BORAGE

Borage is of the most favorite medical and traditional plant in Iran and Its flowers and leaves, as well as the oil from its seeds are used as medicine.

Borage (Borago officinalis) is an herb originating in Iran and some Mediterranean countries of West Asia but found almost all over the world. It grows to a height of 60–100 cm. It has blue, star-shaped flowers. The anti-inflammatory properties of borage are attributed to gamma linolenic acid (GLA) which is found in its seeds.

Borage is indicated in treatment of bronchitis and respiratory infections due to its anti-inflammatory effects. The flowers can be prepared in infusion to take advantage of their medicinal properties. In Iran, it is a common tradition to brew the flower and take it like tea in servings.

Borage flower and leaves are used for fever, cough, and depression.
Borage is also used for a hormone problem called adrenal insufficiency, for “blood purification,” to increase urine flow, to prevent inflammation of the lungs, as a sedative, and to promote sweating. Borage is also used to increase breast milk production and to treat bronchitis and colds.
Borage is applied to the skin for red, itchy rash on the scalp of infants (seborrheic dermatitis) and is also used in a dressing to soften the skin.