Borago officinalis and Asthma: Current evidence and therapeutic potential
1 Department of Biology, College of Science, University of Baghdad, Baghdad, Iraq.
2 College of Science, University of Baghdad, Baghdad, Iraq.
3 Mustansiriyah university, College of basic education, Department of science, Baghdad, Iraq.
* Corresponding Author; Email: Shahad.emad@sc.uobaghdad.edu.iq
ORCID Details
Shahad Imad Hameed: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8154-6440
Rayaheen Mohammed Tamkeen: https://orcid.org/0009-0001-2880-6626
Marwan Noori Mohammed: https://orcid.org/0009-0008-5929-9664
Review
International Journal of Life Science Research Archive, 2026, 11(01), 077–083.
Article DOI: 10.53771/ijlsra.2026.11.1.0072
Publication history:
Received on 12 August 2026; revised on 20 September 2026; accepted on 22 September 2026
Abstract:
Borage (Borago officinalis L.) is noted for its bioactive compounds, particularly gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), which may play a role in respiratory inflammatory processes. This study reviews its chemical makeup, anti-inflammatory and anti-asthmatic effects, and clinical data regarding asthma. Borage may influence leukotriene production and lipid mediator metabolism, potentially alleviating respiratory symptoms. However, clinical evidence is limited, and variability in plant materials and study designs complicates comparisons. Safety concerns, particularly regarding pyrrolizidine alkaloids, are significant. B. officinalis shows promise for asthma research, necessitating rigorous clinical studies and safety assessments to better understand its therapeutic potential.
Keywords:
Asthma, Borago Officinalis, Gamma-Linolenic Acid (GLA), Medicinal Plants, Pyrrolizidine Alkaloids (PA).
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Copyright © 2026 Author(s) retain the copyright of this article. This article is published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution Liscense 4.0