Boronis a little-studied mineral. It has similarities to carbon but its chemical behavior resembles that of silicon. It occurs naturally in its oxidized form of borate and, although rare, in the Earth's crust it is concentrated in water and is found mainly in volcanic spring waters. About 100 borate compounds are known.
Boron is a trace element essential to plant life. It has recently been found to be useful for human and animal health, particularly in the regulation of calcium and bone metabolism, but is not yet recognized as essential. Boron is mainly concentrated in the bones, spleen, and thyroid in humans, and excesses are excreted in the urine. Boron has also been shown to be beneficial for many processes of life on Earth, including embryogenesis, bone growth and maintenance, immune function, insulin and steroid hormone metabolism, psychomotor skills, and cognitive functions.
History
In 1777, boric acid was discovered in hot springs near Florence, Italy, being known as sal sedativum — with recognizable medical benefits. It was not until 1997 that it was used as a dietary supplement.
Boron has multiple industrial uses, including in glass, magnets, cleaning agents, bleaches, insecticides, and in medicine, and is an essential plant nutrient for maintaining the integrity of cell walls. Boron is present in foods and beverages as inorganic borates and when ingested, it is hydrolyzed to boric acid in the intestine. Boron does not accumulate significantly in body tissues, but bones, nails, and hair have the highest levels, and fat has the lowest levels. Boric acid is the major form in blood, urine, and other body fluids. It is excreted primarily in urine but also in feces, sweat, breath, and bile. Although little is known about its metabolism, 85 to 95 percent of dietary intake is absorbed, and the body appears to maintain boron homeostasis.
Therapeutic uses
Musculoskeletal
Boron is necessary for calcium and bone metabolism and has been shown to prevent bone loss associated with osteoporosis. In postmenopausal women, boron significantly reduces urinary calcium excretion and increases estrogen and testosterone levels. Boron also plays an important role in the metabolism of magnesium and vitamin D, increasing both bioavailability and half-life, thereby helping to prevent caries.
This bone-strengthening function also applies to teeth, so boron supplements have been shown to reduce tooth decay.
Anti-inflammatory
Boron supplementation decreases inflammatory markers (high sensitivity) CRP (a marker of cardiovascular risk and other chronic diseases) and TNF.
Neurological
Low levels of boron reduce brain electrical activity, so supplementation improves performance in motor speed and dexterity, attention span, and short-term memory. Even short periods of low boron levels adversely affect brain function and cognitive performance. Boron also reduces heavy metal toxicity, which negatively impacts brain function.
Cancer
Research has shown that boron inhibits angiogenesis and induces apoptosis in cancer cells. It is also effective against cervical, breast and lung cancers, multiple myeloma and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Boron inhibits the proliferation of prostate cancer cells in men.
Antimicrobial
Boron has antibacterial, antiviral, antiprotozoal, and antifungal properties and is often a component of medical antibiotics. Mild solutions of boric acid have been used as an eye antiseptic. Boron is also used as a clarifier in swimming pool water treatments.
Food sources of boron
You can find boron in leafy green vegetables, fruits, and nuts. Avocados and raisins are particularly rich in boron, as are prunes, pecans, peanuts, and chocolate powder.
Doses
A dose of 3 mg of boron per day is generally considered essential, but a dose of 6 to 20 mg has been used for research. However, be aware that high doses of boron can also be toxic and are associated with cell damage and toxicity.
Article featured in WellBeing 211 Magazine
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