How is boron toxic, yet it can be supplemented?

Question

As it says in the title, I have a question regarding boron.

Disodium Tetraborate for example is used in supplements, and in chemicals such as fertilizers and cleaners etc.

Is it the quantity that you consume that makes it toxic?

In: 1

Answer 1

Molecules have different biological effects than the elements that make them up. Eating sodium metal would be real bad as it would react with the water in your saliva, and chlorine will cause a real bad day. But table salt is pretty important in our diets.