Boric Acid Eye Wash

Boric acid is a very weak acid but is used as an antiseptic for minor burns or cuts and is sometimes used in dressings or salves. It is also applied in a very dilute solution as an eye wash in a 1.5% solution (1 tbsp per quart or 15 cm3 per L) of sterilized water. Borates, including boric acid, have been used since the time of the Greeks for cleaning, preserving food, and other activities.

An eye wash made with boric acid is very beneficial in fighting eye infections, irritation from foreign particles in the eye or contact lenses, air pollution (smog). It is very soothing. Basically, boric acid creates an inhospitable environment in the eye for germs and bacteria. At the same time, it cleanses and sooths the eye.

Purchase boric acid powder at your local pharmacy. Ask the pharmacist for "medicinal" boric acid powder.

Make a solution of one quart of water and one tablespoon of medicinal grade boric acid (or 3/4 teaspoon per cup). Boil the mixture for one minute to sterilize the water; allow to cool. Use with a clean washcloth or cotton ball three or four times daily; allow to dry, then rinse gently. An eye cup is also useful for rinsing eyes.

Do not use on infants. Boric acid solutions used as an eye wash or on abraded skin are known to be especially toxic to infants, especially after repeated use because of its slow elimination rate.

Other Uses

Acne: As an anti-bacterial compound, boric acid can also be used as an acne treatment.

Yeast and Fungal Infections: Boric acid can be used to treat yeast and fungal infections such as candidiasis (vaginal yeast infections) by inserting a vaginal suppository containing 600 mg of boric acid daily for 14 days or for yeast infection of the male pubic region (jock-itch or strong genital odor) by applying the powder to the skin all over the pubic region for several days to a week.

Athlete's Foot: It is also used as prevention of athlete's foot, by inserting powder in the socks or stockings, and in solution can be used to treat some kinds of otitis externa (ear infection) in both humans and animals.