Is Borage (Borago officinalis) Bad For Your Liver?

Borage, Borago officinalis, is a plant known for its culinary uses and medicinal properties. It has been traditionally used in various cultures for its purported benefits, ranging from its anti-inflammatory effects to its potential as a treatment for skin disorders and respiratory conditions.

However, alongside its benefits, concerns have been raised about the safety of borage, particularly its impact on liver health.

This article explores the scientific evidence surrounding borage and its potential effects on the liver.

Understanding Borage: Botanical Profile and Traditional Uses

Borage, scientifically known as Borago officinalis, is an annual herb native to the Mediterranean region.

It belongs to the Boraginaceae family and is characterized by its bright blue, star-shaped flowers and hairy leaves.

Historically, borage has been used as a culinary herb and medicinal plant due to its rich content of bioactive compounds.

Culinary Uses

In culinary traditions, borage leaves and flowers are often garnished in salads, soups, and beverages.

They have a cucumber-like flavor, which adds a refreshing taste to dishes.

Medicinal Uses

Borage has a long history of use in traditional medicine:

• Anti-inflammatory Properties: It has been traditionally used to alleviate inflammation, particularly in conditions like arthritis.

• Skin Benefits: Borage oil is popular in skincare for its moisturizing and soothing effects, attributed to its high gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) content.

• Respiratory Support: Some traditional practices include using borage preparations to aid respiratory health.

The Active Compounds in Borage

Borage contains several bioactive compounds that contribute to its medicinal properties:

• Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA): A type of omega-6 fatty acid known for its anti-inflammatory effects.

• Flavonoids: Antioxidant compounds that help combat oxidative stress.

• Pyrrolizidine Alkaloids (PAs): Compounds that are potentially toxic to the liver.

Potential Liver Risks Associated with Borage

While borage offers several health benefits, concerns about its impact on liver health primarily stem from the presence of pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs).

PAs are natural toxins found in various plants, including borage, and are known to cause liver damage when ingested in significant amounts over time.

Mechanism of Toxicity

• Metabolism in the Liver: PAs are metabolized in the liver, where they can cause damage to hepatocytes (liver cells) and impair liver function.

• Chronic Effects: Long-term exposure to PAs can lead to conditions such as veno-occlusive disease (VOD), liver fibrosis, and in severe cases, liver cancer.

Scientific Studies and Findings

Borage consumption has been associated with potential liver risks, particularly due to its content of unsaturated pyrrolizidine alkaloids known to cause hepatotoxic effects (Miller, 1998).

Pasalar et al. (2020) reported cases of hepatotoxicity resulting in hepatic failure and hospital admission due to inappropriate consumption of borage.

Furthermore, Ghahremanitamadon et al. (2014) highlighted that borage may lead to liver toxicity. These findings suggest that caution should be exercised when considering the consumption of borage, as it may have detrimental effects on liver health.

Safety Considerations and Regulations

Due to concerns over pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs) toxicity, regulatory authorities and health organizations have taken steps to mitigate risks associated with borage consumption:

Regulation of Supplements

• PA Content Limits: Supplements containing borage oil are often regulated to ensure they contain minimal levels of PAs or are PA-free.

• Quality Control: Reputable manufacturers adhere to stringent quality control measures to minimize PA contamination in borage products.

Usage Guidelines

• Moderation: Occasional culinary use of borage leaves and flowers is generally considered safe for healthy individuals.

• Consultation with Healthcare Providers: Individuals with liver conditions or those taking medications should consult healthcare providers before using borage supplements.Subscribe now

Conclusion: Balancing Benefits and Risks

Borage (Borago officinalis) offers a range of potential health benefits, from its anti-inflammatory properties to its use in skincare and respiratory health.

However, the presence of pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs) raises legitimate concerns about its impact on liver health.

While occasional culinary use of borage is unlikely to pose significant risks for healthy individuals, caution should be exercised when considering borage supplements, especially for vulnerable populations or those with pre-existing liver conditions.

Consulting healthcare providers and opting for certified products can help mitigate potential risks associated with borage consumption.

Further research is needed to better understand the long-term effects of borage on liver health and to refine safety guidelines accordingly.

In conclusion, while borage can be a beneficial addition to culinary and medicinal practices, awareness of its potential liver risks underscores the importance of informed consumption and regulatory oversight.