INTRODUCTION:
Borax, also known as Sohaga or Suhaga, is a natural mineral that looks like white powder or crystals. It is used in cleaning products, glass making, and also in traditional medicines like Ayurveda and Unani. After purification (Shodhan), it is used to treat cough, mouth ulcers, and some women’s health issues. Raw borax is harmful, so it should only be used under expert guidance.
English: Borax
Hindi: Suhaga / Sohaga (सुहागा)
Sanskrit: Tankana
Urdu: Suhaga (سہاگہ)
Arabic: Al-Tankar
Tamil: Vengaram
Telugu: Vankaram
Malayalam: Venkāram
Kannada: Benkaram
Gujarati: Suhāgo
Marathi: Suhāga
Bengali: Subaga
Punjabi: Suhāga
HEALTH BENEFITS:
Natural Cleaning Agent
Borax is an effective and eco-friendly cleaner that can be used to remove stains, grease, and grime.
Laundry Booster
It enhances the cleaning power of laundry detergents, helping to remove tough stains and odors.
Antifungal Properties
Borax helps to prevent mold and mildew growth on surfaces, making it useful for bathrooms and damp areas.
Insect Repellent
It can be used as a natural pest control agent to deter ants, cockroaches, and other insects.
Deodorizer
Borax neutralizes odors in carpets, refrigerators, trash cans, and more.
Water Softener
It softens hard water, improving the effectiveness of soaps and detergents.
Preserves Freshness of Flowers
Adding borax to water can help cut flowers last longer by preventing bacterial growth.
Rust Remover
Borax mixed with lemon juice or vinegar can help remove rust stains from metal and other surfaces.
Slime and DIY Projects
It’s commonly used as a key ingredient in homemade slime and other craft projects.
Fungicide in Gardening
Borax can be used to treat fungal infections on plants, improving garden health
SIDE EFFECTS:
Gastrointestinal issues:
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, and a blue-green coloration of vomit or stool.
Skin problems:
A red, “boiled lobster”-like skin rash, which can be followed by skin loss.
Organ damage:
Ingesting large amounts can lead to kidney failure, liver dysfunction, and shock.
Reproductive issues:
High exposure is believed to disrupt hormones and may impair male and female fertility and reproductive organs.
Central nervous system effects:
Severe poisoning can result in seizures, confusion, coma, and death.
HOW TO USE:
Laundry Booster
- Add 1/2 cup of borax to your washing machine along with your regular detergent.
- It helps whiten clothes, remove stains, and soften water.
General Cleaner
- Mix 1/2 cup of borax with 1 gallon of warm water.
- Use this solution to clean countertops, sinks, tubs, and floors.
- Wipe with a sponge or cloth, then rinse.
Deodorizer for Carpets
- Sprinkle dry borax powder lightly over the carpet.
- Let it sit for 15-30 minutes.
- Vacuum thoroughly to remove odors and dirt.
Insect Control
- Sprinkle borax powder near entry points, baseboards, or where you see ants or cockroaches.
- Keep away from pets and children, as it can be toxic if ingested.
Mold and Mildew Cleaner
- Mix borax with water (1/2 cup borax in 1 gallon water).
- Scrub moldy areas with the solution, then let dry.
- No rinsing necessary because borax prevents mold from returning.
Rust Stain Remover
- Make a paste with borax and lemon juice or vinegar.
- Apply to the rust stain, leave for about 30 minutes.
- Scrub gently and rinse.
Safety Tips:
Always wear gloves when handling borax.
Keep out of reach of children and pets.
Avoid ingesting borax.
Use in well-ventilated areas.
