Boric Acid As a Bug Deterrent

History

• Boric acid was first registered in 1948 as a pesticide, or bug deterrent, in the United States. It was re-registered in 1993.
  
  

Expert Insight

• According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), boric acid, along with its sodium salts, occurs naturally in the environment.
  
  

Considerations

• The EPA has also determined that boric acid is relatively nontoxic to certain wildlife (birds, fish and aquatic invertebrates) and beneficial insects (such as ladybugs and lacewings), and does not "pose reasonable risks or adverse effects" to human beings or the environment.
  
  

Effects

• As a bug deterrent, boric acid acts as a stomach poison in ants, cockroaches, silverfish and termites. It also erodes the exoskeletons of insects.
  
  

Function

• The nationwide household advice column "Heloise Hints" recommends using boric acid as a bug deterrent by applying it (along with an equal part mixture of sugar, cornmeal or flour) into hard-to-reach corners and cracks.
  
  

Caution

• Boric acid can harm small children and pets if consumed in large amounts or several times in small quantities.