Boric Acid for Ticks

Boric acid kills ticks.

Since ticks usually live outdoors and away from the home, it can be difficult to protect yourself and pets from potentially life-threatening tick bites. Boric acid offers a relatively non-toxic way to protect your home and yard from tick infestations. Does this Spark an idea?

Function

Boric acid kills ticks by sticking to their legs and causing dehydration and poisoning of the food supply when they return to the colony.

Identification

Many commercial tick and other insect control products contain boric acid as the "secret ingredient." This naturally white, powdery substance is odorless and more environmentally friendly than most insecticides.

Geography

Sprinkle boric acid in your home and yard or places where you know ticks are located. By creating a layer that ticks must crawl over, you will ensure the substance will reach the nervous system.

Considerations

Apply boric acid to an embedded tick to kill and remove the tick. Boric acid also works as a disinfectant and wound healing agent once the tick is removed.

Warning

While boric acid is a relatively nontoxic chemical, it may damage or kill plants and plant roots. It is also toxic when consumed in large doses by children and animals.

References

• Als Home Improvement Center: Boric Acid Natures Insecticide
• Ask the Exterminator: Boric Acid
• Beyond Pesticides: Boric Acid