Health Benefits and Protocols of Borax and Boron

The “Forbidden” Health Benefits of Borax and Boron

Borax – the humble white mineral powder known as a laundry booster – has ignited intense debate in health circles. Also known as sodium borate, borax is rich in the element boron. Boron, a trace mineral found in fruits, vegetables, and soil, is seldom talked about in mainstream nutrition. Yet among biohackers and holistic health enthusiasts, boron is touted as a key to easing inflammation, strengthening bones, balancing hormones, and even detoxifying the body. Why then would such a seemingly beneficial mineral be labeled “forbidden”? In this research-driven exploration, we delve into the alleged health benefits of borax and boron, the scientific evidence behind them (or lack thereof), and the controversies that have led regulators to ban borax’s use as a health supplement. The goal is a comprehensive, neutral look at facts and claims – from arthritis relief and osteoporosis prevention to microplastic detox and Morgellons disease – written in clear language for the informed reader.

Boron and Borax: What They Are and Why They Matter

Boron is a natural element (atomic number 5) that plays important roles in plants and perhaps in human health. In the human diet, boron comes mainly from plant foods – fruits, vegetables, nuts – and average diets provide only about 1–2 milligrams (mg) of boron per dayforestqueen2020.wordpress.com. (For comparison, diets a century ago or those high in produce may have given 2–5 mg or moreforestqueen2020.wordpress.com.) Modern agriculture and food processing have reduced boron levels in foods: chemical fertilizers inhibit plants’ uptake of boron, and practices like discarding vegetable cooking water further wash this mineral awayforestqueen2020.wordpress.com. While not officially deemed “essential” by conventional medicine, mounting research suggests boron is needed for optimal health – especially for bones and jointspubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.govpmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. Notably, even without “essential nutrient” status, no less than 11 distinct health benefits of boron have been documented in scientific studies, ranging from bone maintenance to improved cognitive functionpmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.govpmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov.

Borax, or sodium tetraborate (Na₂B₄O₇·10H₂O), is a naturally occurring mineral salt that contains about 11% elemental boronforestqueen2020.wordpress.com. Borax has been used for over a century in industrial and household applications – as a cleaner, water softener, insecticide, and even as a preservative. In fact, boron compounds like borax and boric acid were once used to preserve foods, until they were banned for that purpose in most countries due to toxicity concernsforestqueen2020.wordpress.com. Chemically, borax is the sodium salt of boric acid – when borax dissolves in water it forms boric acid, which is slightly acidic and has antiseptic propertiesforestqueen2020.wordpress.comforestqueen2020.wordpress.com. Borax and boric acid are often considered together when discussing health effects, since both release boron in the body. Importantly, ingested boron (from any source) does not accumulate indefinitely – it is mostly excreted in urine within a day or twoforestqueen2020.wordpress.com. This means the body clears boron relatively quickly, which is one reason some researchers consider small supplemental doses to be safe.

Conventional authorities maintain that boron’s essentiality in humans isn’t conclusively proven, but acknowledge boron can influence several metabolic processesherbsetc.org. Studies show boron concentrates in bones, teeth, and parathyroid glands, indicating a role in calcium metabolism and bone integrityherbsetc.orgforestqueen2020.wordpress.com. Boron is sometimes described as “for the parathyroids what iodine is for the thyroid” – meaning it helps regulate the parathyroid glands, which in turn control bone-building and mineral balanceforestqueen2020.wordpress.com. With this context, it’s easier to understand why borax/boron supplements are claimed to help conditions like arthritis and osteoporosis. But beyond bones, boron’s web of influence extends to sex hormones, vitamin D activation, brain function, and even immune responses, as we’ll explore below.

Anti-Inflammatory Effects and Arthritis Relief

One of the most frequently cited “forbidden” benefits of borax is its reputed ability to alleviate arthritis and chronic inflammation. The story begins in the 1960s with Dr. Rex Newnham, a British-born researcher working in Perth, Australia. Suffering from arthritis himself, Dr. Newnham knew that boron was crucial for plant health and calcium metabolism in plants. He hypothesized that arthritis in humans might be linked to boron deficiency. In a personal experiment, he began taking around 30 mg of borax per day (providing approximately 3 mg of boron). Remarkably, within three weeks all his arthritis pain, swelling, and stiffness had disappearedforestqueen2020.wordpress.com. Encouraged, Newnham gave boron supplements (in the form of borax tablets) to others and saw many improve. By the 1970s he was producing 3-mg boron tablets and selling them to arthritis patients – reportedly 10,000 bottles a month by word of mouth – with significant successforestqueen2020.wordpress.com.

