Borage oil
Borage oil is extracted from the seeds of borage (Borago officinalis), a plant also called starflower. It is produced by pressing or solvent extraction and then refined. It is one of the richest plant sources of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), with higher GLA than evening primrose oil. Brands buy it as refined oil for softgels and blends, sold at a stated GLA level.
Suppliers sell different products under the same name. Specify the one you need.
Refined and deodorized oil sold with a minimum GLA content.
Mechanically pressed oil with less processing.
Oil from certified organic borage seed, in smaller supply.
Borage oil combined with fish or flaxseed oil in multi-oil softgels.
Compare each result with your own specification when the lot arrives.
Store sealed in airtight containers, protected from light, in a cool place. Shelf life follows the supplier specification, with peroxide value retested before using older stock.
Record GLA content and the pyrrolizidine alkaloid result for each lot. GLA varies with seed crop, so recheck label calculations when switching lots.
Facts from regulators and standards bodies, each linked to its source.
Health Canada's borage oil monograph lists the seed of Borago officinalis as the source material.
Source: webprod.hc-sc.gc.ca (opens in a new tab)The monograph allows products standardized to 18-27% GLA.
Source: webprod.hc-sc.gc.ca (opens in a new tab)This is general information, not regulatory advice. Status differs by country and by how the ingredient is used, so check the rules for your product and market.
Manufacturers and distributors whose own websites say they sell it.
Manufacturer · Saskatoon, Canada
Canadian supplier of plant and marine oils, coconut and MCT oils, seeds and proteins in bulk and finished formats for food, supplement and pet nutrition brands.
Manufacturer · Deerfield, IL
US oleochemical producer whose personal care unit (which absorbed Jeen International) sources, blends and refines natural oils and butters in cosmetic, food and pharma grades, and makes glycerin.
Suppliers are in alphabetical order and none pays to appear. Each claim is checked against the supplier’s own website on the date shown. Ask for the specification sheet and a recent COA before you order, and confirm details with the supplier.
Common forms include refined oil, cold-pressed, organic and blends. Ask each supplier for the specification sheet of the exact grade they quote.
Expect gLA and fatty acid profile, pyrrolizidine alkaloids, free fatty acids and peroxide value, residual solvents and heavy metals, each with its method, specification and result for that lot.
Store sealed in airtight containers, protected from light, in a cool place. Shelf life follows the supplier specification, with peroxide value retested before using older stock.
Health Canada's borage oil monograph lists the seed of Borago officinalis as the source material. The monograph allows products standardized to 18-27% GLA.
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