Between 40 million and 50 million people have acne, as reported by the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). Teenagers are most often affected by acne, though adults can get it as well. Over 85 percent of all teenagers suffer from acne. Medical intervention is not always necessary and often, a good hygiene routine will help clear up acne problems. Natural products like borage oil claim to be able to treat acne, though there is not enough medical evidence to prove this theory.
Symptoms and Causes of Acne
When pores become blocked with excess oil and dirt, acne can develop. Sometimes the acne is small and flat, and other times it can form tiny to large bumps that may be filled with pus. The deeper the inflammation, the more intense the acne is.
You can get acne anywhere on your body, but it most often appears on the face.
About Borage Oil and Names for Borage Oil
Coming from the borage plant, borage oil is also known as borago officinalis. It also goes by the names of:
- bee bread
- borage seed oil
- bee plant
- ox’s tongue
- starflower oil
There isn’t much clinical data to prove borage oil has health benefits, but it does contain gamma-linoleic acid, GLA. GLA is known to have health benefits.
Using Borage Oil for Health Benefits Including Treating Acne
Borage oil has been used since the Middle Ages in treating a variety of disorders, including inflammatory skin disorders, according to Drugs.com. It has also been used in treating arthritis, chest congestion and infantile seborrheic dermatitis.
You can use borage oil topically or take it internally. When taken internally, it can improve cell membrane health, improve blood properties and, reports Psoriasis-Aid.com, reduces inflammation.
When used topically, borage oil helps provide a barrier on the skin and retain moisture, improves skin health and also has anti-inflammatory benefits.
Warnings When Using Borage Oil to Treat Acne
There may be negative effects on your liver when using borage oil. It should not be taken during pregnancy or lactation. Borage oil may likely interact with other medication you are taking, so consult your doctor before taking it.
Side Effects From Taking Borage Oil for Acne
Borage oil is likely to cause premature labor. It may also induce the following side effects:
- constipation
- headache
- indigestion
- bloating
- nausea
GLA is also known to lower the seizure threshold.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be used for diagnosis or to guide treatment without the opinion of a health professional. Any reader who is concerned about his or her health should contact a doctor for advice.
References:
American Academy of Dermatology. "Acne" (accessed October, 16, 2010)
Drugs.com. "Borage" (accessed October, 16, 2010)
WorldHealth.net."Borage Oil" (accessed October, 16, 2010)
Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. "Borage" (accessed October, 16, 2010)
Psoriasis-Aid.com. "Borage Oil Psoriasis Remedy" (accessed October, 16, 2010)
Tamara Laschinsky - Health and wellness advocate, author, researcher and owner of Natural e GREEN: Natural Health & Wellness store!
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