What specific action has the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advised against concerning borage leaves and flowers?
Answer
Consuming them regularly or in large quantities
Due to the presence of hepatotoxic Pyrrolizidine Alkaloids (PAs) in the raw plant material, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued clear guidance regarding the consumption of borage leaves and flowers. The specific advisory is directed against ingesting these parts of the plant regularly or in significant doses, as this increases the risk of liver toxicity associated with the alkaloids. Although traditional methods sometimes involve cooking the leaves, which may reduce PA levels, the inherent risk remains substantial enough that reputable sources often recommend caution or outright avoidance of routine consumption of the raw herb material.
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