Boron: A Review of its Nutritional Interactions and Therapeutic Uses

Boron is a trace mineral which is found in highest amounts in fruits, vegetables, nuts, and legumes. Although it has not been demonstrated unequivocally to be an essential nutrient for humans, increasing evidence indicates that boron deficiency and supplementation exert measurable biological effects. Boron has been shown to impact mineral metabolism, brain function and performance, and selected hormone levels. Because of its impact on mineral metabolism and hormones associated with bone formation, boron supplementation is considered to be important in the prevention of osteoporosis. Epidemiological evidence suggests that adequate boron in the diet may also prevent arthritis. Limited clinical observations support a possible role for boron in the treatment of this condition. (Alt Med Rev 1997;2(1):48-56)