Fact Check: "Borax is lethal for humans"
What We Know
Borax, also known as sodium borate, is a compound that has various applications, including use as a cleaning agent and insecticide. The toxicity of borax and its related compounds, such as boric acid, has been the subject of various studies. According to a study on boron toxicity, skin exposure to boric acid has been fatal in some cases, indicating that high levels of exposure can lead to severe health effects. Additionally, the National Pesticide Information Center states that while boric acid is generally low in toxicity when ingested or in contact with skin, it can be corrosive to the eyes and irritating to the skin.
The Toxicological Profile for Boron indicates that high doses of boron can lead to adverse health effects, including liver toxicity and jaundice. Furthermore, ingestion of large amounts of boric acid can result in serious symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and even neurological effects in infants, including convulsions and confusion.
Analysis
The claim that "Borax is lethal for humans" is nuanced. While it is true that high doses of borax or boric acid can be harmful and potentially fatal, the context of exposure is critical. The Boric Acid Fact Sheet notes that boric acid can kill insects and disrupt their nervous systems, which supports the idea that it can be toxic. However, the same source emphasizes that boric acid is considered low in toxicity for humans under normal exposure conditions.
Moreover, a Healthline article discusses the adverse health effects associated with borax, including irritation and potential toxicity, but it does not categorically state that borax is lethal in typical scenarios. The Dr. Axe article also highlights that ingestion and inhalation of borax can lead to significant health issues but does not provide evidence of lethality in non-extreme cases.
The reliability of the sources varies. Peer-reviewed studies and government health profiles (like those from the National Pesticide Information Center and the Toxicological Profile for Boron) are generally more credible than anecdotal reports or less formal publications.
Conclusion
The claim that "Borax is lethal for humans" is Partially True. While borax can indeed be toxic and potentially lethal at high doses or with significant exposure, it is not universally lethal under normal circumstances. The effects of borax depend on the amount and method of exposure, as well as individual susceptibility. Therefore, while caution is warranted when handling borax, especially in large quantities or in sensitive populations, it is not accurate to label it as outright lethal in all cases.
Sources
- Toxicity of boric acid, borax and other boron containing compounds
- HEALTH EFFECTS - Toxicological Profile for Boron
- Boric Acid Fact Sheet - NPIC
- Boric Acid Fact Sheet - National Pesticide Information Center
- Is Borax Safe: To Ingest, For Kids, on Skin, and More
- Is Borax Safe? Popular Uses, Side Effects and Dangers - Dr. Axe
- Is borax safe? Uses and risks