However, Newnham’s boron cure did not sit well with authorities or certain commercial interests. According to Newnham, when he approached a pharmaceutical company to help manufacture the tablets, the company noted such a product could undermine the sales of more expensive arthritis drugscrunchybetty.com. Subsequently, the Australian government – influenced by experts with pharmaceutical ties, as Newnham alleges – took an unusual step in 1981: it declared boron and all its compounds to be poisons, in any concentration. Dr. Newnham was fined $1,000 for “selling a poison” (i.e. borax tablets)forestqueen2020.wordpress.comforestqueen2020.wordpress.com, which effectively shut down his operation in Australia. The arthritis remedy had been quashed, at least in that country. This incident is often cited by borax proponents as a prime example of a beneficial, safe remedy being suppressed due to economic concerns – a theme we will revisit later.

Despite such setbacks, Dr. Newnham continued researching and publishing data on boron. He noticed an intriguing global pattern: populations with higher boron intake had strikingly lower rates of arthritis. In regions where the daily boron intake is 3–10 mg, the incidence of arthritis ranged from 0 to 10%, but in areas where people got only 1 mg or less boron per day, arthritis rates were far higher – around 20% up to 70%pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. For example, Jamaica (with boron-poor soil) reportedly has an arthritis prevalence near 70%, whereas Israel (boron-rich soils) has around 1% arthritis in adultsforestqueen2020.wordpress.com. Even within one country, differences emerge: rural populations eating local produce from boron-rich soil have far less arthritis than those in cities eating imported or processed food low in boronfaim.orgfaim.org. The correlation suggests boron deficiency could be a risk factor for arthritis.

Estimated arthritis prevalence versus average dietary boron intake, based on Dr. Newnham’s observationspubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. Populations consuming over ~5 mg of boron daily (e.g. parts of Israel and New Zealand) show near-zero rates of arthritis, whereas those getting 1 mg or less have much higher prevalence.

Correlation alone doesn’t prove causation, but clinical trials also hint at boron’s benefits for arthritis. In the mid-1980s, Newnham conducted a double-blind trial in which osteoarthritis patients received either a 6 mg/day boron supplement or a placebo. The outcome: over 50% of those taking boron showed significant improvement, compared to only 10% of the placebo grouppubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. (Other trials using boron have reported even higher response ratesforestqueen2020.wordpress.com, though sample sizes tend to be small.) These results align with countless anecdotal reports that borax or boron supplementation reduces joint pain, stiffness, and swelling in people with arthritis. Many individuals on internet forums have described borax as “a miracle cure” for their long-standing joint pain – often noticing relief within days to weeks of starting a very low-dose regimen. For instance, one user with severe knee and hip pain wrote that after taking a pinch of borax in water daily, “it has completely cured my bad knees and hips”crunchybetty.comcrunchybetty.com.

Scientifically, how might boron ease arthritis? A big factor is inflammation. Arthritis (whether osteoarthritis or rheumatoid) involves inflammatory processes in the joints. Boron has demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects: it reduces levels of inflammatory biomarkers in the body, including C-reactive protein (CRP) and the cytokines tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-6pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.govpmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. One clinical study found that just one week of 6 mg/day boron given to healthy male volunteers led to notable changes: interleukin-6 levels dropped nearly in half (from 1.55 to 0.87 pg/mL), and high-sensitivity CRP fell by roughly 30%pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. These are significant reductions in key drivers of inflammation. Boron is also known to boost antioxidant enzymes like superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase in the bodypmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, which can further quell oxidative stress and inflammatory damage. By dialing down the inflammatory response, boron may help break the vicious cycle of joint degeneration and pain.

Another observed effect is that boron seems to promote healthy repair of joint tissues. Autopsy analyses have shown that arthritic joints and nearby bones have only about half the boron content of healthy joints – and the synovial fluid (joint lubricant) in arthritic joints is boron-deficient as wellforestqueen2020.wordpress.com. Supplementing with boron not only raises boron levels in those tissues but has been noted to lead to harder, stronger bone (surgeons reported that bones of patients taking boron were tougher to saw through) and improved integrity of cartilagepubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.govpubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. Together, these anti-inflammatory and tissue-strengthening actions make a compelling case that boron – though no miracle drug – does support joint health. It’s little wonder that borax has become a popular “underground” remedy for those suffering from arthritis who seek alternatives to standard painkillers or immune-suppressant drugs.

Bone Health and Osteoporosis

Closely tied to the arthritis discussion is bone health in general. Osteoporosis (loss of bone density) and osteoarthritis (joint degeneration) often go hand in hand, especially in older adults. Boron appears beneficial for both. In fact, bone growth and maintenance is arguably the most well-documented area of boron’s nutritional impactpmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.govpmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov.

