil with others

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Important notice

This information is educational and does not replace advice from a doctor or pharmacist. We do not give medicine dosages. Supplements are no substitute for a varied diet; if pregnant, breastfeeding, ill or on medication, consult a doctor first.