Boric acid can be an effective way to treat vaginitis. Vaginitis is an inflammation of the vagina caused by bacteria, yeast, parasites or viruses. Candida, a yeast-like fungus, is responsible for 40 percent of all types of vaginitis. Boric acid is an odorless, crystalline powder available over the counter and primarily used as a topical antiseptic or a suppository. In addition, boric acid is used to treat ear infections, cold sores and eye problems. Boric acid is available in gel capsule form at pharmacies and health food stores. The dosage for vaginitis is one 600 mg capsule of boric acid inserted intravaginally every evening for 10 to 14 days.
Boric Acid Function For BV-
Exactly how boric acid works in the treatment of vaginitis is still undetermined. It has been suggested that the fungistatic activity may be mediated by vaginal acidification, resulting in fungal cell wall penetration and disruption of the fungal cell membrane. Conversely, studies evaluating the minimum inhibitory concentration of boric acid indicate that boric acid works at a pH similar to that of the untreated vaginal tract, and, therefore, the action may not be simply due to an increase in acidity.
Boric Acid Side Effects-
Although side effects are rare, boric acid may cause vaginal burning and itching. But if boric acid enters the bloodstream through a cut, the potential for side effects including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dermatitis and kidney damage increases.
Boric Acid Research-
A study done in 1991 concluded that boric acid is an effective treatment for vaginitis. Boric acid was effective in curing 98 percent of the patients who had previously failed to respond to the most commonly used anti-fungal agents and was clearly indicated as the treatment of choice for prophylaxis.