Boron Citrate
Boron citrate is a mineral compound that contains boron and citric acid. It is used as a dietary supplement to provide the body with boron, which is essential for healthy bones, wound healing, and the production and metabolism of sex steroids and vitamin D. Boron citrate is also believed to have anti-inflammatory effects that can help alleviate arthritis.
Benefits
Studies have shown that boron supplementation can increase mean trabecular density and thickness, trabecular bone volume, and cortical bone volume of femurs. Boron supplementation of 3 mg/day is recommended for individuals who are consuming a diet lacking in fruits and vegetables or who are at risk for or have osteopenia, osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, or breast, prostate, or lung cancer. Boron supplementation has also been found to increase free testosterone levels in the body by up to 25%.
Case Studies
A 1990 study found that a 3% boric acid treatment on deep wounds improved wound healing. Another study found that boron supplementation increased mean trabecular density and thickness, trabecular bone volume, and cortical bone volume of femurs.
Dosage
The lowest active dose of boron supplementation appears to be 3mg, which is effective in supporting hormonal parameters in postmenopausal women. Studies on osteoarthritis have used 6mg of Boron. The World Health Organization estimates that an “acceptable safe range” of boron intakes for adults is 1–13 mg/day.
Side Effects
Boron is generally safe when taken in appropriate doses. However, high doses of boron can cause adverse effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, rashes, headaches, and convulsions. Very high amounts of boron can cause death. In rare instances, individuals may experience dry skin, diarrhea, feelings of nausea, or vomiting. If these symptoms persist, please contact a healthcare professional immediately.
Sources:
- https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Boron-citrate
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4712861/
- https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/2156587211407638
- https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Boron-Consumer/
- https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Boron-HealthProfessional/
- https://www.americanelements.com/boron-citrate-74231-02-0
- https://www.verywellhealth.com/the-benefits-of-boron-89548
- https://examine.com/supplements/boron/
- https://www.traceminerals.com/blogs/post/boron-supplement-benefits-side-effects-and-dosage
