Boric Acid & Yeast Infections

Yeast infections are caused when a bacterium known as Candida overpopulates in the body. Candida is a naturally occurring bacteria in the intestine. In instances when the immune system is compromised, the bacteria will begin to form strands and enter the bloodstream traveling throughout various areas of the body.

The Facts

Boric acid is a chemical with natural antiseptic and anti-fungal attributes. Boric acid is becoming a commonly accepted cure for yeast infections, athlete's foot, and with certain types of ear infections.

Studies

One study published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology evaluated the effectiveness of a topical treatment with boric acid compared to oral treatment with the anti-fungal drug itraconazole (Sporanox) in 22 women with recurrent yeast infection. Upon the conclusion of the study, Boric Acid was found to be as effective as Sporanox.

In another study published in the 2007 edition of Diabetes Care, 112 diabetic patients with re-occurring yeast infections were given either a single 150 milligram dose of the oral medication fluconazole (Diflucan) or boric acid vaginal suppositories (600 milligrams a day for 14 days). It was held that boric acid vaginal suppositories resulted in a higher cure rate (63.6%) compared to fluconazole (28.8%).

Advantages

Boric acid is natural and safe when used vaginally or topically. Given that it does not enter the blood stream, it only kills the bacteria overgrowth, not all bacteria in the body. Such a focused method ensures that the bacteria will not build up an immunity to the borax.

Dangers

Boric acid is harmful when taken orally or placed on open wounds. It cannot be taken by children or pregnant women, as in some cases toxicity has resulted. If too large of an amount is taken, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and kidney damage can result. It is vital to only use the recommended amount.

Suggested Use

Vaginal suppositories are accepted as a safe use. The suppositories should be inserted with clean hands into the vaginal opening. Once inserted, lay flat for at least 5 minutes to allow the suppository to melt and absorb into the infected area.

References

• Ray D, Goswami R, Banerjee U, Dadhwal V, Goswami D, Mandal P, Sreenivas V, Kochupillai N. Prevalence of Candida glabrata and Its Response to Boric Acid Vaginal Suppositories in Comparison With Oral Fluconazole in Patients With Diabetes and Vulvovaginal Candidiasis. Diabetes Care. 30.2 (2007): 312-317.
• Guaschino S, De Seta F, Sartore A, Ricci G, De Santo D, Piccoli M, Alberico S. Am J Obstet Gynecol. 184.4 (2001): 598-602.
• Taoofherbs.com