Boric Acid

Boric acid and its borate salts were first registered for use in 1948. These compounds are forms of the naturally occurring element boron. They can be found in rocks, plants, soil, and water. Boric acid and borate salts work against pests in a variety of ways allowing for a wide range of uses, including uses as insecticides, herbicides, algaecides, and fungicides.

Information about Boric Acid

• What is boric acid?
• What are some products that contain boric acid?
• How does boric acid work?
• How might I be exposed to boric acid
• What are some signs and symptoms from a brief exposure to boric acid?
• What happens to boric acid when it enter the body?
• Is boric acid likely to contribute to the development of cancer?
• Has anyone studied non-cancer effects from long-term exposure to boric acid?
• Are children more sensitive to boric acid than adults?
• What happens to boric acid in the environment?
• Can boric acid affect birds, fish, and other wildlife?

Boric Acid Fact Sheet (Web | PDF)

Cockroaches (Information | FAQ)

Borate Wood Preservative

If you have questions about this, or any pesticide-related topic, please call NPIC at 800-858-7378 (8:00am - 12:00pm PST), or email at npic@ace.orst.edu.