One of the first clues came from the U.S. Department of Agriculture in 1985. Researchers conducted an experiment with postmenopausal women – a group at high risk for osteoporosis – who were put on a low-boron diet (0.25 mg/day, essentially boron depletion) for 4 months. Then, they gave these women a modest boron supplement of 3 mg/day. The effects were dramatic: the women’s bodies began retaining calcium and magnesium to a far greater extent. Daily urinary excretion of calcium dropped by 44% after boron supplementationpmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. In other words, instead of leaching calcium, their bodies held on to it, potentially allowing more to remain in bones. The calcium loss reduction was especially large when dietary magnesium was also low (since boron and magnesium seem to work together)pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. This finding – that boron conserves the body’s calcium and magnesium – has been repeated in other studies and is crucial for bone healthpmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. Calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus are the primary mineral constituents of bone; losing too much in urine can weaken bones over time. By preventing this mineral drain, boron helps keep bones dense and strong.

Boron’s relationship with the parathyroid glands and hormonal regulation further supports bone integrity. Boron deficiency causes the parathyroid glands (which regulate blood calcium) to become overactive, leading to excessive parathyroid hormone releaseforestqueen2020.wordpress.com. This hormone in excess pulls calcium out of bones and into the bloodstream. The result? Demineralized bones and elevated blood calcium, which then contributes to problems like osteoporosis, osteoarthritis (by degrading joint bone surfaces), and even kidney stones or calcium deposits in soft tissuesforestqueen2020.wordpress.comforestqueen2020.wordpress.com. Boron, by preventing overactive parathyroid activity, helps keep calcium in the skeleton. It’s been noted that in boron-poor regions, older people not only have more arthritis but also more tooth decay and osteoporosis – all signs of calcium being leached from hard tissuesforestqueen2020.wordpress.com. Conversely, supplementing boron in both animals and humans tends to increase bone strength. For example, in one study, just 1–2 months of daily boron supplementation significantly improved bone density and content in rats with osteoporosis, and similar positive effects have been observed in human case studiespmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.govpmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. Autopsies of boron-treated individuals showed bones that were harder than usual – a promising sign for fracture preventionpubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov.

Another way boron aids bone health is by interacting with hormones that are pivotal for bones. Boron boosts the activity of estrogen and testosterone, two hormones that in both men and women help maintain bone density. In postmenopausal women (who have low estrogen), boron supplementation can elevate estrogen levels and also increase blood levels of active vitamin Dforestqueen2020.wordpress.compmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. Higher estrogen slows bone loss, and vitamin D helps calcium absorption – a double benefit for bones. One controlled study found that giving 3 mg/day of boron to older women raised their estrogen levels to those seen in hormone replacement therapypmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. In men, boron may have a bone-protective effect partly by raising testosterone (more on that in the next section) which can be metabolized into estrogen that nourishes bones. Research by Lara Pizzorno and colleagues summarized that boron “markedly reduces urinary excretion of calcium and magnesium and increases serum levels of estradiol (estrogen) in peri- and postmenopausal women”pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. In plain terms, boron makes the bones hold onto their minerals and maintains the hormonal signals needed to keep bones strong.

All these mechanisms translate into real-world outcomes: populations with higher boron intake not only have less arthritis, but also fewer problems with osteoporosis. One epidemiological survey cited by Newnham noted that in Israel (high boron intake), the rate of osteoporosis is significantly lower than in countries with low boron dietsforestqueen2020.wordpress.com. There is even evidence that boron can help heal bones. Animal experiments showed that boron-deficient rats had impaired healing of bone fractures, whereas boron-supplemented rats healed normallypmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. Boron apparently influences the activity of cells that rebuild bone (osteoblasts), and it modulates expression of genes and growth factors (like bone morphogenetic proteins) that drive bone regenerationpmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.govpmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. For individuals dealing with osteopenia or osteoporosis, especially if they have dietary boron insufficiency, adding a boron supplement (typically 3 mg to 6 mg daily) could thus be a beneficial adjunct to calcium, vitamin D, and other standard measures.

It’s worth noting that boron’s bone and joint benefits extend beyond just mineral metabolism – it also has analgesic (pain-reducing) properties in joints. A controlled pilot study on patients with knee osteoarthritis showed that a 6 mg/day boron supplement not only improved joint function but also reduced pain levels, compared to placebopubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. This could be due to reduced inflammation in joint tissues as discussed, or possibly boron’s effect on central pain perception. Some arthritis sufferers claim that borax gave them relief when no NSAID or analgesic would – an intriguing area that warrants more research.

Hormones, Brain Function, and Other “Biohacker” Benefits

Beyond bones and joints, boron touches many aspects of physiology – which has drawn the interest of biohackers, i.e. individuals seeking optimal health and performance through nutrition and supplements. We’ve already alluded to boron’s influence on sex hormones. This is one reason boron supplements are sometimes marketed for boosting testosterone or balancing hormones in menopause. Does the science back it up? To a degree, yes.

