Borage oil, which comes from the seeds of the borage plant, is gaining recognition as a natural supplement because it’s high in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). This essential omega-6 fatty acid is important for supporting the health of our skin, hair, and nails. Plus, it helps regulate inflammation and assists in balancing hormones.
Borage oil supplements come in various forms, including capsules, soft gels, and oils. When it comes to choosing the best borage oil supplement, there are a few critical factors to consider. Firstly, the purity and potency of the oil are essential, as low-quality products may contain harmful contaminants or ineffective ingredients. Secondly, the dosage and form of the supplement should be appropriate for your needs and preferences.
After researching and testing several borage oil supplements, we have identified the top products that deliver high-quality GLA and offer excellent value for money. In the following sections, we will provide an in-depth review of each product, highlighting their unique features and benefits.
Best Borage Oil Supplements
We’ve researched and tested numerous borage oil supplements to bring you the best options available. Borage oil is a rich source of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an essential omega-6 fatty acid that has been shown to have numerous health benefits. Whether you’re looking to improve your skin health, reduce inflammation, or support overall wellness, we’ve got you covered. Here are our top picks for the best borage oil supplements on the market.
1. Nature’s Way Borage Oil, Cold Pressed & Unrefined, GLA Supplement
If you are looking for a high-quality borage oil supplement, Nature’s Way Borage Oil is a great choice. We highly recommend this product because it is cold-pressed and unrefined, ensuring that you get the highest quality oil with 23% gamma-linolenic acid (GLA).
Pros
- The softgels are easy to take and have a pleasant taste.
- Contains both omega-6 and omega-9 fatty acids.
- No chemical solvents, starch, or artificial colors.
Cons
- Borage oil is high in Omega 6, which can be inflammatory if not balanced with Omega 3.
- Some users may experience gastrointestinal discomfort.
- May not be suitable for vegetarians as the softgels contain gelatin.
We have been using Nature’s Way Borage Oil for a few weeks now and have noticed a significant improvement in our skin, hair, and joints. The softgels are easy to swallow, and we have not experienced any aftertaste or unpleasant side effects.
One of the things we love about this product is that it contains both omega-6 and omega-9 fatty acids, which are essential for maintaining healthy skin, hair, and nails. Additionally, the oil is cold-pressed and unrefined, ensuring that you get the highest quality oil with 23% GLA.
However, it is important to note that borage oil is high in Omega 6, which can be inflammatory if not balanced with Omega 3. Some users may experience gastrointestinal discomfort, so it is important to start with a small dose and gradually increase it over time. Additionally, the softgels contain gelatin, which may not be suitable for vegetarians.
Overall, we highly recommend Nature’s Way Borage Oil as a high-quality supplement that can help improve your overall health and well-being. If you are looking for a natural way to support your skin, hair, and joints, this is definitely worth trying.
2. NOW Borage Oil Supplement
If you’re looking for a reliable borage oil supplement, we recommend the NOW Borage Oil Supplement.
Pros
- Contains 240mg of GLA
- Expeller-pressed and hexane-free
- Non-GMO and Kosher certified
Cons
- Large pills
- May arrive warm during summer months
- Exposure to heat or sunlight may lead to melting/damage of product
We’ve been using the NOW Borage Oil Supplement for a while now, and we’re impressed with its effectiveness. The supplement contains 240mg of GLA, which is essential for body functions and can be more efficiently utilized for body functions when supplied directly through dietary sources. We also appreciate that it’s expeller-pressed and hexane-free, making it a safe and healthy choice.
However, the pills are quite large, which may be difficult for some people to swallow. Additionally, the product may arrive warm during the summer months, which can lead to melting or damage. Finally, exposure to heat or sunlight may also cause damage to the product.
Overall, we highly recommend the NOW Borage Oil Supplement for anyone looking for a reliable and effective borage oil supplement.
