Starflower Oil
Starflower is also known as borage, and it grows throughout Europe and the UK. The leaves and flowers are edible, but the crops are mainly grown for the seeds, which are a natural source of omega-6 oil and gamma-linolenic acid (GLA).
Starflower oil may help
- Reduce Inflammation
- Improve skin health
- Alleviate the symptoms of depression
- Support lung function
What are the benefits?
1) Reducing Inflammation
The properties of Starflower oil could be particularly beneficial for individuals who suffer from conditions like rheumatoid arthritis because of its anti-inflammatory properties.
An 18-month study of 150 people showed that gamma-linoleic acid reduced arthritis symptoms. (1)
2) Skin health
Starflower Oil is one of the richest sources of gamma-linoleic acid and is used by thousands of people every day, especially women. The oil may help support hormonal balance and healthy skin.
3) Reduces symptoms of depression
Starflower extract contains flavonoids which may benefit individuals with depression. A study found that individuals with depression who took starflower extract experienced reduced symptoms. (2)
4) May support lung function
According to WebMD, there is evidence to suggest that taking starflower seed oil by mouth with eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), could improve lung function. Starflower seed oil reduced the number of days spent in the intensive care unit (ICU) and the length of time patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) used a breathing machine. (3)
Starflower oil works well with
- Vitamin E for skin problems, including acne and eczema.
- Agnus castus to balance hormones to reduce PMS and alleviate painful and heavy periods
- Multivitamins to increase the absorption of essential fatty acids
- Vitamin B6 to help regulate hormonal activity and psychological function
Some things to consider
People with epilepsy should not take starflower oil.
Resources
- https://www.hindawi.com/journals/ecam/2014/857456/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16309809
- https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-596/borage
