Boron

The exact role of boron in humans is still not well understood. Boron is associated with human bone building and brain function by helping retain calcium and magnesium. A U.S. Department of Agriculture study of post-menopausal women showed that supplemental boron significantly reduced excretion of calcium and activated estrogen and vitamin D. Early research has also linked increased Boron intake to a significant reduction in prostate cancer rates. Boron also contributes to increased bone density and reduction arthritis, likely by preventing the loss of calcium and magnesium.

Elevated levels of Boron have been correlated in patients with depression.

Boron is present in only 0.001% of the earth’s crust (with 72% of the world’s Boron reserves being found in Turkey) and can be found in abundance in apples, pears and grapes, when grown in nutrient balanced soil and ground water throughout the world. Elemental boron has uses as in the semiconductor industry, while boron compounds play important roles as light structural materials, insecticides and preservatives, and reagents for chemical synthesis.