Why is everyone on TikTok going crazy for boron? What to know about the supplement

What is “boron?” And why does TikTok tell me that I need to be taking a boron supplement? (Spoiler alert: I definitely do not.)

According to the NIH, boron is a trace element that can be found naturally in our foods. In plants, boron appears to be a structural component of cell walls and it is required for plant growth, pollination and the formation of seeds.

However, it is not considered an essential nutrient in humans. To understand the buzz around boron, we spoke to some experts to go over what the potential benefits of boron might be and the risks that may come of taking a supplement.

What are the benefits of taking boron?

There may not be any. The research providing any support that boron supplementation is beneficial is limited. Studies have shown that even with an increase in oral consumption, the amount in the body remains largely the same, suggesting the body has a homeostatic (balance) mechanism for boron, probably by excreting excess amounts in urine, feces, sweat or breath.

There is some anecdotal evidence that it may be beneficial for bone health, but further research is needed to draw concrete conclusions.

What is boron found in?

Boron is found in borax (sodium borate), a common ingredient in household cleaners – but it is EXTREMELY important that you do not consume these cleaners. While it may be a TikTok trend for treating arthritis and other chronic pain, borax can be very harmful if consumed. Symptoms of boron toxicity include:

• Headache

• Hypothermia

• Restlessness

• Weariness

• Renal injury

• Dermatitis

• Alopecia

• Anorexia

Symptoms relating to the ingestion of borax include:

• Nausea

• Gastrointestinal discomfort

• Vomiting

• Diarrhea

• Skin flushing

• Rash

• Excitation

• Convulsions

• Depression

• Vascular collapse

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When it comes to boron, there are a few key takeaways:

Further research is needed to determine:

1. What boron does in human bodies

2. Whether or not supplementation provides any benefit.

Intake from food and water is unlikely to be harmful.

Supplementation or consuming borax may have very dangerous and detrimental consequences.

If you are concerned about any deficiency or if you are looking for ways to treat chronic pain, ask your doctor about what evidence-based options you may have.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: What is boron? Understand the supplement, side effects and dangers