Microcapsules containing Borage seed oil

The microcapsules of borage oil, obtained by coacervation, make this active ingredient particularly resistant to oxidation and to the reduction of peroxides. The dimensions of the microcapsules are included between 100 and 600 μm and they can reach an oil content of up to 85%. The microcapsules can be added to solid oral formulations such as hard capsules, sachets or orodispersible formulations, while preserving the nutritional characteristics of the oil as it is.

Borage oil, derived from the seeds of the Borrago Officinalis plant, has numerous uses and is gaining popularity as a natural anti-inflammatory supplement because it features one of the highest amounts of GLA (Gamma Linoleic Acid) among all seed oils. GLA is a type of essential Omega-6 fatty acid that the body cannot produce on its own and therefore needs to take from external sources. As a Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid (PUFA), the GLA contained in borage oil is known for its beneficial antiinflammatory effects as well as for its anti-aging mechanisms [1].

Omega-3 and Omega-6 PUFAs play an important role in treating several diseases because they help control the release of the molecules which are responsible for the body’s inflammatory responses (prostaglandins, leukotrienes and cytokines called interleukins). In addition, GLA has positive effects on cell death (apoptosis) for toxic cells.

Once it enters the body, GLA is converted into Dihomo-γ-linolenic acid (DGLA) which acts as a precursor to the prostaglandins and leukotriene compounds that the immune system produces. DGLA is thought to decrease inflammation because it inhibits the synthesis of leukotrienes, which are partly responsible for increasing autoimmune reactions and thrombotic effects. For this reason, borage oil is used to alleviate the symptoms of various inflammatory and age-related ailments, including arthritis, atopic eczema and some respiratory disorders [2].

"[1]. Tasset-Cuevas I, Fernández-Bedmar Z, Lozano-Baena MD, e al., Protective Effect of borragine Seed Oil and Gamma Linolenic Acid on DNA: In Vivo and In Vitro Studies., in PLoS ONE, vol. 8, n. 2, McCormick DL,, 2013, DOI:10.1371/journal.pone.0056986."

"[2]. Gilania AH, Bashira S, Khana AU, Pharmacological basis for the use of Borago officinalis in gastrointestinal, respiratory and cardiovascular disorders., in J Ethnopharmacol, vol. 114, 2007, pp. 393–399.