A cheerful blue-flowered herb native to the Mediterranean, Borago officinalis — Borage — has been celebrated for its spirit-lifting properties since ancient times. The Roman writer Pliny the Elder wrote that borage 'maketh a man merry and joyful,' and it was added to cups of wine in Roman and medieval times to encourage courage and drive away sadness. A famous adage — 'I, Borage, bring courage' — captures the herb's centuries-long reputation as a botanical of the heart and spirit.
Borage has two distinct faces in modern herbalism. As a seed oil, it is the richest known plant source of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), a fatty acid that profoundly supports skin health, hormonal balance, and a healthy inflammatory response — particularly in conditions like eczema and rheumatoid arthritis. As a leaf and flower tea, Borage is used as an adrenal tonic — one of the best-regarded herbs for supporting and restoring adrenal gland function after periods of prolonged stress, fatigue, or burnout. Its minerals — particularly potassium and calcium — and its anti-inflammatory flavonoids support the body's recovery from chronic stress. Borage leaf is also a diaphoretic (promotes sweating) and mild diuretic, used in traditional medicine to support fever management and detoxification. In Celtic tradition, warriors drank borage tea before battle to summon courage, and it remains a botanical associated with bravery, emotional strength, and heart-opening.
For an adrenal recovery and stress-resilience blend, pair Borage with our Calendula for complementary anti-inflammatory and skin-supportive properties, our Nettle Leaf as a deeply mineralizing nutritive tonic, and our Lemon Balm to add nervous system calming and lift the mood of the blend.
Borage leaf contains small amounts of pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs) — compounds that in large accumulated doses can affect liver health. Borage leaf tea should not be consumed daily in large amounts over prolonged periods. Borage seed oil (a separate product) does not contain PAs. Not recommended during pregnancy. Those with liver conditions should use with particular caution. As always, consult a qualified healthcare practitioner before use, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medications.
* Premier adrenal tonic — used to restore and support adrenal function after stress and burnout
* Anti-inflammatory properties support skin health and hormonal balance
* Rich in potassium and calcium for mineral replenishment during recovery
* Traditional diaphoretic used to support healthy fever response
* Celtic herb of courage and emotional strength — lifts mood and supports heart energy
* Supports a healthy inflammatory response and skin comfort
1. Measure 1 teaspoon of Borage leaf and flower per 8 oz of water.
2. Pour boiling water over the herb, cover, and steep for 10 minutes.
3. Strain and drink warm.
4. Drink 1–2 cups daily for adrenal and stress support. Do not use daily for prolonged periods of more than 4–6 weeks without a break.
5. The flavor is mild and slightly cucumber-like — pairs well with Lemon Balm and Calendula.
For an adrenal support blend, combine with equal parts Calendula, Nettle Leaf, and Lemon Balm. This blend can be brewed as a daily morning tonic during periods of recovery from stress or exhaustion.
