The mineral boron helps with bone growth, joint mobility, and hormone balance.

It’s found naturally in many foods.

In contrast, sodium borate contains boron but is not safe to consume.

Death Valley salt flats, a source of sodium borate

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Sodium borate is widely used in cleaning products, cosmetics, and personal care products.

What Is Sodium Borate?

Sodium borate is a naturally-occurring compound made ofboron, oxygen, hydrogen, and sodium.

Most sodium borate found in the United States comes from the seasonal lakes in the Mojave Desert in California.

Sodium borateis a naturally occurring substance made up of boron, oxygen, hydrogen, and sodium.

It is not safe to consume.

It is not safe to consume and can be toxic if ingested.

Boric acidis a boron compound but is more refined and processed than borax.

Like borax it is not safe to consume and can be toxic if ingested.

What is Boron?

It is also available as a dietary supplement.

Although boron deficiency is rare, it has been linked to abnormal bone development and bone strength.

Borax is also used in making DIY slime that kids like to play with.

Although large amounts of borax could be unsafe, the amount used in DIY slime is considered safe.

If youre concerned, look for slime recipes that use cornstarch or other non-irritating ingredients.

Contact your healthcare provider if you experience any side effects from sodium borate.

Ohio State University.The benefits of boron, and why you shouldn’t look for it in borax.

National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements.Boron.

Pizzorno L.Nothing boring about boron.Integr Med (Encinitas).

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Science Direct.Borate sodium.

Cosmetic Ingredient Review September 2020.Quick Reference Table.

National Pesticide Information Center.Boric acid.

Stanford Childrens Hospital.Slime Time: Is It Safe for Kids?

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Borates, tetra, sodium salts (anhydrous).