Does Boric Acid Kill Probiotics? Yes, Be Careful

Boric acid is a chemical compound often used for its antifungal and antiseptic properties, capable of inhibiting the growth of various fungi and bacteria but it is not a probiotic.

Probiotics are live microorganisms that, when consumed in adequate amounts, provide health benefits by promoting a balanced and beneficial gut microbiota.

Boric acid may kill certain probiotic bacteria and be useful for candida infections but more research is needed to confirm both of these claims.

What Is Boric Acid?

Boric acid is a chemical compound composed of boron, oxygen, and hydrogen, often used for its antiseptic and preservative properties. It may also be referred to as hydrogen orthoborate. Boric acid is found in nature and has various applications, including use as a pesticide, fireproofing agent for wood, preservative, antiseptic, and in the manufacturing of glass, pottery, and enamels. It's water-soluble, claimed to have antifungal properties, and is used in medical dressings and salves.

Moreover, boric acid is sometimes used for vaginal suppositories to help maintain vaginal pH balance and treat yeast infections. A boric acid vaginal suppository is a medication designed to restore and maintain a balanced vaginal acidity. It serves as a treatment for vaginal yeast infections by alleviating symptoms like itching and burning. Proper usage according to the instructions on the label is essential for safe administration. Boric acid powder is a fine substance composed of boron, oxygen, and hydrogen, commonly used for its antiseptic and preservative properties.

Does Boric Acid Kill Probiotics?

It is not currently known if boric acid can kill probiotics based on current research but Boric Acid does have antibacterial properties which suggest it may kill probiotic bacteria. Boric acid has  varying effects against different strains of recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis ( bacteria according to a 2011 study authored by C Iavazzo.

A 2015 study authored by MZ Mullins, did not explicitly state whether boric acid kills bacteria but focused on evaluating the effectiveness of intravaginal boric acid compared to antibiotics in treating bacterial vaginosis.

While boric acid has shown effectiveness against various infections, the study's primary focus is on its comparative efficacy for treating bacterial vaginosis symptoms rather than directly addressing its bacterial-killing properties.

Does Boric Acid Kill Candida?

Yes, Boric Acid at either 3% or 5% can kill Candida infections according to several studies. Boric acid can kill Candida by inhibiting its growth and disrupting its development, preventing it from thriving and causing infections. Candida is a type of yeast that can cause infections in humans, commonly affecting the skin, mouth, throat, and genital areas.

A 2021 study authored by Q Liu, examined the impact of a 3% boric acid solution on cutaneous Candida albicans infections in mice and its effects on skin microflora. Boric acid treatment significantly reduced skin injury and promoted wound healing, with an effectiveness rate of 83% compared to 25% in the control group. The boric acid solution inhibited the growth of Candida albicans and CA, decreased skin microbial diversity while maintaining richness, and improved the balance of skin microflora.

A 2022 study authored by X Guo, investigated the effects of 5% boric acid gel on vaginal Candida albicans infections and the local immune system in mice. The results showed that boric acid gel reduced symptoms associated with CA vaginal infection, inhibited CA growth, promoted the secretion of antifungal Th1 and Th17 cytokines, and reduced Th2 cytokines.

Is Boric Acid Or Probiotics Better For Candida?

Probiotics play a significant role in combating Candida infections by employing several mechanisms and are better than boric acid. These live microorganisms reintroduce beneficial bacteria into the gut, which helps restore a healthy microbial balance and counteracts the overgrowth of Candida. Probiotics also regulate stomach acidity, creating an environment less favorable for Candida's growth. They enhance the immune system's response, aiding in the body's defense against Candida overgrowth. Probiotics secrete capric acid, a substance known for its antifungal properties that can inhibit Candida growth. Additionally, by populating the gut with beneficial bacteria, probiotics effectively displace Candida populations, further reducing their ability to thrive. These combined actions contribute to the therapeutic potential of probiotics in managing Candida infections.

Does Boric Acid Have Probiotics?

No, Boric Acid does not have probiotics. It contains boron, oxygen, and hydrogen which are not probiotic bacteria. Some Boric Acid suppositories do contain Lactobacillus probiotics as added ingredients but this does not mean that Boric Acid it's self is a probiotic.