marzo 05, 2021 3 min read

Effectiveness of Boric Acid in Treating Fungal and Bacterial Infection

Boric acid is a derivative of Boron and is an antifungal cure. It cures many fungal infections, athlete’s foot and vaginal yeast infections. B.A is also a prime ingredient of eyewash used for eye irritations. It is a natural pesticide too. However, experts recommend not to use it unnecessarily.

 What Is Boric Acid?

Boric acid is a white, crystalline powder; derived from Boron and water. It acts as an antibiotic against fungi and bacteria. Its formula is H3BO3. It also treats boron deficiencies in plants. It is present in various products. Some of them are enamels, skin lotions, paints and antiseptics.

Boric Acid vs Borax

The purpose of both B.A and borax is the same, which is pest control. However, both are different as boric acid’s first preparatory source is borax.

Benefits

Some of the prime benefits are:

  1. Yeast Infections

B.A is a very effective treatment for vaginal yeast infections. According to CDC reports, it eradicates 70% of the contamination causing agents.

  1. Roach Killer

It is an effective remedy to get rid of cockroaches. Cockroaches respond towards it, and boric acid kills them. It also kills ants, fleas and other parasites. 

  1. Eyewash

It creates an easy eyewash when diluted with water. It treats bacterial infection in the eyes and soothes inflammation.

  1. Acne

As B.A is antibacterial, so it is suitable for treating acne-prone skin. It kills bacteria causing breakouts. However, its usage irritates the skin.

  1. Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is a fungal disease, which is curable by boric acid. Its powder can clear minor infections and itching of an athlete’s foot. It neutralizes foot odor too. It changes the pH of the skin and removes dead skin.

  1. Household Cleaner

It has multiple uses when it comes to house cleaning. B.A acts as a stain remover, deodorizer and mold killer. B.A also has exceptional stain-fighting power, thus used for laundry wash.

 How to Use

Boric acid suppositories treat yeast infections. Moreover, for boric acid eyewash, a B.A mixture with sterilized water is the general recommendation. After that, the eyewash is for washing eyes. A blend of B.A and rubbing alcohol treat the athlete’s foot. 

As a pesticide, sprinkle it on the area where cockroaches are more likely to come. It also acts as a stain remover when added to the regular laundry load. It is readily available in grocery stores. However, ensure its safe usage.

 Recipes

Two of the widely used recipes of boric acid are for yeast infections and athlete’s foot.

 Vaginal Yeast Infection Recipe

Firstly, mix 600mg of B.A with a size 0 gelatin capsule. Insert the suppository in the vagina for seven consecutive days.

 Athlete’s Foot Recipe

Mix 2 teaspoons of B.A with 1 cup of rubbing alcohol. Apply it directly on feet with cotton swabs.

 Is Boric Acid Toxic?

Is B.A toxic? The answer to this question depends on its correct and safe usage. The death rate in infants is high due to B.A. Therefore, some precautions are necessary while having it.

  • Avoid using it on open mouth, children and by swallowing.
  • Pregnant women should avoid using it for vaginal infections as it irritates.
  • Careful monitoring while using it with contact lenses
  • Consult a doctor in case of irritation.
  • Avoid direct skin contact with boric acid.

 

Although boric acid is a potent antifungal and pesticide, still its exposure needs monitoring. Therefore, it is advisable to observe its usage.