Borax
or boric acid is a white crystalline solid which is
slightly acidic in nature. It is derived from the
chemical element, Boron. Boric acid is made by combining
borax and sulfuric acid. It is normally used as an
insecticide, fire retardant, and in manufacture of glass
and ceramics. It also acts as a mild colon cleanse and
more specifically acts against yeast infections. Boric
acid combined with water is a very mild antiseptic. It
has a very low acid content and has been used for a
century to ease burns, scrapes, and all types of skin
irritations. It cleanses wounds and speeds healing. Borax helps
restore alkaline pH in the vagina and skin surfaces,
which inhibits yeast
infections.
The
yeast, Candida albicans is a part of the normal flora of
the human body and lives harmlessly in small numbers
along with other bacteria like Lactobacillus, which
keeps the Candida under control. Change in balance of
the Lactobacillus and Candida causes overgrowth of
Candida leading to yeast infection. Despite the
availability of antifungal medications for treatment of
yeast infections, many doctors prefer borax in
conjunction with standard drugs. Many over-the-counter
creams used for Candida infection e.g. Vagisil contain
borax as the active ingredient. Many homeopaths too
prescribe borax especially for vaginal yeast infections
where the discharge resembles egg white and usually
appears midway between menstrual periods. It is used in
very high dilutions at which negative effects are not
possible. Borax powder inserted into stockings and socks
is used to prevent athlete’s foot.
While
borax vaginal suppositories are available in pharmacies,
they can be made at home too by filling 00 capsules with
boric acid. They are inserted deep into the vagina twice
a day for five to seven days to get rid of vaginal yeast
infection. Potential side effects like excessive vaginal
discharge, discomfort, and burning in the vaginal area
may be seen in some women. Studies showed borax to have
higher or comparative cure rate than either itraconazole
or fluconazole. It has been also shown to have a success
rate of 77% for Candida glabrata as against 50% with
topical and oral antifungal
medications.
Boric
acid is toxic and should never be taken internally or
placed on open cuts or wounds. It should not be used for
a prolonged period of time and that too within amounts
recommended. It should not be used by pregnant women or
applied to the skin of infants or
children.
Borax and other antifungal medications will only get rid of the symptoms not the yeast infection. To prevent recurrent episodes of yeast infection it is an excellent option to see a holistic practitioner. He will help you understand why the yeast infection occurred in the first place and how to develop health so that yeast and other pathogens will not cross your path again.
