Anyone who suffers from skin conditions likeeczemaandacneknows the discomfort and embarrassment they can cause.
After all, our skin is front and center for the world to see.
Plus, what to look for in a supplement.
Using borage medicinally isn’t a new conceptnot by a long shot.
This quote sums up the primary use of borage in ancient medicine.
Back in the day, it was used totreat depressionand melancholy and was believed to relieve bothgrief and sadness.
In fact, the plant’s name even reflects this.
The wordborageis thought to be derived from theCeltic wordborrach,which means “a person of courage.”
It’s particularly beneficial for people with aggravated, inflamed skin.
Will Cole, D.C. ## What is gamma-linolenic acid (GLA)?
It may soothe eczema symptoms.
It’s most common among children but can affect people of any age.
Bottom line: For eczema, go with a topical borage oil over a supplement.
It may ease rheumatoid arthritis symptoms.
It may help reverse gum disease.
One of the most common tests for gum disease is measuring probing depth.
Basically, think of each of your teeth as sitting in a pocket inside your gums.
The deeper the pocket, the worse shape your gums are in.
It may help ease symptoms of PMS and menopause.
However, no studies have specifically looked into borage oil’s effect on these.
It may help with weight loss maintenance.
Borage oil has been shown to be effective at helping people maintain significant weight loss.
It may help manage diabetes symptoms.
It has cancer-fighting properties, at least in animals.
Borage oil has been studied as a potential treatment for cancer.
This effect hasn’t been replicated in humans, but it’s promising nonetheless.
What throw in of borage oil should you take?
That’s what Dr. Brighten typically suggests to her patients.
“It’s great for dry, sensitive, inflamed skin,” says Dr. Brighten.
As with capsules, this should always be cold-pressed.
(These body oils are also great for sensitive skin.)
What are the side effects of borage oil?
But these aren’t common.
To be safe, always talk to your doctor if you’re thinking about trying a new supplement.
