Boric acid is an over-the-counter remedy with antifungal, antiseptic and antiviral actions that may help in treating infections. Made from borate minerals and sulphuric acid through a recrystallization process, the chemical substance is white and odorless. Don't use boric acid to treat any kind of infection before first talking with your physician.
Uses
Boric acid may help to treat a yeast infection or vaginitis, according to the University of Michigan Health System. It is also sometimes used to treat cold sores. If you have a vaginal yeast infection, consult your doctor before using boric acid as a treatment to discuss the potential dangers and proper application.
Application
Boric acid comes in the form of an ointment, powder or suppository. For a vaginal yeast infection, you would most likely use boric acid suppositories, notes MayoClinic.com. The typical dosage is a 600-mg capsule of boric acid inserted into the vagina nightly for about 2 weeks, says the University of Michigan Health System. For treating cold sores, apply an ointment containing 4-percent boric acid four times per day. Ask your health care provider about the dosage that's right for you before using boric acid.
Alternatives
Instead of boric acid, you could use home remedies like a vinegar douche, garlic suppositories or tea tree oil creams to treat your vaginal yeast infection, according to MayoClinic.com. Other natural remedies for yeast infections include pomegranate gel, echinacea juice and pau d'arco bark tea douche. Conventional treatments for yeast infections include over-the-counter or prescription antifungal tablets, creams and suppositories like fluconazole, miconazole, clotrimazole or ticonazole. Discuss with your doctor these treatment options along with boric acid before using any remedy for your infection.
Side Effects
Although boric acid doesn't usually cause side effects when used for vaginitis or vaginal yeast infections, you could experience toxicity symptoms if you use it too much or incorrectly, warns the University of Michigan Health System. Toxicity symptoms can include nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, kidney damage, circulatory system failure and dermatitis.
Warnings
Ingesting boric acid or using too much of it topically can cause poisoning that can be fatal. Don't ingest boric acid or apply it to broken skin or wounds, warns the University of Michigan Health System. Also, don't use boric acid suppositories if you're pregnant, or use it on children, due to the risk of toxicity.
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