Boron has been shown to modulate the production and metabolism of steroid hormones. In postmenopausal women, 3 mg/day of boron not only raised estrogen, but also more than doubled blood levels of testosterone (from 0.31 ng/mL to 0.83 ng/mL on average) in one trialpmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. In older men, a week of boron (6 mg daily) resulted in a significant increase in free (unbound) testosterone by Free testosterone is the biologically active form of the hormone, and boron seems to increase it by lowering levels of sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), a protein that normally ties up testosteronepmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. In the same short study, men’s estrogen (estradiol) levels dropped by about 39% after boron supplementationpmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. This shift in the testosterone/estrogen ratio could potentially aid men who have borderline low testosterone or high estradiol. In fact, the ratios of testosterone to estrogen and free-to-bound testosterone all improved, indicating an “androgen amplifying” effect of boronpmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. These findings have made boron a minor hit in the bodybuilding and men’s health communities, with some touting it as a natural testosterone booster. However, it’s not a magic bullet – the effects can vary, and extremely high doses of boron will not keep increasing testosterone and might even be counterproductive. Most studies see the hormone benefits in the 6–10 mg per day rangeexamine.comjournals.lww.com, and higher doses are not recommended due to toxicity (boron’s tolerable upper limit is set at 20 mg/day for adultspmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov).

Another area of interest is cognitive performance and brain health. Some research suggests boron is important for brain function – so much that a low-boron diet may adversely affect mental tasks. In older adults, boron deprivation was linked to poorer performance in hand-eye coordination, memory, and attention, whereas boron supplementation improved these measurespmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. According to a review in Integrative Medicine: A Clinician’s Journal, boron “improves the brain’s electrical activity, cognitive performance, and short-term memory for elders”pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. It appears that boron is involved in maintaining healthy function of neuronal membranes and in the activity of brain enzymes. While boron is no cognitive enhancer on the order of caffeine or some nootropics, ensuring sufficient boron intake (through diet or a low-dose supplement) might help keep the brain sharp, especially in aging populations. Biohackers, always keen on boosting cognition, have taken note of these findings. It’s not uncommon on forums to see people report “mental clarity” or reduction in “brain fog” after starting a boron supplement. Given that chronic systemic inflammation can impair cognition, and since boron lowers inflammation, this connection is plausible.

Another claimed benefit in alternative health circles is heavy metal detoxification. Boron is said to help remove or neutralize toxic elements like aluminum, fluoride, and others from the body. Is there truth to this? Some studies indicate boron can protect against certain toxins. For instance, boron has been found to reduce the oxidative damage and genotoxicity caused by heavy metals like aluminummdpi.com. The mechanism may involve boron upregulating antioxidants and helping maintain cell membrane integritypmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.govpmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. Boron has also shown protective effects against pesticide-induced oxidative stresspmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. One theory is that boron forms complexes with some of these metals or influences their deposition. A specific example involves fluoride: boron (as borax) is sometimes used in home remedies to bind fluoride and help excrete it, though solid evidence in humans is scant. Nonetheless, some biohackers use borax in tiny doses as part of a “fluoride detox”, aiming to alleviate fluorosis or thyroid issues (fluoride can compete with iodine, and anecdotal reports claim borax improved symptoms of fluoride overload). Boron’s official standing here is unclear, but lab studies do show interactions between boron and fluoride in bone metabolism, and boron might mitigate some effects of excessive fluoride on bones and teeth.

Adding to its detox reputation, boron is believed by some to help purge microplastics from the body – an unproven but increasingly popular idea. The rationale is that borax, being an emulsifier and cleanser, might help break down microplastic particles or help the body eliminate them. Social media videos have even touted drinking a pinch of borax as a way to “get rid of microplastic bloating.” However, experts strongly caution that this is not supported by any scientific evidence. In fact, there’s reason to think it wouldn’t work as imagined: one study on environmental microplastics noted that if boron adheres to microplastic particles and those particles are then ingested, the boron could desorb in the body and potentially cause toxicitysciencedirect.com. In other words, combining boron with microplastics might do more harm than good internally. A YouTube science communicator put it bluntly: “No, you can’t ‘detox’ by drinking borax”youtube.com. So, while boron does have some genuine detoxifying actions (against oxidative stress, etc.), the idea that it will cleanse your body of microplastics remains unfounded. The body’s best defenses against microplastics are still being researched, and at present, borax isn’t an established part of that picture.

Antifungal, Antiparasitic, and Morgellons Disease Applications

A well-established use of boron compounds is in fighting infections – particularly fungal infections. Both borax and boric acid have potent antifungal and antiseptic propertiesforestqueen2020.wordpress.com. Long before synthetic antifungal drugs, boric acid was a common remedy for yeast infections and thrush. Notably, boric acid (usually in suppository form) is still used today in modern medicine as a treatment for vaginal yeast infections, especially recurrent or resistant Candida infections. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends boric acid suppositories (600 mg inserted vaginally each night for 2 weeks) as an effective therapy for chronic yeast infection casesmedicalnewstoday.com. Clinical studies show cure rates around 70–90% for vaginal candidiasis with boric acid – often outperforming standard antifungal drugs in stubborn casespubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. This is an important reminder that while borax/boron may be “alternative” in some uses, it’s entirely accepted in others.

