Boric Acid Salt: Effects, Uses and Safety
Boric acid salts are chemical compounds derived from boric acid, used in medicine, pharmacy, and industry. They have antimicrobial properties and are applied in wound care, eye rinsing, and antifungal treatments.
Things worth knowing about "Boric acid salt"
Boric acid salts are chemical compounds derived from boric acid, used in medicine, pharmacy, and industry. They have antimicrobial properties and are applied in wound care, eye rinsing, and antifungal treatments.
What Are Boric Acid Salts?
Boric acid salts, commonly referred to as borates, are inorganic compounds formed by the reaction of boric acid (H₃BO₃) with bases. The most well-known borate is sodium tetraborate, also called borax (Na₂B₄O₇). These compounds occur naturally in soil, mineral water, and certain foods. In medicine and pharmacy, they are valued for their antimicrobial and buffering properties.
Chemical Properties
Boric acid salts are based on the element boron, a metalloid that does not occur in pure form in nature. In aqueous solution, borates release borate ions that can interact with biological molecules such as sugars and proteins. Common examples include:
- Sodium borate (Borax): Sodium tetraborate decahydrate, widely used in cleaning and preservative products
- Potassium borate: Used as a buffering agent in laboratory settings
- Ammonium borate: Applied in technical and industrial uses
- Zinc borate: Used as a flame retardant in industrial applications
Medical Applications
Boric acid salts have a long history in medicine. Their main areas of application include:
Antimicrobial Activity
Borates inhibit the growth of bacteria, fungi, and some viruses. Borax and boric acid solutions were historically used for wound disinfection and mucosal treatment. In modern medicine, their use has decreased as more effective antiseptics have become available.
Eye and Mucous Membrane Care
Diluted borax solutions were traditionally used as eye rinses. They have a mildly alkaline pH and can soothe irritated eyes. Today, they have largely been replaced by modern, better-tolerated eye drops in many countries.
Vaginal Infections
In gynecology, boric acid vaginal suppositories are used in some countries to treat recurrent vaginal yeast infections (particularly caused by Candida glabrata) and bacterial vaginosis when standard therapies fail. This is done exclusively under medical supervision.
Dermatological Use
As a mild antiseptic compound, borate salts were used to treat skin infections, minor burns, and eczema. These applications have largely been replaced by modern preparations.
Mechanism of Action
Boric acid salts exert their antimicrobial effects through several mechanisms:
- Inhibition of enzymes essential for the metabolism of microorganisms
- Disruption of cell wall synthesis in fungi and bacteria
- Interaction with ribose and other sugars, impairing RNA function in microorganisms
- Increased osmotic pressure that damages microbial cells
Occurrence in Food and as an Additive
Boric acid and its salts (e.g., E284 boric acid, E285 sodium tetraborate) are approved as food additives in the European Union but only for a very limited number of specific products such as certain types of caviar. In most food products, boron compounds are prohibited, as they can be toxic at higher doses.
Safety, Toxicity, and Risks
Boric acid salts are considered relatively safe when applied topically in low concentrations. However, excessive absorption through the skin, ingestion, or inhalation can lead to toxic effects:
- Acute poisoning: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, seizures
- Chronic exposure: Kidney damage, liver damage, effects on the nervous system
- Reproductive toxicity: Animal studies indicate negative effects on fertility and development; borax is classified as reproductively toxic (Category 1B) in the EU
- Children and infants are particularly sensitive to borate compounds
The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has classified borax (sodium tetraborate) as a Substance of Very High Concern (SVHC). Its use in consumer products is strictly limited in the EU.
Industrial and Technical Uses
Beyond medical applications, boric acid salts are used in various industries:
- Glass production: Borosilicate glass (e.g., laboratory glassware, cookware) contains boron compounds to improve heat resistance
- Ceramics and enamel: Improved adhesion and thermal stability
- Detergents: Sodium perborate as a bleaching agent in laundry detergents
- Flame retardants: Zinc borate used in plastics and wood products
- Cosmetics: Small amounts as a pH buffer and preservative (strictly regulated in the EU)
References
- European Chemicals Agency (ECHA): Substance Information - Disodium tetraborate. echa.europa.eu, accessed 2024.
- World Health Organization (WHO): Boron in Drinking-water. Background document for development of WHO Guidelines for Drinking-water Quality. WHO/SDE/WSH/03.04/54, Geneva 2003.
- Iavazzo C, Gkegkes ID, Zarkada IM, Falagas ME: Boric Acid for Recurrent Vulvovaginal Candidiasis: The Clinical Evidence. Journal of Women's Health, 2011;20(8):1245-1255.
Building Blocks for a Healthy Life
As an integrated manufacturer, we develop & produce evidence-based, patented, and non-patented formulations. We work exclusively with plant and natural extracts according to the strictest purity & quality standards.
The combination of science & modern technology with the laws of nature creates solutions consistently tailored to humans – for the highest good: health.
Most purchased products
For your iron balance
Specially formulated for your iron balance with plant-based curry leaf iron, Lactoferrin CLN®, and natural Vitamin C from rose hips.
For your universal protection
As one of the most valuable proteins in the body, lactoferrin is a natural component of the immune system.
For Healthy Oral Flora & Dental Care
Formulated lozenges with Dentalac®, lactic acid bacteria, and Lactoferrin CLN®Most read entries
3 Posts in this encyclopedia categoryMagnesiumcarbonat
Calorie content
Cologne list
Related search terms: Boric acid salt