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Edible Flower Borage
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Be careful! In large amounts Borage can have a diuretic effect.
The edible flower borage is an annual plant that grows 2 to 4 feet tall with purplish blue star shaped flowers. 16th century herbalist, John Gerarde, called this plant "make the mind glad". This hardy annual has a messy, straggling habit. It is a native of northern Europe, and grows well in the temperate regions of North America.
Borage is not a fussy plant, but the richer the soil, the bushier the plant will be. It prefers full sun, and needs protection from wind as it is easily blown over. Seeds can be sown throughout the season, and once growth is established, it will continue to seed itself. Place plants close together so they can support each other. A plant or two in an indoor pot will provide leaves all winter, but it will need lots of sun. Borage is an excellent companion plant for tomatoes, squash and strawberries. The plant actually improves the flavor of tomatoes growing nearby.
Borage makes an excellent candied flower. Click on this link to see some of Grandma's favorite edible flower recipes.
Idea's for Using Edible Flower Borage
- Borage flowers and leaves are the traditional decoration for gin-based summer cocktails, and may be set in ice cubes to garnish other drinks.
- The flowers and young leaves may be used to garnish salads. dips, and cucumber soups.
- Candied borage flowers make attractive cake decorations.
- Chopped leaves can be added to soups and stews during the last few minutes of cooking.
- The leaves can be cooked with cabbage leaves (two parts cabbage, one part borage.)
Incredible Edible Flower Borag
A Medicinal Herb!
Who would think that such a pretty edible flower is also a medicinal herb? It can be used in a variety of ways:
- Because it is a tonic plant for the adrenal glands, borage provides an invaluable support for a stressful lifestyle.
- Borage is rich in minerals, especially potassium.
- A tea made with borage helps to reduce fevers and ease chest colds.
- An infusion of borage acts as a galactogogue, promoting the production of milk in breastfeeding mothers.
- Borage makes an excellent facial steam for improving very dry, sensitive skin.
Click on this link for a simple guide to planting an herb garden.
DISCLAIMER:
The statements made here have not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration. These statements are not intended to diagnose, treat or cure or prevent any disease. This notice is required by the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act.
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