Boron

About Boron

Boron is a chemical element with atomic number 5, a metalloid that occurs in nature mainly as borate minerals such as borax. It is an essential micronutrient for plants, where it cross links pectin in cell walls. Its role in human nutrition is less clear. Research beginning in the 1980s at the United States Department of Agriculture suggested that boron influences the metabolism of calcium, magnesium, and vitamin D and may affect steroid hormones such as estrogen and testosterone, prompting interest in bone health. Small studies have also linked low boron intake with poorer performance on some cognitive tasks. Boron is not formally classified as essential for humans and no recommended intake exists, though upper intake levels have been set because high intakes are toxic. Rich food sources include raisins, prunes, almonds, avocados, other fruits, nuts, and legumes, as well as wine. Vaginal boric acid is used to treat some yeast infections, particularly those caused by non albicans Candida species. Boric acid and borax are poisonous if swallowed in quantity.