Content
- Borage: A harmless spice herb or poisonous?
- Borage - an edible spice herb
- Beware of the alkaloids
- It depends on the dose
- Tips & Tricks
Borage: A harmless spice herb or poisonous?
Borage has the following convincing advantage: once planted in the garden, it grows every year anew, because he likes to self-seed. But can one enjoy this herb without worries?
Freezing Borage - A Good Idea?Borage - an edible spice herb
Borage is one of the lesser known culinary herbs. It is characterized by a cucumber-like taste. Among others, he likes to be used for the following dishes:
Beware of the alkaloids
But beware: borage is indeed edible, but contains so-called Pyrrolizidinalalkaloide similar to other Raubblattgewächse among others such as comfrey and Adderhead. These alkaloids are toxic in high doses or have a harmful effect on the liver. In addition, they are said to be carcinogenic.
The alkaloids are mainly contained in the stems, leaves and flowers of the borage. They act as protection against predators. This substance does not occur in the seeds. Therefore, the borage oil is not dangerous.
It depends on the dose
The well-known wisdom, "The dose makes the poison." Is also true here. Borage should be used sparingly. In no case should you give borage in large quantities, for example dried in smoothies, sauces and co. Also, it is not recommended to juicing. Even when cooking, the alkaloids are not destroyed.
But do not panic. The occasional consumption of borage is harmless. This herb is extremely healthy in moderation. Among other things contribute to the contained vitamins, mucilages and omega-3 fatty acids.
Tips & Tricks
Especially toddlers, pregnant women and nursing mothers should be careful and avoid borage!
KKF