Medicinal

• Due to its mild antiseptic and antibacterial properties, boric acid is used to cleanse and treat minor cuts and burns. It is also used as an eye wash when diluted sufficiently to make a weak solution. It has been used in diaper rash creams and ointments. Boric acid appears in commercial preparations such as contact lens solutions and anti-aging products. It can be used to treat vaginal yeast infections.
  
  

Pesticide

• Boric acid is used to kill a variety of insects including fleas, ants, roaches, centipedes, bed bugs, ticks and even termites. It's a common ingredient in most commercial insecticides. Some people use boric acid with other ingredients such as flour and/or sugar to rid their homes of an insect problem. Boric acid kills insects such as cockroaches by causing their bodies to dehydrate.
  
  

Flame-Resistant Products

• Boric acid reduces combustion and inhibits the release of combustible gases in some materials. It also strengthens the ability of certain products to better withstand flame exposure. It is used in mattresses, insulation, and upholstered furniture, plastic and other products.
  
  

More Uses

• Boric acid is used in fiberglass, glass, light bulbs and insulation. It is also used in swimming pools as a substitute for chlorine. You may find it in wood preservative and adhesive, and in ceramic and enamel coatings. It is a herbicide for crops, orchards and plants. Boric acid is also used in industrial cleaning as a chemical solvent.
  
  

Warning

• Boric acid is poisonous and should never be ingested. Avoid contact with mucous membranes. Boric acid is often used in homes as an insecticide---people may sprinkle it on carpets or use it in cracks to exterminate insects---but it should be noted that boric acid is toxic to pets if they ingest it. Young children could also accidentally ingest the substance. Products containing boric acid should be stored out of the reach of children to prevent accidental poisoning.