Once again, an herb which is not specifically helpful for the control of diabetes directly, but which has a range of applications in treating complications of diabetes, and in making diabetes care more manageable.

This herb comes in several forms, but the oil is the most effective form to use. Historically, borage was called the “herb of happiness”, and was used as a gentle mood lifter. It is NOT a euphoric drug by any means! The affect is gentle, and almost unidentifiable, except that you just feel a bit better if you have struggled with depression and this works for you. I used it in conjunction with St. John’s Wort and found that the combination was more effective than either one by itself.

Borage oil also contains GLA, in higher amounts than Evening Primrose Oil, so it is a good oil for cellular repair and combats some of the effects of aging. It can make a noticeable difference for a range of skin, hair, and nail conditions. Not important? With diabetes, it can be VERY important!

I have sceborrhetic dermatitis. This condition causes oily scaling and scabbing in several areas on my face and scalp. It can get pretty nasty if left untreated. Borage oil, when applied topically, has a minor effect on the condition. When I take one capsule a day, it improves the condition by 50% or better. Higher doses do not improve it any more though, so it is not a total solution, but does help some.

Borage oil can be a major help in some of the complications of diabetes which involve skin. Dryness, eczema, and other problems are frequent, and borage oil can help to heal them from the inside out. My husband has cracked and chapped hands which get very painful in the winter. Daily doses of borage oil, taken internally, improve the condition but do not totally relieve it. He also takes coconut oil, and uses shea butter topically, along with arnica applied morning and evening. The combination keeps his hands in much better condition through the winter, and reduces the number of painful bleeding splits.

It does not take much of this oil to make a noticeable difference. Generally, one or two gelcaps per day is sufficient.

The direct affect on blood sugar is unknown, so proceed with caution and test frequently if you choose to use it. Then be on guard for unusual reactions, as with all herbs.