History of borage

Cooked as a vegetable, eaten as a salad, and mixed with wine, the Borage plant has a long history of being a commonly ingested plant. It is popularly known for being one of the richest sources of Gamma-Linolenic Acid.

It is only recently that Borage seeds Oil started appearing in skincare products, but in ancient times Borage was referred to as beebread because bees loved the blue star-shaped flower. The plant was also called starflower, as a result of its blue star-shaped appearance. Throughout history, Borage has been referred to as a spirit lifter. The Greek physician Dioscorides claimed, "Borage can cheer the heart and lift depressed spirits."

Primarily cultivated in the Northern hemisphere, the Borage plant is native to the Eastern Mediterranean region. It is now grown in various parts of Europe, including Great Britain and parts of North America. In many areas of Europe, the leaves are prepared as a vegetable. Eating the various parts of this plant provided the Essential Fatty Acids needed and functioned as a tonic to those suffering from depression. In the Middle Ages, Borage leaves were commonly brewed into a medicinal tea since they were believed to cure fevers, coughs, and even depression.

The main chemical constituents of Borage Carrier Oil

Oleic Acid, Phytosterol, Linoleic Acid, Gamma Linolenic Acid, and Tocopherols.

Extracting and refining borage carrier oil

The Borage Carrier Oil extraction process begins with the careful selection of quality raw seeds of Borago officinalis.

Cold pressing is a chemical-free process that involves Borage seeds being placed inside a horizontal press with a rotating screw. The screw brings the seeds to a barrel-shaped compartment and compresses the seeds until the oil squeezes out. This is the first step to creating Borage Carrier Oil.

The next step in the process is called filtration. Like its name, this step filters the oil with the help of a mesh screen that collects the excess waste produced by Borage seeds and presents a cleaner, purer oil that is higher in natural colors and scents. There are several filtration methods. In fact, further refining steps are involved to produce a more versatile oil.

Once the oil has gone through the extraction process the final pale yellow to golden yellow Borage Carrier Oil is ready to be packaged and sold.

Cold-pressed oils like Borage Carrier Oil are recommended to be kept in a cool, dark place to maintain the oil's freshness and achieve maximum shelf life.

Uses of borage carrier oil

The uses of Borage Carrier Oil are ample, ranging from medicinal to cosmetic. It is used in many forms including face oils, face serums, massage oils, and even body balms.

For a soothing body balm formulation melt 1 tsp Lanolin, 1 tbsp Borage Carrier Oil, 2 tbsp Coconut Carrier Oil, and 1/2 – 1 tbsp Grated Beeswax in a double boiler. Once the mixture has been boiled, pour the blend into an airtight container, and let it cool down.

Borage Carrier Oil is commonly used in manufacturing skin care products and by massage therapists. The oil is beneficial in hydrating the skin and acts as an anti-aging oil that repairs and rehydrates the skin. Massage therapists use the oil to reduce stress, relax the body and mind, and soothe tense muscles.

When a small amount (10% or less) of Borage Carrier Oil is added to other carrier oils, Borage Oil supports and enhances the potential of the skincare product it's blended with.

Make a relaxing massage oil by mixing 1 tbsp Jojoba Carrier Oil, 1 tbsp Sweet Almond Carrier Oil, ½ tbsp Olive Carrier Oil, and ½ tbsp Borage Carrier Oil.

Ease skin conditions such as acne, dermatitis, Psoriasis, and eczema by using Borage Carrier Oils in your skincare routine.