Bioriginal Food & Science Corp. has gained GRAS status for BioAsteri, which may clear the way for functional foods to contain borage oil as a source of gamma linolenic acid (GLA). GLA is an omega-6 fatty acid, and in clinical trials omega-6 exhibits anti-inflammatory benefits, promoting healthy skin, joints and cardiovascular function.
Ripening from July to October, borage seeds have a higher level of GLA than other sources: 23 percent, compared to 15 percent for blackcurrant and 8 percent for evening primrose. GLA is a precursor to the anti-inflammatory eicosanoid, a hormone-like compound that regulate cell function. BioAsteri is available in oil form and as a powder. The powder version contains casonate (also GRAS) as a support medium.