For systemic or skin fungal issues, some alternative health practitioners advocate taking very diluted borax orally or using it topically. For example, candida overgrowth (systemic Candida albicans infection) has prompted some to drink borax-water solutions given borax’s antifungal nature. A typical regimen might be the same small dosages used for arthritis (on the order of 1/8 teaspoon in a liter of water sipped through the day). Users have reported improvements in yeast-related symptoms, but caution is warranted – borax is not a mainstream systemic antifungal, and high doses are poisonous. Topically, borax can be quite helpful: people use borax in foot soaks for athlete’s foot or in skin washes for fungal rashes. Its high alkalinity (pH ~9.3) and antifungal action make the environment hostile to fungi. Borax is even a traditional remedy for skin mites and parasites in veterinary and pet care. A famous “old-timer” cure for canine mange (caused by mites) involves dissolving borax in hydrogen peroxide and water and applying to the pet’s skin. This originates from “Ted from Bangkok,” an Earth Clinic contributor, who found that borax is lethal to mites but gentle enough on skin if used properlyearthclinic.com. Many pet owners swear by borax for curing mange or flea infestations (albeit externally, never feeding it to pets).

These antiparasitic effects tie into Morgellons disease, a controversial condition in which sufferers experience skin lesions, crawling sensations, and fiber-like filaments emerging from the skin. While most of the medical community considers Morgellons to be a form of delusional parasitosis, patients insist it’s a physical infection – possibly linked to bacteria, fungus, or even environmental nano-fibers. In the Morgellons community, a variety of unconventional treatments are tried, and borax figures prominently among them. Borax baths are a common Morgellons protocol: people add anywhere from a few tablespoons up to a half-cup of borax into a hot bath (often along with Epsom salts, baking soda, and apple cider vinegar) and soak for an hour. Many report that this helps “draw out” the fibers, kills pathogens in the skin, and relieves itching and crawling sensations. Borax’s role here is likely its antiparasitic and antifungal power – it can kill mites, fungus, and some bacteria on contact. Indeed, some Morgellons sufferers have found relief treating it like a parasitic infestation, and borax is part of their toolkit alongside things like sulfur soap, vinegar sprays, and tea tree oilpatents.google.com. There are also reports of Morgellons patients taking tiny oral doses of borax to fight the condition internally, under the assumption of a hidden bacterial or fungal infection. It must be stressed that these uses are not clinically validated – Morgellons has no proven cure, and while borax baths might help symptoms, they’re essentially anecdotal remedies. Still, the fact that borax can eliminate various microbes and pests is well documented. It is even used as a natural insecticide against ants, cockroaches, and termites (often combined with sugar as bait)crunchybetty.com. This wide-spectrum antipest activity makes it plausible that in certain skin conditions or infestations, borax could be beneficial externally. As always, one should be careful: borax can irritate the skin in some people (it’s drying and alkalizing), so those with sensitive skin or open wounds should exercise caution with borax baths or topicals.

Detoxification Claims: Fluoride, Microplastics, and More

We touched on microplastics and heavy metals earlier – areas where borax/boron is promoted as a detox agent. Let’s examine a few of these claims systematically, as they often come up in “biohacker” discussions alongside other fringe remedies (for example, borax has been compared to chlorine dioxide – a.k.a. MMS – another controversial substance that proponents claim can cure everything from infections to autism, but which authorities warn against).

Fluoride Detox: Boron is sometimes used to counteract fluoride toxicity. Fluoride, found in many water supplies and dental products, can in high amounts cause fluorosis (mottling of teeth, joint stiffness, etc.) and may affect thyroid function. Some alternative practitioners assert that borax binds to fluoride ions forming boron-fluoride complexes that are then excreted in urine, thereby cleansing the body of excess fluoride. There is some plausibility here: animal studies indicate that boron can reduce fluoride’s adverse effects on bone, and anecdotal human reports suggest improved symptoms (like joint pain) when using borax in fluoridated areas. One user from Mexico reported that after drinking borax in water to address possible fluoride-related health issues, their symptoms improved – they attributed this to boron’s ability to remove fluoride and “toxic bromide” from the bodyearthclinic.comearthclinic.com. Boron’s chemical properties do allow it to form complexes with ions like fluoride, and boron has an affinity for reacting with certain hydroxyl and oxide groups. However, rigorous studies in humans are lacking. We do know that boron and fluoride interact in bone metabolism: high fluoride can weaken bones, but adequate boron helps maintain bone strengthforestqueen2020.wordpress.com. If someone has fluorosis or simply wants to avoid fluoride accumulation, very low doses of borax (e.g. 1/8 teaspoon in a liter of water) taken intermittently have been suggested by some natural health websites as a detox strategy. If attempted, this should be done cautiously, as borax is not an approved ingestible substance and overdose can cause serious harm (as described below).

