The Encyclopedia of Crystals, Herbs, and New Age Elements: An A to Z Guide to New Age Elements and How to Use Them - Adams Media 2016

Borage
The Power of Flowers: Flower Essences

ORIGINS

Native to the Mediterranean region, borage (Borago officinalis), also known as starflower, is an annual herb with blue or purplish star-shaped flowers and bristly stems and leaves. The whole plant is edible, but the flowers in particular are favored for their cucumber-like taste, which makes borage flower essence cool and refreshing. It is believed the word borage comes from the Arabic abu araq, meaning “source of sweat”—due to its use as a sudorific (a substance that cools the body by stimulating the sweat glands).

HISTORY/LORE

The Roman naturalist and philosopher Pliny the Elder (23—79) wrote that borage “maketh a man merry and joyful.” Borage is also believed to be the herb called nepenthe in Homer’s Odyssey—a drug that is supposed to help one forget one’s sorrow. Borage flowers steeped in wine was a medieval cure for melancholy.

USES

Borage flower essence is known first and foremost as a courage enhancer, helping you find the inner strength you need to overcome obstacles in life. It brings light and clarity during dark times. Borage soothes the heavyhearted by opening the heart chakra, releasing the emotions that cause depression and making way for optimism, enthusiasm, and joy. Physically, it has a cooling effect, making it a popular addition to summer beverages such as iced tea, lemonade, and fruit juice.