Click on a letter to see pictures and individual herb information with folklore usages.

A - B - C - D - E - F - G - H - I-K - L - M - N-O - P - Q-R - S - T - U-V - W-Y

BORAGE   (BORAGO OFFICINALIS)
 

Family: Boraginaceae

---Synonym---Burrage.
---Parts Used---Leaves and flowers.
 

Borage contains potassium and calcium, combined with mineral acids. The fresh juice affords 30 per cent, the dried herb 3 per cent of nitrate of potash. The stems and leaves supply much saline mucilage, which when boiled and cooked likewise deposits nitre and common salt. It is to these saline qualities that the wholesome invigorating properties of Borage are supposed to be due. Owing to the presence of nitrate of potash when burnt, it will emit sparks with a slight explosive sound.

---Medicinal Action and Uses---Diuretic, demulcent, emollient. Borage is used for fevers and pulmonary complaints. By virtue of its saline constituents, it promotes the activity of the kidneys and for this reason is employed to carry off feverish catarrhs. Its demulcent qualities are due to the mucilage contained in the whole plant.

The seed and leaves are good to increase the milk in women's breasts.   The juice made into a syrup is put with other cooling, opening and cleansing herbs to open obstructions and help the yellow jaundice. Mixed with Fumitory it helpeth the itch, ringworms and tetters, or other spreading scabs and sores. The distilled water helpeth the redness and inflammations of the eyes. The dried herb is never used, always the green.