What is the recommended dosage for Borage Oil?

General: 500-1,000 mg/day; Skin Health: 1,000-2,000 mg/day (providing 200-500 mg GLA)

What are the side effects of Borage Oil?

Potential side effects include: Mild gastrointestinal discomfort, Soft stools, Possible hepatotoxicity with PA-containing preparations (use PA-free only).

What is borage oil and how may it support skin health?

Borage oil contains the highest concentration of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) among botanical oils at approximately 20–24%, compared to 8–10% in evening primrose oil. GLA may reduce skin inflammation and support barrier function. Some clinical studies show modest benefits for atopic dermatitis and skin hydration.

What dosage of borage oil has been studied for skin conditions?

Clinical trials have used 1–3 grams of borage oil per day, providing 240–720 mg of GLA. Due to higher GLA content, lower volumes are needed compared to evening primrose oil. Studies lasted 4–24 weeks. The Henz et al. atopic dermatitis study used 920 mg GLA daily from borage oil.

What are the potential side effects of borage oil?

Borage oil may contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs), which are hepatotoxic and carcinogenic. Only PA-free (certified) borage oil products should be used. Common side effects include digestive upset, bloating, and headache. Borage oil may increase bleeding risk and interact with anticoagulants. Avoid during pregnancy.

Borage Oil

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Also known as: Borage Seed Oil, Borago officinalis Oil, Starflower Oil

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About

Borage oil is the richest botanical source of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA, 20-26%), containing approximately 2x more GLA than evening primrose oil. Some RCTs showed improved skin barrier function and reduced TEWL in atopic dermatitis. Cochrane review findings are mixed for GLA oils overall.

How It Works

Richest botanical source of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA, 20-26%); metabolized to DGLA and anti-inflammatory prostaglandin E1; supports skin barrier lipid integrity and ceramide production; may modulate T-cell responses in atopic skin.

Evidence For Conditions

Condition	Grade	Studies	Participants
Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)	C	8	500	View →

Side Effects

Mild gastrointestinal discomfort
Soft stools
Possible hepatotoxicity with PA-containing preparations (use PA-free only)

Drug & Supplement Interactions

Anticoagulants (may have antiplatelet effects)
Anticonvulsants (theoretical seizure threshold concern)
Hepatotoxic medications (PA content concern — use PA-free)

Always inform your healthcare provider about all supplements you take.

Related Ingredients

Ceramides Evening Primrose Oil Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Quick Facts

Dosage: General: 500-1,000 mg/day; Skin_Health: 1,000-2,000 mg/day (providing 200-500 mg GLA)
Forms: softgel capsule liquid
Natural Sources: Borage seeds (Borago officinalis)
Upper Limit: Not established; generally well-tolerated
Best Time: With meals

Evidence Summary

Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis) C

FDA Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The products and information on this website are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The evidence grades presented are based on our analysis of published peer-reviewed research and do not constitute medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.