Microplastics Detox: This recent trend may be more myth than reality. As noted, social media posts have promoted the idea that ingesting a pinch of borax can reduce bloating and purge microplastics from your gut. The logic is presumably that since borax is a cleaning agent that can emulsify grease and break down oils, it might somehow break down hydrophobic plastic particles in the body. No scientific study to date supports this notion. Experts have debunked it, emphasizing that purposely ingesting borax will likely do far more harm than any good. An Associated Press fact-check on these claims labeled them false, stating “not only is there no evidence to support the purported health benefits, but borax can be harmful or deadly if swallowed”apnews.com. The manufacturers of borax (the well-known 20 Mule Team brand) had to issue a statement as the TikTok borax challenge went viral, urging consumers “do not ingest or bathe in this product”, as misuse can cause serious injuryapnews.com. So, while it’s true we all have microplastics in us nowadays, the solution isn’t to drink a toxin. A safer approach to microplastics is to prevent exposure and eat a detox-supporting diet (high in fiber, antioxidants, etc.) – but that is beyond our scope here.

Other Detox Claims: Borax has been floated in alternative medicine for detoxifying the pineal gland (from calcification), chelating heavy metals, and even removing “nanoparticles” or so-called Morgellons fibers. These assertions are often speculative. Boron does have intriguing chemistry: it can form complexes with mannose (a sugar) to create boron-carbohydrate compounds; it can interact with hydroxyl groups which are common in many biological molecules. There is research into boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) for cancer, where boron compounds are used to help target radiation to tumor cellspmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.govpmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. But that’s a far cry from everyday detox. It’s important to differentiate known uses from hypotheses. The known beneficial “detox” effect of boron is that it helps the body handle oxidative stress – by raising antioxidant enzymes and quenching inflammationpmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. For instance, in rats exposed to heavy metals or pesticides, supplemental boron reduced oxidative damagepmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. This systemic effect could feasibly help the body clear toxins indirectly (since inflammation and oxidative stress often accompany toxin exposure). However, boron is not a chelator like EDTA or DMSA; it isn’t proven to bind and carry heavy metals out of the body directly. So any claims that “borax clears heavy metals” should be taken with a grain of salt (or perhaps a grain of borax, but don’t eat it!).

In summary, borax/boron has some promising health effects that justify further research – its anti-inflammatory and bone-strengthening properties are real and backed by both human and animal studies. It likely plays a role in hormone regulation and maybe cognitive health. It clearly has antifungal and antimicrobial uses that are acknowledged in medicine (as with boric acid for yeast). Yet, around these kernels of truth, a lot of overarching cure-all claims have grown, some of which outpace the evidence. It’s wise to maintain a balanced skepticism, especially when people claim a single substance can “cure 30+ major illnesses”crunchybetty.com. Borax is not pixie dust; it’s a chemical that can heal or harm depending on how it’s used.

Why is Borax “Forbidden”? – Safety, Bans, and Big Pharma

Borax’s status is unique: it’s a common household item, but when it comes to ingesting it or marketing it for health, virtually all health authorities strongly advise against it. In fact, borax is banned as a food additive in the United States, Australia, and much of Europecrunchybetty.comcrunchybetty.com. Regulatory agencies classify borax and boric acid as toxic substances – specifically, as reproductive toxins that can cause developmental harm to an unborn child if a woman is exposed to high levels during pregnancycrunchybetty.comcrunchybetty.com. The European Chemicals Agency placed borax on its “Substances of Very High Concern” list in 2010, effectively barring its sale to consumers for uses like DIY cleaning or health remediescrunchybetty.comcrunchybetty.com. This means in the EU, you generally cannot buy borax in shops; substitutes are sold for cleaning purposes. In the U.S., while you can readily buy borax in the laundry aisle, any use of it in food or supplements is illegal. The FDA considers boron compounds not Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) for food, due to toxicity at relatively low thresholds.

What exactly are the safety concerns? It’s important to acknowledge that borax can be harmful or fatal if misused. Dose makes the poison. In small doses (a few milligrams of boron), it’s likely harmless for most adults – as evidenced by the studies and anecdotes above. But in larger quantities, borax will cause acute poisoning. Ingesting even a few grams of borax powder can lead to severe nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrheawebmd.com. Higher doses affect the kidneys (potentially causing kidney failure), the nervous system, and can send the body into shockwebmd.com. Chronic high exposure to borax – say, regularly inhaling the dust or using it on skin – can cause rashes, respiratory irritation, and has been linked to reduced sperm count and fertility in maleswebmd.comwebmd.com. Because of these effects, the fatal dose of boric acid in adults is estimated around 15-20 grams, and much less for children (possibly 5 grams can be lethal to a child). These are not huge amounts; thus public health agencies err on the side of caution by forbidding dietary borax use altogether.

