Borage Oil (GLA): Uses, Benefits, Dosage & Safety

Last updated: June 2026 · Reviewed by the FactoWiki Editorial Team for clarity and source accuracy

What is Borage Oil (GLA)?

Borage (starflower) oil is pressed from borage seeds and is the richest natural source of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an omega-6 fatty acid. It's used for skin conditions like eczema, for inflammatory and joint symptoms, and for women's hormonal complaints, similar to evening primrose oil.

What Borage Oil (GLA) is commonly used for

In supplements, Borage Oil (GLA) is most often included for skin & anti-aging, joint & bone health support. It is used as nutritional support, not as a treatment for any medical condition — the distinction matters, because the claims on a sales page are often stronger than the evidence allows.

How Borage Oil (GLA) works

GLA is converted in the body to anti-inflammatory compounds (such as DGLA and certain prostaglandins), which is the rationale for using it in inflammatory skin and joint conditions. The conversion and net effect vary between people.

What the evidence says

Here's an honest snapshot of what published research suggests about Borage Oil (GLA) — including where the evidence is limited.

• GLA from borage has mixed evidence: some studies suggest benefit for rheumatoid arthritis symptoms and possibly eczema, while large reviews of eczema have been disappointing. (PubMed research)
• Overall it's modestly supported for inflammatory joint symptoms and inconsistent for skin. (PubMed research)

Typical dosage used in studies

Studies have used borage oil providing roughly 1-3 g of GLA per day for joint conditions. This is research information for context, not a recommendation — confirm what's appropriate for you with a healthcare professional.

Side effects and safety

Generally well tolerated. Important: unrefined borage oil can contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs), which are liver-toxic, so choose PA-free certified products.

Medication interactions and who should avoid Borage Oil (GLA)

Sources & further reading

The summary above is drawn from peer-reviewed research and authoritative references. For general, authoritative background you can also consult:

• PubMed research on Borage Oil (GLA)
• NIH Office of Dietary Supplements
• NIH National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health
• MedlinePlus (U.S. National Library of Medicine)

Frequently asked questions

What is borage oil used for?

Mainly skin conditions (eczema) and inflammatory/joint symptoms, via its GLA content.

Does it work?

Evidence is mixed — modest for rheumatoid arthritis, inconsistent for eczema.

Is borage oil safe?

Choose PA-free certified products, as unrefined borage oil can contain liver-toxic alkaloids.

How is it different from evening primrose oil?

Both supply GLA; borage oil is more concentrated in GLA.