Borax toxicity

Boron. The principal materials used are borax [1303-96-4] sodium pentaborate, sodium tetraborate, partially dehydrated borates, boric acid [10043-35-3] and boron frits. Soil appHcation rates of boron for vegetable crops and alfalfa are usually in the range of 0.5—3 kg/hm. Lower rates are used for more sensitive crops. Both soil and foHar appHcation are practiced but soil appHcations remain effective longer. Boron toxicity is not often observed in field appHcations (see Boron compounds). 

Weight loss after 1 week on borax diet, or 2 weeks on boric acid diet toxic signs after 3 weeks on both diets (24)... 

Considerations for the acceptability of the are similar to those for the uncertainty factor used to calculate the RfD, RfC or other reference values from the NOAEL or BMD. The has been calculated from reproductive toxicity data for several chemicals. Examples include dinoseb (US EPA, 1986), lithium (Moore, 1995) and boric acid and borax (Moore, 1997). In the case of dinoseb, the MOEs were very low, in some cases less than one, indicating toxicity in the animal studies at levels to which people are exposed. This information on dinoseb led to an emergency suspension of use of this pesticide in the USA in 1986 and ultimately led to its removal from the market (Kimmel Kimmel, 1994,1996). 

Moore JA (1997) An assessment of boric acid and borax using the IEHR evaluative process for assessing human developmental and reproductive toxicity of agents. Expert Scientific Committee. Reprod Toxicol, 11 123-160. 

Be sure to use the least toxic (fragrance free) detergents possible, and, of course, always avoid chlorine-based bleaches. Natural laundry detergents (which often contain borax), and natural bleaches are available (more and more often right in your grocery store) from brands like Ecover and Seventh Generation, as well as the Web sites below. (While were on the subject of clothes, take whatever hand-me-downs are offered, and don t be shy about asking for more. Most people are thrilled for the chance to recycle.)... 

Borax must not be taken internally. Borax is very toxic to the nervous system, the kidneys and the liver. It can be absorbed through damaged skin, and when it comes in contact with skin it can cause sensitive reactions. Inhaling the powder can also irritate the airways, among other things. If you want to use... 

The combination of borax with lemon is also a good, strong alternative. A paste of lemon juice and borax is an excellent substance with which to clean the toilet bowl (apply pulp, let it soak for two hours, and scrub with toilet brush). Borax is also a good product for bleaching and disinfecting. Do not, however, confuse borax with baking soda When consumed or inhaled, borax is very toxic. (Also see entry 161). 

Borates are not toxic to mammals but are slightly toxic to fish, the acute oral lDj values for rats are borate (meta), 2330 mg/kg, borate (octa), 2000 mg/kg, and borax, 556 mg/kg. For infant rats the lethal dose is 5-6 g. 

Cenerol description Borox is a white solid it cannot burn it is mildly toxic — exposure should be ovoided. It is not considered to be a reactive chemical. Borax is used in woter solution with detergents in "cleoning compounds" it is olso used os o flux — to dissolve metal oxideS etc. — in brazing and welding. 

Gordon V (1987) The case of the toxic life-preserver. Borax Rev No 2 10-12. 

Borax A useful mold and mildew remover and disinfectant, borax is also an effective water softener and can be used to whiten clothes. Use it sparingly on its own, mixed with a little water, or add some soap flakes. While it is a good cleaning product, use it with caution around children because, unlike baking soda, it is toxic if swallowed. Wear rubber gloves when using borax. 

Both borax and boric acid are used as mild antiseptics and are not regarded as toxic boron hydrides are however highly toxic. 

It is thought that borate ester cross-linking of pectin is necessary for the normal growth and development of higher plants. Thus, a deficiency of boron leads to the effects described above. Application of borate fertilizers such as borax (Na2[B405(0H)4] 8H20) to crops is therefore important. A balance has to be sought, however, because an excess of boron can be toxic to plants, and cereal crops are especially sensitive. 

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