The Original Witch Store

Also known as starflower and Borage Officinalis, Borage originates in Syria, and has long since been naturalized in the Mediterranean, Asia Minor, Europe, North Africa, and South America. Often growing blue flowers, its petals can also take on the white and pink colors, and form the shape of a perfect five pointed star. Throughout history, the leaves however are what have stolen the attention from the beautiful flowers. They have been used in salads and as garnish extensively through Europe, and during the medieval period were sometimes used with wine in treating melancholy. Today they can still be found throughout Germany and parts of Spain and Poland as a vegetable. Borage Leaf has also been seen as a valued remedy for symptoms of PMS and Menopause, particularly when dealing with hot flashes. The leaves can also be used to make a calming tea, and are often used in Iran to make a tea that can sooth nerves and troubled spirits. Holistically it has been used as well for the treatment of arthritis, eczema, seborhic dermatitis (scaly, crusty scalp), and in some cases chest congestion (in tea form). While it has long been seen as a potent aid, some modern study has also shown that continued, persistent use of the leaf can contribute to liver issues, and that it should not be used if you are breastfeeding or pregnant. This is a 1 lb packet of cut Borage Leaf.