Boric acid is a widespread mineral found in a variety of environments, from seawater to soil. However, when we talk about boric acid used as an insecticide, we are referring to the chemical compound extracted and purified from boron-rich deposits near volcanic regions and arid lakes. Although boric acid is widely used as an herbicide, its mineral form is found in many plants and virtually all fruits.
In this article, we’ll explore how boric acid fights pests, how to use it safely, and more, led by two certified entomologists, Dr. Wyatt West and Dr. Nancy Troiano, and Bernie Holst III, CEO of Horizon Pest Control in Midland Park, New Jersey.
Boric acid is a compound consisting of elemental boron. It is most commonly used in pesticides, herbicides, fungicides, preservatives, and flame retardants. It is sometimes also called orthoboric acid, hydroboric acid, or borate.
As an insecticide, it is primarily used to kill cockroaches, ants, silverfish, termites, and fleas. As an herbicide, it is most effective against mold, fungi, and some weeds.
When insects come into contact with boric acid, it adheres to their bodies. They ingest the boric acid, cleaning themselves. Boric acid disrupts their digestive function and affects their nervous system. Because boric acid requires a certain amount of time to accumulate in the insect’s body, its effects may take several days or even longer to begin.
Boric acid can kill any arthropod that ingests it (insects, spiders, ticks, millipedes). However, boric acid is likely consumed only by arthropods that groom themselves, so it may be ineffective against spiders, millipedes, and ticks. Boric acid can also be used to scratch the exoskeleton of insects, weakening their ability to retain water. West stated that if this is the goal, more effective methods exist.
Boric acid products come in a variety of forms, including powders, gels, and tablets. “Boric acid is typically used in pesticides,” West added.
First, decide whether you’ll use gel, powder, tablets, or traps. This depends on the pest species, as well as the location and environmental conditions where you’ll be applying the pesticide.
It’s crucial to read and follow the instructions carefully. Boric acid is toxic and can be harmful to people and pets. “Increasing the dosage doesn’t necessarily mean better results,” says Holster. For optimal results, it’s important to:
Holster said, “Use common sense. Don’t use products outdoors before rain. Also, don’t spray or use granular products near bodies of water, as they can be carried away by currents, and rainwater can carry granular products into the water.”
Yes and no. When used correctly, boric acid can be a safe pest control agent, but it should never be inhaled or ingested.
West said, “Boric acid is one of the safest pesticides available. We must remember that, ultimately, all pesticides are toxic, but the risk is minimal when used correctly. Always follow label instructions! Don’t take unnecessary risks.”
Note: If you have come into contact with this product, follow the directions on the label and call a poison control center at 1-800-222-1222 for further advice.
This is generally true. “Boric acid is naturally found in soil, water, and plants, so in that sense it’s a ‘green’ product,” Holster said. “However, in certain formulas and dosages, it can be harmful to plants.”
Although plants naturally absorb small amounts of boric acid, even slight increases in soil levels can be toxic to them. Therefore, adding boric acid to plants or soil can disrupt the balance of boric acid in the soil as a nutrient and herbicide.
It’s worth noting that boric acid does not emit harmful gases into the atmosphere. It is considered to be very low toxicity to most birds, fish, and amphibians.
”This is, of course, unusual for pesticides,” West said. “However, I would not use any compounds containing boron derivatives indiscriminately. Any excess of acceptable levels is harmful to the environment.”
If you’re looking for an alternative to pesticides, there are many eco-friendly options. Essential oils such as diatomaceous earth, neem, peppermint, thyme, and rosemary, as well as homemade insecticidal soap, are all natural ways to combat pests. Furthermore, maintaining a healthy garden also helps with pest control, as more plant growth encourages the production of insect-repellent chemicals.
Other safe pest control methods include burning wood, spraying vinegar along ant trails, or pouring boiling water over ant nests.
West said, “They’re two completely different substances. Borax is generally not as effective as an insecticide as boric acid. If you’re going to buy one of them, boric acid is the better choice.”
That’s true, but why bother? When using boric acid at home, it needs to be mixed with something that attracts pests. That’s why some people mix it with powdered sugar or other ingredients.
”I recommend buying a ready-made lure rather than wasting time making one yourself,” West said. “I don’t know how much time and money you’ll save by making your own.”
Moreover, the wrong formula can be counterproductive. “If the formula is incorrect, it won’t be effective against certain pests. While it may solve some problems, it will never completely eradicate the pests,” said Dr. Nancy Troiano, a board-certified entomologist.
Ready-to-use boric acid-based insecticides are safe, easy to use, and have precise dosages, eliminating mixing issues.
Yes, but only in small quantities. ABC Termite Control claims that boric acid is safer than many fast-acting chemical insecticides because it doesn’t kill pests instantly.
Post time: Nov-13-2025