Common Name: Borage
Scientific Name: Borago officinalis
Areas of the United States Found in Nature
Borage is often found in gardens and can naturalize in open areas, fields, and along roadsides across much of the United States, particularly in temperate regions. It prefers well-drained soils and full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
How to Identify It
Borage is an annual herb that grows up to 1-3 feet tall. It has a coarse, hairy stem and large, oval, fuzzy leaves that are covered with fine hairs. The plant is most easily recognized by its star-shaped, bright blue flowers that bloom in loose clusters. Occasionally, the flowers can be pink or white. Borage blooms from late spring through summer, attracting bees and other pollinators.
How and When to Harvest for the Highest Medicinal Value
Harvest Borage leaves when they are young and tender, before the plant flowers, as they are less hairy and more palatable. Flowers can be harvested at any time during bloom. To harvest, simply snip the leaves or flowers with scissors or a sharp knife. Harvest on a dry day after the morning dew has evaporated to reduce the risk of mold during drying.
How to Preserve the Herb for Future Use
Borage leaves are best used fresh, as drying them can make them too rough due to the hairs. If needed, Borage leaves can be frozen to retain some of their medicinal properties.
Freezing
Chop the leaves and place them in ice cube trays with a little water. Freeze, then transfer the cubes to a sealed container for later use.
Borage flowers can be dried by laying them out on a drying rack in a cool, shaded area with good air circulation. Once dry, store the flowers in an airtight container away from light and moisture.
Medicinal Uses
Borage is known for its anti-inflammatory, diuretic, and demulcent properties. It has been traditionally used to support adrenal function, reduce stress, and soothe respiratory issues. The leaves and flowers are often used in teas, salads, and garnishes.
Tea
Steep 1-2 teaspoons of fresh Borage leaves or flowers in hot water for 10-15 minutes. The tea can help reduce fever, relieve stress, and act as a mild diuretic.
Infused Oil
Infuse fresh Borage flowers in a carrier oil like olive or sunflower oil. This oil can be used topically to soothe skin irritations, rashes, and inflammation.
Culinary Uses
Borage leaves and flowers are edible and can be used to add a cucumber-like flavor to salads, soups, and beverages. The flowers make a beautiful garnish and are often used in teas and desserts.
Note: Borage should be used in moderation due to the presence of pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which can be harmful in large quantities or with prolonged use.
How to Propagate for Annual Use in Your Garden
Borage is easily propagated by seed.
From Seed
Sow Borage seeds directly in the garden in early spring after the last frost, or in late summer for a fall harvest. The seeds should be sown about 1/4 inch deep and spaced about 12 inches apart. Borage prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Keep the soil moist until germination, which usually occurs within 7-14 days.
Self-Seeding
Borage readily self-seeds, often coming back year after year if allowed to set seed. Thin seedlings if necessary to prevent overcrowding.
How to Over-Winter the Plant
Borage is typically grown as an annual, but in mild climates, it can sometimes survive the winter.
Cut Back
After the plant has finished blooming, cut it back to about 6 inches above the ground. This can encourage new growth if the conditions are still favorable.
Mulch
Apply a light layer of mulch around the base of the plant in late fall to help protect the roots from frost, especially in cooler regions where it may survive.
Watering
Reduce watering during the winter months, as Borage is quite drought-tolerant once established. Ensure the soil remains well-draining to prevent root rot.
In the spring, remove any mulch to allow new seedlings to emerge. Borage will often reseed itself, providing new plants for the next growing season.
