Fats and oils

Borage oil

Also called: starflower oil, GLA

Seed oil rich in GLA.

Why people take it
Arthritis, eczema.
What the evidence says
Some evidence for rheumatoid arthritis.
How it is usually taken
Only certified PA-free oil, 1 to 3 g a day.
Be careful
Some products contain liver toxins; choose "PA-free". Avoid in pregnancy.
Medicines it can interact with
May add to blood thinners; may lower the seizure threshold.

Other fats and oils

Krill oilCod liver oilAlgal oilFlaxseed oilMCT oilConjugated linoleic acidPhosphatidylserineLecithinBlack currant seed oilOmega-7Plant sterolsPolicosanolOmega-3 for kids

Common questions

What is Borage oil?

Seed oil rich in GLA.

Why do people take Borage oil?

Arthritis, eczema.

Does Borage oil work?

Some evidence for rheumatoid arthritis.

How much Borage oil do people take?

Only certified PA-free oil, 1 to 3 g a day.

Is Borage oil safe?

Some products contain liver toxins; choose "PA-free". Avoid in pregnancy.

Does Borage oil interact with medicines?

May add to blood thinners; may lower the seizure threshold.

Sources and further reading

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu.

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For information only, not medical advice. Supplements are not medicines: they are not tested and approved like drugs before they are sold, and they can interact with medicines. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before you start one, especially if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, take regular medicines, or have kidney, liver or heart disease.