3. Barlean’s Omega Twin Liquid Flaxseed Oil and Pure Borage Oil Supplement with Lignans
We highly recommend Barlean’s Omega Twin Liquid Flaxseed Oil and Pure Borage Oil Supplement with Lignans for those looking for a healthy and effective way to supplement their diet with essential Omega fatty acids.
Pros
- Barlean’s Lignan Omega Twin oil offers a full spectrum of Omegas 3, 6, and 9 with 6,010mg Omega 3 (ALA) & 465mg Omega 6 (GLA) plus 2140mg Oleic Acid.
- Omega 3 fatty acids from flax support heart and joint health.
- Pure Borage seed oil is cold pressed without the use of Hexane or other solvents combined with organic flaxssed oil.
Cons
- The usual slightly bitter taste of flax oil.
- May not be suitable for those with allergies to flaxseed or borage.
- Some may find the texture of the oil unpleasant.
This supplement is a great source of Omega 3, 6, and 9 fatty acids, which are essential for overall health and well-being. The combination of flaxseed and borage oils provides a range of benefits, including support for heart, brain, and joint health. The product is made with simple, pure ingredients and is free from common allergens.
Barlean’s Omega Twin is easy to use and can be added to a variety of foods and beverages, making it a convenient way to get the nutrients your body needs. We appreciate the high quality and purity of this product, and its effectiveness in supporting overall health.
4. Barlean’s Borage Oil Capsules
We highly recommend Barlean’s Borage Oil Capsules for anyone looking for a high-quality supplement to support their skin, joint, and bone health.
Pros
- Contains 360mg Linoleic Acid, 200mg GLA, and 170mg Oleic Acid per 1000mg softgel
- Simple ingredients with pure borage oil in each gelatin capsule
- May support and nourish dry, itchy skin and soothe irritation
Cons
- May not be suitable for those with a borage allergy
- Some users may experience mild stomach upset
- Contains soy, which may be an allergen for some individuals
We have found that Barlean’s Borage Oil Capsules are an excellent source of GLA, an omega-6 fatty acid that supports the production of prostaglandins for skin health and immune function. The simple ingredient list with pure borage oil in each gelatin capsule ensures that you are getting a high-quality product without any unnecessary additives.
Additionally, we have noticed improvements in our skin condition after taking these capsules regularly. Dry, itchy skin has been soothed, and our skin feels more hydrated overall. However, it is important to note that those with a borage allergy should avoid this product.
Overall, we believe that Barlean’s Borage Oil Capsules are a fantastic choice for anyone looking to support their skin, joint, and bone health with a high-quality supplement.
5. Sapling Algae Omega-3 Supplement
We highly recommend this vegan omega-3 supplement as it is a great alternative to fish oil and supports heart, brain, and joint health.
Pros
- Sustainably sourced algae grown in the USA.
- Contains bioavailable DHA and EPA for brain, heart, and joint support.
- One bottle purchase plants a tree.
Cons
- Only 60 softgels per bottle.
- May not be suitable for those with algae allergies.
- May not be as effective as fish oil for some individuals.
We were impressed with the quality of this supplement as it is sourced from algae grown in the USA and sustainably harvested. It contains bioavailable DHA and EPA for brain, heart, and joint support, which are naturally occurring in algae oil. We also appreciate that for each bottle purchased, a tree is planted. However, it should be noted that there are only 60 softgels per bottle and it may not be suitable for those with algae allergies. Additionally, some individuals may find that it is not as effective as fish oil for their needs.
In summary, if you are looking for a vegan omega-3 supplement that is sustainably sourced and supports heart, brain, and joint health, we recommend giving Sapling Algae Omega-3 Supplement a try.
6. Zenwise Vegan Omega-3 Plant Based Fish Oil Alternative
We recommend Zenwise Vegan Omega-3 supplement for those looking for a vegan-friendly alternative to fish oil that promotes brain, heart, joint, and immune system health, as well as eye care.
