Indications
Borago officinalis is borage, a herb whose leaves and flowers are used in Unani medicine under the name Gaozaban (the name Gaozaban is also used for a related plant). Its preparations, such as distilled water (arq) or syrup, are traditionally used as a calming tonic for the heart and mind, for mild anxiety, palpitations due to nervousness, low mood, and for coughs and sore throat. Scientific evidence for these uses is limited.
How It Works
Borage leaves and flowers contain mucilage (a soothing gel like substance that coats the throat), tannins and minerals. In Unani theory it is described as strengthening and calming the heart and brain. Borage seed oil, a different product, is rich in gamma linolenic acid. The leaves and flowers also contain small amounts of pyrrolizidine alkaloids, natural substances that can damage the liver if taken in large amounts or for a long time.
Dosage and Administration
Take by mouth as directed on the label or by a registered Unani practitioner. Do not exceed the stated dose, and do not use it continuously for more than a few weeks without advice. Not for young children unless a practitioner advises it.
Interactions
- Medicines that affect the liver (such as Paracetamol in high doses, Isoniazid, Rifampicin or Carbamazepine) may increase the risk of liver harm from pyrrolizidine alkaloids.
- It may add to the effect of sedatives and sleeping tablets.
- Borage oil may increase bleeding risk with Warfarin, Aspirin or Clopidogrel, and may lower the seizure threshold with Phenothiazine antipsychotics.
Contraindications
Do not use if you have liver disease, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or are allergic to borage. Avoid in people with epilepsy or bleeding disorders unless a doctor advises it. Not for young children.
Side Effects
Usually well tolerated in short courses. Possible effects include mild stomach upset, bloating and constipation. With long term or high dose use, liver damage is possible.
Get urgent medical help if you notice yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, pale stools, pain or swelling in the upper right abdomen, unusual tiredness, or signs of an allergic reaction such as swelling of the face or difficulty breathing.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Do not use during pregnancy: pyrrolizidine alkaloids may harm the unborn baby’s liver, and borage oil may stimulate the womb. Do not use while breastfeeding, as these alkaloids can pass into breast milk.
Precautions and Warnings
- Use only short term and at the labelled dose.
- Palpitations, chest pain or breathlessness need a medical check up; do not rely on a herbal tonic for heart symptoms.
- See a doctor if anxiety or low mood is severe or lasts more than 2 weeks.
- Choose products from reliable manufacturers.
Overdose
Large amounts may cause stomach upset and, over time, liver damage. Get medical help if a large amount has been taken, especially by a child.
Therapeutic Class
Unani herbal preparation (cardiac and nervine tonic).
Storage
Store below 30°C in a cool, dry place, away from light, with the cap tightly closed and out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.