Can you eat borage flowers?
Quick Answer
Yes
Borage flowers are not only edible but also have a sweet, honey-like taste. They are often used in salads, desserts, and drinks for their flavor and decorative properties.
What Is It?
Borage, also known as starflower, is an annual herb native to the Mediterranean region. It is known for its bright blue flowers and hairy leaves.
Historical Context
Borage has been used in culinary and medicinal applications since ancient times. The Romans believed it to be a source of courage and used it in their wine.
Why It Can Be Risky
While borage flowers are generally safe to eat, some parts of the plant contain small amounts of pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which can be harmful if consumed in large quantities.
- Pyrrolizidine alkaloids are toxic to the liver and lungs.
- Allergic reactions, though rare, can occur.
Safe Method?
To safely consume borage flowers, they should be thoroughly washed and any green parts (which contain higher levels of pyrrolizidine alkaloids) should be removed.
Safe Alternatives
Edible flowers like nasturtiums, violets, and marigolds can be used as alternatives to borage flowers in culinary applications.
Storage Tips
Borage flowers should be stored in a cool, dry place and used as soon as possible after harvesting to maintain their flavor and freshness.
Preparation Tips
Borage flowers can be used fresh in salads, frozen in ice cubes for drinks, or crystallized for desserts.