|
See also: Borage Cooking Tips
BORAGE
Borage (Borago officinalis) also known as Starflower, is an annual herb with hairy gray-green leaves. The whole plant has a cucumber odor and flavor. Its bright blue star-shapped flowers are a favorite of honey bees. The flowers may occasionally be white or pink.
Borage is native to the Mediterranean region and has been used in cookery since the Middle Ages.
Borage leaves have been used to brew tea for hundreds of years.
In England the leaves are a common garnish for drinks such as Claret Cup, Pimm's No.1 and cold punches.
It was thought that when given to prospective husbands, it would give them the courage to propose.
Borage was also favored by soldiers before a battle and travelers before a journey.
CAUTION: Mature borage leaves contain small amounts of liver-toxic alkaloids and should be used in moderation.
|
