Borage and evening primrose oil

Abstract The paper gives a short overview about the production and composition of borage ( Borago officinalis ) and evening primrose ( Oenothera biennis ) oil considering special aspects of the production as cold‐pressed oil. Both oils are characterized by a remarkable amount of γ‐linolenic acid, which has some nutritional advantages. The fatty acid composition of evening primrose oil is dominated by linoleic acid with about 72% and about 13% γ‐linolenic acid, while borage oil consists of twice the amount of γ‐linolenic acid and only 38% linoleic acid. The amount of saturated fatty acids is higher in borage oil. The tocopherol composition of both oils is dominated by γ‐tocopherol, with borage oil containing twice the amount compared to evening primrose oil.