Borax, also known as sodium borate is a widely used mineral in the industry, as it has several utilities. Moreover, due to its antiseptic, anti-fungal, antiviral and slightly antibacterial properties, it has several health benefits and can be used to treat skin infections, otitis or disinfect wounds, for example.
1. Treatment of mycoses
Due to its fungicidal properties, sodium borate can be used in the treatment of mycoses, such as athlete's foot or candidiasis, for example in solutions and ointments. To treat mycoses, solutions or ointments containing boric acid should be applied thinly, 2 times a day.
2. Skin lesions
Boric acid is also effective in relieving symptoms related to cracking, dry skin, sunburn, insect bites and other skin conditions. In addition, it can also be used in the treatment of minor wounds and skin lesions caused by Herpes simplex. Ointments containing boric acid should be applied to the lesions 1 to 2 times a day.
3. Mouthwash
As the boric acid has antiseptic and antimicrobial properties can be diluted in water to be used with mouthwash to treat mouth and tongue wounds, disinfect the oral cavity, preventing the onset of cavities.
4. Treatment of Otitis
Due to the bacteriostatic and fungistatic properties, boric acid can be used to treat middle and external otitis and in the postoperative ear. Generally, to apply to the ear, saturated alcoholic solutions with boric acid or at 2% concentration, which can be applied to the affected ear, 3 to 6 drops, are allowed to act for about 5 minutes every 3 hours for about 7 to 10 days.
5. Preparation of bath salts
Borax can also be used to prepare bath salts, as it leaves the skin smoother and softer. Here's how to make bath salts in your home.
Besides these benefits, sodium borate is also very important for the maintenance of bones and joints, since boron contributes to the regulation of the absorption and metabolism of calcium, magnesium and phosphorus. If there is a deficiency in boron, the teeth and bones become weaker and may occur osteoporosis, arthritis and dental caries.
Who should not use and what care to take
Sodium borate is contraindicated in children under 3 years of age and should not be used for a long time because it may be absorbed into the bloodstream and cause toxicity and should not be prolonged for more than 2 to 4 weeks.
In addition, it should also not be used in people who are hypersensitive to boric acid or other components contained in the formula.
Possible side effects
In case of poisoning, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, rash, central nervous system depression, seizures and fever may occur.
