The Romans mixed borage tea in their wine before battles for an adrenaline rush. The tea, first used in Europe gradually gained popularity worldwide.
Once Borage flowers are naturally sun-dried, they turn into a deep vibrant blue. The taste profile of this herbal ingredient is described as sweet and honey-like taste.
Health Benefits:
The expectorant properties present in the tea may work towards clearing the mucus, providing relief from cough, cold, chest congestion, and sore throat.
Packed with polyphenols, Vitamin A, Vitamin C and minerals like copper and iron, Borage is said to help in boosting the body’s immunity. It also contains Gamma-linoleic acid (GLA) which is an omega-6 fatty acid, beneficial for strengthening the bones and maintaining your overall health.
It contains niacin or nicotine acid that has a mild sedative effect, which may help in reducing stress, nervousness, and anxiety, as well as easing depression and mood swings.
A study reported that borage might inhibit the growth of H pylori, a common gut bacterium that tends to attack the lining of the stomach, causing gastritis and peptic ulcers. Thus, a refreshing cup of the tea may foster the digestive process, reducing the symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome.
Being a diuretic, drinking this tea may help in removing toxins and releasing excess liquid that has been retained by the body.
Serving Suggestion:
- Hot tea brewing method: Bring freshly drawn cold water to a rolling boil. Place 1 tea bag for each cup into the teapot. Pour the boiling water into the teapot. Cover and let steep for 3-7 minutes according to taste (the longer the steeping time the stronger the tea).
- Iced tea brewing method (to make 1 liter/quart): Place 6 tea bags into a teapot or heat resistant pitcher. Pour 1 1/4 cups of freshly boiled water over the tea. Steep for 5 minutes. Quarter fill a serving pitcher with cold water. Pour the tea into your serving pitcher straining the bags. Add ice and top-up the pitcher with cold water. Garnish and sweeten to taste. [A rule of thumb when preparing fresh brewed iced tea is to double the strength of hot tea since it will be poured over ice and diluted with cold water].
Safety Precautions
- Side Effects
Borage tea, when consumed in moderate amount may have no side effects. Overuse or long-term usage should be avoided as borage leaves contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids that may adversely affect the liver.
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Pregnant women should refrain from having this tea as it might be unsafe. Though borage tea might be effective in increasing milk supply, consult a doctor before adding it as a part of your diet.