Does Boron Help Balance Hormones? Unpacking the Evidence

January 9, 2026 •

2 min read

According to a 2015 review in the Integrative Medicine: A Clinician's Journal, some studies found that boron can increase free testosterone and reduce estradiol levels in men. This highlights a growing area of interest: does boron help balance hormones, and what do we know about its effects on key endocrine pathways?

Quick Summary

Boron is a trace mineral that influences the metabolism of steroid hormones. Research indicates it can help balance levels of testosterone and estrogen and enhance vitamin D utilization, which contributes to bone health, especially during menopause.

Key Points

Hormone Modulation: Boron helps balance hormones by inhibiting the enzymes that break down testosterone, estrogen, and vitamin D.
Increased Free Testosterone: In men, boron can increase levels of free, bioavailable testosterone by reducing Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin (SHBG).
Estrogen and Menopause: For postmenopausal women, boron can increase serum estradiol levels, supporting bone density and hormone balance.
Enhanced Vitamin D Utilization: The mineral improves the body's use of vitamin D by extending its half-life, which benefits bone health and immunity.
Inflammation Reduction: Boron has anti-inflammatory properties and can lower inflammatory markers like hs-CRP and TNF-α.
Source via Diet or Supplements: While found in many plant-based foods, higher intakes shown in studies may require supplementation.
Safety Precautions: Individuals with hormone-sensitive conditions or kidney disease should consult a doctor before supplementing due to potential risks.

Understanding Boron's Role in Hormone Regulation

Boron is a trace mineral recognized for its interactions with the endocrine system, influencing steroid hormones like testosterone, estrogen, and vitamin D. It can affect the activity of these hormones by binding to certain enzymes, which slows their breakdown.

For men, boron may increase free testosterone by reducing Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin (SHBG). One study noted an increase in free testosterone and a decrease in estradiol after boron supplementation in healthy men.

For women, particularly during menopause, boron's effect on estrogen is relevant. As estrogen declines, boron may help increase serum estradiol levels, potentially supporting bone density in conjunction with vitamin D.

The Connection to Vitamin D and Overall Health

Boron also impacts vitamin D metabolism. It inhibits an enzyme that degrades active vitamin D forms, helping to maintain stable levels of this pro-hormone crucial for bone health, immune function, and mood.

Food Sources and Supplementation Considerations

Boron content in food varies, and the average dietary intake may be lower than amounts used in studies showing hormonal effects (3-10 mg daily).

Boron-Rich Food Sources

Fruits: Raisins, prunes, dried apricots, peaches, and apples.
Legumes: Cooked or refried beans and chickpeas.
Nuts: Almonds and hazelnuts.
Vegetables: Avocados, leafy greens like kale and spinach, and potatoes.

Comparison of Boron's Hormonal Effects


Aspect	Effect on Testosterone	Effect on Estrogen	Effect on Vitamin D
Mechanism	May decrease SHBG	May inhibit degradation enzymes	Inhibits degrading enzyme (24-hydroxylase)
Result (Men)	May increase bioavailable testosterone	May modulate levels	May increase circulating levels
Result (Women)	May help raise testosterone in postmenopausal women	May increase serum estradiol	May increase circulating levels

Safety and Precautions

The Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL) for adults is 20 mg per day. High intake can be harmful. Those with hormone-sensitive conditions or kidney disease should consult a doctor before using boron supplements.

Conclusion

Research suggests boron can influence testosterone, estrogen, and vitamin D levels by affecting their metabolism and SHBG. While potentially beneficial for bone health and hormone modulation, especially during menopause, individual considerations regarding dosage, existing health conditions, and potential risks necessitate medical consultation before supplementation.

Future Research

Further research is needed to fully understand the clinical impact and long-term safety of boron supplementation for hormone balance. Stay informed about ongoing studies by exploring reputable sources like the National Institutes of Health (NIH) website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, some studies show that boron supplementation can increase free testosterone levels by reducing Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin (SHBG). However, results can vary, and more research is needed.

No, boron is not considered an estrogen blocker. In fact, it can actually increase serum estrogen levels, particularly in postmenopausal women.

The Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL) for adults is 20 mg per day. Studies showing hormonal effects typically use dosages of 3 to 10 mg per day.

Women with hormone-sensitive conditions like breast, uterine, or ovarian cancer should avoid boron. It is also not recommended for those with kidney disease, or for pregnant or breastfeeding women without a doctor's supervision.

Foods high in boron include prune juice, raisins, avocados, peaches, grape juice, apples, pears, nuts, and legumes.

Boron enhances vitamin D utilization by inhibiting an enzyme that breaks it down. This extends the half-life of vitamin D in the body, leading to higher, more stable levels.

Some clinical research has shown changes in hormone levels within as little as one week of supplementing with a moderate dose of boron. However, individual results may vary.