Boron

Despite that fact that healers have for centuries touted the health benefits salts rich in boron, little was known about this essential trace minerals role in human health until the 1980s.

Boron, known to be lacking in New Zealand and Australian soils, plays many different roles in the body. It is well recognised that areas throughout the world that are low in boron soil levels experience high rates of bone, joint and hormonal disorders, whilst countries with high or adequate levels of boron experience much lower rates of these conditions. Two areas where boron seems particularly supportive are bone health and menopause.

Thought to be an activator of numerous enzyme systems and body functions, boron is known to support the production and activation of oestrogen, testosterone and vitamin D, enhance absorption of calcium and magnesium and also play a vital role in brain function.

The U.S. Department of agriculture conducted an experiment in which postmenopausal women took 3mg of boron a day. The results showed that supplemental boron reduced excretion of calcium by 44%. These results are especially important for New Zealanders as most do not receive adequate boron through there daily diet.