What are the characteristics and uses of Borago officinalis?

Borago officinalis

Do you know the Borago officinalis? Perhaps this name does not tell you anything, but ... what if I tell you that it is known as borage? Things change, right? 🙂 But it is important to know the scientific names of plants, since unlike the common ones, they are universal, that is, they are used throughout the world.

This herb is a very fast growing plant that has numerous uses, both culinary and medicinal. In addition, it has a fairly high ornamental value, so if you want to give your garden a little color, Keep reading to know more about her.

What are their characteristics?

Borago officinalis leaves

La Borago officinalis It is a plant native to Syria and Egypt that has become naturalized throughout the Mediterranean region as well as in Asia Minor, warm areas of Western Europe, North Africa and South America. It reaches a height of between 60 and 100cm, with hairy stems and leaves. The leaves are alternate and simple, with a slightly serrated margin, and are 5 to 15 cm long.

The flowers are complete, and have 5 narrow triangular petals of blue, pink or white.

How is it grown?

If you want to get a copy, we recommend you follow our advice:

  • Location: outside, in full sun.
  • Earth:
    • Garden: it is indifferent.
    • Pot: universal growing substrate mixed with 30% perlite.
  • Irrigation: 3-4 times a week in summer and a little less the rest of the year.
  • Subscriber: from spring to late summer with an organic compost, such as guano or manure. In case of having it in a pot, liquid organic fertilizers should be used.
  • Harvest: in autumn the basal leaves are collected and in spring the flowers.
  • Multiplication: by seeds in spring. Direct sowing in seedbed.

What uses does it have?

Borage leaves

Culinary

All parts of the plant are consumed except the roots. It is common to use them raw as ingredients in salads, or cooked to make desserts or various recipes, such as the Spanish omelette, or the »Amelia scrambled eggs», a typical dish from the community of Aragon that includes chard, garlic and egg. borage.

The truth is that it can be used in any dish, even in desserts. So you just have to experiment 🙂.

Medicinal

It has diuretic, sudorific, anti-stress, emollient properties and also serves to regulate blood pressure and cholesterol.. The way of use is by decoction of the leaves, or as plasters.

Enjoy your Borago officinalis! 🙂


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