Boron Overview
Boron is a metalloid element that is found in small quantities in the Earth’s crust. It has a variety of industrial and commercial uses, including its use as a dopant in semiconductors, an additive in glass and ceramics, and a reagent in the production of boric acid. Boron is also used in some medical applications, such as the treatment of osteoarthritis.
Boron was first isolated in 1808 by Sir Humphry Davy, who observed its unique properties while working with boric acid. The element’s name comes from the Latin word for food, boris. Boron is not found free in nature; instead, it exists combined with other elements, such as oxygen, in a variety of minerals.
The most common minerals that contain boron are tourmaline, kernite, and ulexite. Boron is also found in coal and petroleum deposits. The world’s largest known boron deposit is in Turkey.
Boron is used in a number of industrial applications. One of its primary uses is as a dopant in semiconductors. Boron-doped silicon is used to create n-type semiconductors, which are an important component in the manufacturing of electronic devices such as transistors and diodes.
Boron is also used as an additive in glass and ceramics. Its addition to glass increases its durability and resistance to heat. Boron-containing ceramics are used in a variety of applications, such as electrical insulation and bulletproof vests.
Boric acid, which is produced by the reaction of boron with water, is another important commercial product that contains boron. Boric acid is used as an insecticide, a wood preservative, and a fire retardant. It is also used in some medical applications, such as the treatment of osteoarthritis.
Boron is a relatively non-toxic element; however, exposure to high concentrations of boron can cause irritation to the skin and eyes. Ingestion of large amounts of boric acid can be fatal.
Boron Uses
Boron is a trace mineral that is found in small quantities in the human body. It is estimated that the average person has between 2 and 3 grams of boron in their body. Boron is not considered an essential nutrient, as the body does not require it for any known biological function.
However, some research suggests that boron may play a role in bone health and cognitive function. Boron supplements are sometimes marketed as a way to improve these conditions, but there is limited scientific evidence to support these claims.
Boron supplements are available in a variety of forms, including tablets, capsules, and powders. They can also be found in some multivitamin and mineral products. Boron supplements are generally considered safe when taken in recommended doses.
Boron Side Effects
Possible side effects of boron supplements include stomach upset, diarrhea, and vomiting. High doses of boron can also cause kidney damage. Boron supplements should be used with caution in people with kidney disease or other medical conditions.
Pregnant women and young children should avoid taking boron supplements. There is not enough scientific evidence to determine whether boron supplements are safe for these groups of people.
Boron Supplements for Bone Health
Some research suggests that boron may play a role in bone health. Boron is thought to help the body absorb calcium and magnesium, two minerals that are important for bone health.
Boron is also thought to increase levels of vitamin D, which helps the body absorb calcium.
A few small studies have found that boron supplements may improve bone density in postmenopausal women and elderly men. However, these studies are too small to prove that boron definitely has these effects.
More research is needed to determine whether boron supplements can improve bone health in people who do not have a deficiency of this mineral.
Boron Supplements for Cognitive Function
Some research suggests that boron may play a role in cognitive function. Boron is thought to help the body absorb and use vitamin D and magnesium, two minerals that are important for cognitive function.
A few small studies have found that boron supplements may improve thinking skills in healthy adults and people with Alzheimer’s disease. However, these studies are too small to prove that boron definitely has these effects.
More research is needed to determine whether boron supplements can improve cognitive function in people who do not have a deficiency of this mineral.
The Bottom Line
Boron is a trace mineral that is found in small quantities in the human body. It is not considered an essential nutrient, as the body does not require it for any known biological function.
However, some research suggests that boron may play a role in bone health and cognitive function. Boron supplements are sometimes marketed as a way to improve these conditions, but there is limited scientific evidence to support these claims.
Boron supplements are generally considered safe when taken in recommended doses. However, pregnant women and young children should avoid taking these supplements. There is not enough scientific evidence to determine whether boron supplements are safe for these groups of people.
If you’re considering taking a boron supplement, talk to your healthcare provider first to discuss whether this is right for you.