Critics argue that the toxicity of borax is overstated. They point out that borax’s median lethal dose (LD₅₀) is about equal to or only slightly higher than that of table salt – meaning gram-for-gram, borax is about as toxic as salt in animal studies. For example, one often-cited statement is “borax has half the toxicity of table salt”crunchybetty.com (this is a bit exaggerated; salt’s LD₅₀ in rats is ~3000 mg/kg, borax is ~2500 mg/kg, so borax is slightly more toxic than salt by weight). Regardless, both salt and borax can kill in large amounts. The difference is, nobody is likely to accidentally eat 20 tablespoons of salt in one go, but a curious toddler or a misguided adult might ingest a cup of borax trying a “TikTok challenge.” That genuine risk is why poison control centers issue strong warnings. As one toxicologist put it, “If a person is ingesting borax for a health issue, they should be prepared for bigger health issues than the one they are trying to improve.”apnews.com In other words, the cure can be worse than the disease if done incorrectly.

Another reason borax is “forbidden” is the lack of official nutritional recognition for boron. No Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) exists for boron. There’s only an upper limit (UL) of 20 mg/day for adults, set to prevent adverse effectspmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. The absence of formal dietary requirements implies that regulators don’t see boron as essential – thus supplementing is viewed as unnecessary for the general population. Mainstream medicine holds that people get enough boron from a normal diet and that deficiencies severe enough to cause illness are rare (though Newnham and others would disagree, citing widespread low-level deficiency). It doesn’t help borax’s case that it’s often promoted in tandem with conspiracy-laden narratives. When advocates claim borax “cures cancer” or “decalcifies the pineal gland,” it invites regulatory scrutiny and skepticism. The FDA has cracked down on companies or individuals selling borax products with medical claims, as it is not an approved drug or supplement ingredient.

However, many in the alternative health community believe there is more to the story – that borax was banned not purely for safety, but to eliminate competition for pharmaceutical drugs. They point to cases like Dr. Newnham’s in Australia, or the fact that borax was once used in place of expensive antifungals, as evidence of an economic motive. Indeed, internal documents or historical accounts are hard to come by, but it is suggestive that Australia’s ban in 1981 coincided with Newnham’s arthritis tablets becoming popular. Commenters note “the pharmaceutical companies got borax banned in Australia when Rex Newnham discovered it cured arthritis … they seemingly bribed the government to ban it”crunchybetty.com. Other outspoken proponents claim “The EU and FDA have banned it because it had been used as an arthritis cure, taking vast amounts of money from the pharmaceutical and health care industry”crunchybetty.com. These assertions, while unproven, resonate with those who feel natural remedies are often suppressed. The case of chlorine dioxide (MMS) is often brought up as a parallel – a substance that some hailed as a cheap cure-all (for infections, inflammation, etc.) but was harshly condemned and banned by authorities as toxic bleach. Borax, they argue, is much safer than MMS and yet has faced a similar campaign to discourage its use.

It is beyond our scope to determine the validity of such conspiracy theories. What can be said is that boron research does not receive much funding or attention. Boron is a non-patentable, inexpensive mineral – not a novel drug that could drive profit. Nutritional science tends to focus on vitamins and minerals deemed essential; boron, being outside that list, languished in semi-obscurity. There is growing evidence (as we have presented) that boron is quite beneficial and possibly essential, but because of the earlier toxicity concerns and regulatory stance, it’s been hard to get human trials approved or to develop supplements legally. Only recently have some countries begun allowing low-dose boron supplements: for instance, in the U.S. you can find “Boron” vitamins (usually 3 mg capsules of boron from calcium fructoborate or boron amino acid complexes) sold in health stores. These slip through as dietary supplements (since boron itself is a dietary mineral and such products avoid using the word “borax”). In Europe, getting a boron supplement is harder due to the regulations, though one could obtain boron in the form of calcium fructoborate in some multivitamins.

To recap: Borax is “forbidden” by regulators because of legitimate safety issues at higher doses, and because they deem it unnecessary as a nutrient. From the perspective of those who use borax medicinally, it feels forbidden because they cannot openly obtain or recommend it without facing warnings or even legal repercussions. This tension has unfortunately led to a lot of conflicting information online. On one side, you have official agencies and experts saying, “There is absolutely no need to ingest borax to get boron. You can get all the boron you need from a normal diet – it’s in fruits, nuts, even beer and coffee”apnews.com. (Indeed, a cup of coffee or a glass of red wine each contains about 0.5–1 mg of boron naturally.) On the other side, you have individuals saying, “Modern farming and processed foods have left us boron deficient, causing widespread arthritis and osteoporosis that Big Pharma profits from. A little borax could save you a lot of pain and money.” Both sides agree on one thing: indiscriminate use of borax is dangerous. The middle ground would be acknowledging boron’s importance and perhaps focusing on safe ways to get it – such as through diet or carefully formulated supplements – rather than taking scoops of laundry detergent.

