Borago officinalis, commonly known as borage or starflower, is one of a host of herbs with origins in the Mediterranean region.
It’s a member of the Boraginaceae family of plants, which includes forget-me-not and heliotrope.
Naturalized in the United States, it grows in a wild and weedy fashion, sporting its signature blue star blossoms as well as fuzzy leaves, stems, and drooping buds.
In addition to the botanical species, there are cultivated varieties available in both blue and white.
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In this article, I’ll cover how to cultivate borage, a versatile herb that may be grown as an ornamental, an ingredient for herbal and culinary use, or as a cover crop.
Note that its fuzzy texture may cause a skin reaction in sensitive people. If you are prone to allergies, wear gloves when you handle it.
Cultivation and HistoryAccording to experts at the Flower Essence Society, B. officinalis likely originated in Syria. Today it is naturalized throughout Europe and the United States.
There are two literary references from the 1500s to an herb believed to be borage: there is a forgetfulness-inducing herb in Homer’s Odyssey, and a mood elevator in Dioscorides’ De Materia Medica.
The leaves and flowers have long been used in the eastern Mediterranean region as potherbs and drink garnishes.
They also have a history of use in herbal remedies to address conditions ranging from respiratory issues to adrenal problems.
The leaves have an aroma reminiscent of cucumber, and a rather salty flavor. The flowers are sweet, like honey.
The seeds contain an oil prized for its high gamma linoleic
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