Pros
- This plant-based Omega-3 supplement contains high concentrations of EPA and DHA derived from marine algae, making it a sustainable and ethical choice.
- Zenwise Vegan Omega-3 has a burpless formula, so you don’t have to worry about unpleasant fishy aftertaste.
- The supplement comes in a 120-softgel supply, providing a long-lasting and convenient solution for your Omega-3 needs.
Cons
- The price of Zenwise Vegan Omega-3 may be higher than other Omega-3 supplements on the market.
- Some users may experience mild digestive discomfort when taking the supplement.
- The size of the softgel may be slightly larger than other supplements, so it may be difficult to swallow for some individuals.
We have been using Zenwise Vegan Omega-3 for a few weeks now and have noticed improvements in our joint mobility and overall brain function. The supplement is easy to take and doesn’t leave any unpleasant aftertaste. We appreciate that it is a sustainable and ethical choice, and the 120-softgel supply means we don’t have to worry about running out anytime soon.
The supplement is also AVA-certified vegan and non-GMO, which aligns with our dietary preferences. We appreciate that it contains an eye-healthy dose of DHA to benefit vision and help keep eyesight normal.
Overall, we highly recommend Zenwise Vegan Omega-3 for those looking for a high-quality, plant-based Omega-3 supplement that supports various aspects of health and wellness.
Buying Guide
When choosing the best borage oil supplement, there are several factors to consider. Here are some features to look for:
Purity and Quality
It is important to choose a supplement that is pure and of high quality. Look for a product that is certified by a third-party organization, such as the US Pharmacopeia (USP) or the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF). These certifications ensure that the product has been tested for purity and quality.
Dosage
The dosage of borage oil can vary from product to product. Make sure to choose a supplement that provides an adequate dosage of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), which is the active ingredient in borage oil. The recommended dosage of GLA is typically around 240-480 mg per day.
Form
Borage oil supplements are available in various forms, including capsules, softgels, and liquid. Choose a form that is convenient and easy for you to take.
Price
The price of borage oil supplements can vary widely. While it is important to choose a high-quality product, it is also important to consider the price. Look for a product that offers good value for money.
Other Considerations
Some other factors to consider when choosing a borage oil supplement include the reputation of the manufacturer, any additional ingredients in the supplement, and any potential side effects or interactions with other medications.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best borage oil supplement for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of taking borage oil supplements?
Borage oil supplements are rich in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), which is an essential fatty acid that our body needs but cannot produce. GLA has anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce symptoms of conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, eczema, and PMS. Borage oil supplements may also support heart health, improve bone health, and boost the immune system.
How do I choose the right borage oil supplement for me?
When choosing a borage oil supplement, it’s important to look for one that is pure, organic, and cold-pressed. Make sure the supplement contains at least 20% GLA and has undergone third-party testing for quality and purity. You may also want to consider the form of the supplement – capsules, liquid, or softgels – and choose one that is easy for you to take.
Are there any side effects of taking borage oil supplements?
Borage oil supplements are generally safe when taken in recommended doses. However, some people may experience mild side effects like stomach upset, diarrhea, or bloating. If you experience any adverse effects, stop taking the supplement and consult your healthcare provider.
Can borage oil supplements help with hair and skin health?
Yes, borage oil supplements may help improve hair and skin health. GLA is essential for maintaining healthy skin and hair, and borage oil supplements can help reduce inflammation and dryness. Some people also find that borage oil supplements help reduce acne and improve overall skin texture.
Is borage oil safe to take during pregnancy?
Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult their healthcare provider before taking borage oil supplements. While borage oil is generally considered safe, there is limited research on its safety during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
What is the difference between borage oil and evening primrose oil?
Borage oil and evening primrose oil are both rich in GLA, but borage oil contains higher levels of GLA. Borage oil is also a more concentrated source of GLA, which means you may need to take less of it to get the same benefits as evening primrose oil. However, evening primrose oil may be a better option for people who are sensitive to borage oil or have a history of liver problems.