Common Borax/Boron Protocols in Alternative Health

For those curious about how people actually use borax or boron for health, below are a few of the most common protocols or methods reported. These are not endorsements, but a description of practices one may encounter in anecdotal reports. If one chooses to experiment, extreme caution and consultation with a healthcare professional is advised.

As the table above illustrates, the dosing when borax is used is typically very dilute – on the order of a few hundred milligrams of borax in a liter of water, or a bath tub, etc. This is crucial; people have hurt themselves by misreading protocols (for instance, someone took 1 tablespoon of borax instead of 1/8 teaspoon and ended up in the hospital). Another point is that many protocols incorporate breaks (off-days) to prevent accumulation or tolerance. Boron is rapidly excreted, but taking any mineral every single day long-term can potentially cause imbalances. Some opt to get their boron naturally by eating raisins, prunes, almonds, and other boron-rich foods – a safter “protocol” that still boosts boron intake.

Conclusion

Borax and boron occupy a fascinating and controversial space in health and wellness. On one hand, boron is undeniably a beneficial trace nutrient: research consistently shows it supports bone density, improves arthritis symptoms, influences hormone levels, and even boosts cognitive function in the elderlypmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.govpmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. Borax, as a source of boron, has demonstrated antifungal and antiseptic powers that have been harnessed both in folk remedies and conventional medical treatments (like boric acid for yeast infections). The mineral has helped people with conditions ranging from osteoarthritis to perhaps even autoimmune issues, according to emerging evidence and patient testimonies. These could be life-changing benefits, especially considering the diseases in question – arthritis and osteoporosis – affect millions and are not always adequately managed by standard pharmaceuticals.

On the other hand, borax is a double-edged sword. It is toxic in higher doses and can be dangerous if used improperly. The same substance that might relieve joint pain could also send someone to the emergency room if they take too much. Regulatory agencies chose to err on the side of public safety by barring borax for internal use, and this has limited the officially available knowledge and applications of boron in medicine. As is often the case, the truth is nuanced. Borax is not an FDA-approved cure for anything – but boron, the element it contains, is a nutrient with real, important effects on our biology. The “forbidden” health benefits of borax might be better termed the overlooked benefits of boron.

For educated adults reading this, the takeaway should be a balanced understanding. Boron is worth ensuring in your diet, whether through food or a small supplement, especially if you have issues with bones, joints, or want to support healthy aging. But turning to your laundry detergent for a health fix is fraught with hazards. If you do choose to experiment with borax (as some do out of desperation or curiosity), do so with respect for the chemical: minuscule doses, careful measurement, and close attention to your body’s response. Always consider safer alternatives first (like a 3 mg boron pill, which can be obtained from supplement companies that operate within legal bounds).

Ultimately, the saga of borax and boron underscores a few big lessons in health science: not everything “natural” is completely safe; not everything “toxic” is devoid of benefit; and many potentially valuable remedies can fall through the cracks due to economic or regulatory forces. As research on boron continues (and it is continuing, slowly – scientists are exploring boron in cancer therapy, bone healing, and cognitive health), we may see a shift in how this mineral is regarded. Perhaps boron will one day be officially classed as “essential for humans,” and low-dose boron supplementation will become routine for preventive health, much like vitamin D or magnesium. In the meantime, borax will likely remain a fringe ally – praised by those who have experienced relief, and cautioned against by those concerned about misuse.

Knowledge is empowerment: if you understand both the potential and the risks, you can make an informed decision. For those intrigued by borax’s forbidden health benefits, hopefully this article provided a clear, evidence-based overview that demystifies the topic. As always, consultation with a knowledgeable healthcare provider is prudent before undertaking any off-label remedy. Borax is not a panacea, but neither is it merely a poison. It’s a tool – one that must be handled with care and respect. With that perspective, one can navigate the borax debate without bias or fear, grounded in scientific facts as well as awareness of the unknowns.

Finally, a note on perspective: it’s somewhat ironic that a substance as old-fashioned as borax (used since the 19th century for cleaning) is now at the cutting edge of internet health discussions. It shows how health wisdom can sometimes skip a generation and be reborn in unexpected ways. What was once a common home remedy (borax was used in tiny amounts as a food preservative and medicinal wash long ago) became taboo, only to be rediscovered by a subset of people looking for alternatives to modern drugs. History may eventually vindicate some of borax’s uses – or it may not. In either case, the curiosity and critical thinking that lead us to question and explore “forbidden” topics are valuable, as long as we temper them with scientific rigor and personal caution.

Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Borax/boron remedies have not been FDA-approved for medical treatment. If you have a health condition like arthritis or osteoporosis, consult a licensed healthcare professional before considering any supplement or alternative therapy. Improper use of borax can cause serious harm. Always do thorough research and exercise caution with any “experimental” health approach.

Ian Kain
Wellness Thrive Designer
📞 Phone: +52 958 115 2683
📧 Email: wellness@natoorales.com
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