Borage oil

Also known as borage seed oil, GLA.

Last reviewed October 9, 2026 · Jump to references

What is Borage oil?

In plain words

Borage oil comes from borage seeds and contains a fat called GLA. The body changes GLA into other fats used to make signals that help control inflammation. Researchers study it for conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and eczema, but benefits are not firmly established. A safety concern is contamination with plant chemicals called pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which can harm the liver.

Technical definition

Borage oil is a seed-derived lipid mixture from Borago officinalis, rich in the omega-6 fatty acid gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), rather than a single fatty acid. GLA is elongated to dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid (DGLA), a precursor of lipid mediators that influence inflammatory signaling; the oil does not act through a single molecular receptor. It is marketed as a dietary supplement, not an FDA-approved treatment for disease.

Educational information only. This page does not provide medical advice or determine whether a supplement is appropriate for you. Review supplements with a qualified healthcare professional, especially if you take medication, are pregnant, have surgery scheduled, or have a chronic medical condition.

Evidence by use

Each use is rated on its own. There is no single overall effectiveness score.