We came across an alarming trend on social media where Borax is being touted as a natural remedy for various ailments such as inflammation and arthritis. Multiple social media users across various platforms such as Facebook, TikTok, and Twitter are promoting ingesting Borax or soaking in a Borax solution to detox their bodies.
What is Borax?
Borax, also known as sodium borate or sodium tetraborate, is a boron-containing compound that is commonly found in household cleaning products such as laundry detergent. It has also been used to make slime, a rather popular toy in recent years.
Sodium borate is considered a hazardous substance in Singapore and is permitted for use in certain products such as cleaning products and medication in limited quantities.
Why Borax?
An article on the benefits of Borax, cited by one Facebook user promoting Borax as a miracle cure for various ailments, highlights that Borax is a naturally occurring compound high in boron. The article claims that Borax’s high boron content is an effective treatment for arthritis and other bone-related problems.
Boron is an element that is naturally present in certain foods such as leafy green vegetables and grains. Some studies suggest that boron supplements may improve symptoms of arthritis, although more research is necessary to support this. Further, while there have been studies conducted on rats and cells in vitro, there is minimal clinical evidence to support the claim that boron reduces inflammation in humans.
Moreover, there is no recommended dietary allowance for boron. The World Health Organisation has stated that an acceptable safe range would be between 1 – 13mg per day. Most people obtain sufficient levels of boron through their diets alone.
Is Borax safe for consumption?
Many social media posts promoting Borax for consumption or detoxification purposes show a Borax box by the brand 20 Mule Team.
20 Mule Team Borax is intended to be used as a laundry booster and multi-purpose cleaner. The packaging of the product states that it is not to be taken internally. Its website also clearly states that its product is not intended for consumption, for bathing or to be applied on one’s skin.
While Borax may contain boron, it is not the same as a boron supplement. Scientists are also studying if the compounds in sodium borate could help with conditions such as arthritis although more research is necessary to determine its safety and efficacy.
Borax sold as laundry boosters or household cleaners has been tested and deemed safe as cleaning agents, especially when used with the appropriate safety precautions. However, it does not mean that it is safe for consumption, despite being a naturally occurring compound. These Borax products have also not been tested and approved for oral consumption or topical application.
Additionally, many experts have warned that consuming or topically applying such Borax products could lead to various side effects such as abdominal pain, vomiting, and peeling skin. Exposure to large amounts of Borax could cause organ damage, serious poisoning, and even death. The fatal dose of Borax for children is approximately 5-10g while the fatal dose for humans is approximately 10-25g.
Therefore, it is not true that Borax is a cure for multiple ailments. Household cleaning products containing Borax should not be ingested or used for soaking oneself. Following medical advice obtained through social media could be dangerous and it would be prudent to always consult a licensed doctor before starting on any supplements.
