Reviewed by the Scan Dose Research Team and Clinical Advisory Board
Boron
MODERATE EVIDENCEMineralLast updated April 2026
SCAN DOSE SUMMARY
Boron is an ultra-trace mineral with emerging evidence for bone health, testosterone support, and cognitive function. Our research shows it influences calcium, magnesium, and vitamin D metabolism, and may modestly increase free testosterone by reducing SHBG — but the evidence base is thin and mostly observational. It's cheap, safe at low doses, and likely beneficial for people with inadequate dietary intake.
EVIDENCE GRADES
Bone mineral density (postmenopausal women)Moderate — observational + interventional
B-
Testosterone (free testosterone via SHBG reduction)Limited — small studies (PMID: 21129941)
C+
Cognitive functionDeprivation studies show impairment; supplementation data weak
Vitamin D metabolismMay increase 25(OH)D levels when boron-depleted
C+
WHAT IT DOES
Boron influences the metabolism of calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and vitamin D. It inhibits the hydroxylase enzymes that deactivate 17β-estradiol and vitamin D, effectively extending their half-lives. Boron also reduces SHBG (sex hormone-binding globulin), which increases free testosterone — though the magnitude is modest.
Dietary boron comes from fruits, vegetables, nuts, and legumes. Average dietary intake is 1-3mg/day. The proposed adequate intake is 1-13mg/day depending on the source.
OPTIMAL DOSAGE
General support: 3-6mg/day
Bone health: 3-6mg/day (combined with calcium, D, and magnesium)