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How to Use Boric Acid Suppositories: Ultimate Guide

Updated April 24,2024

For many women, vaginal odor is an ongoing reality - they’ve seen professionals seeking medical advice for their vaginal health, tried at-home remedies, and bought numerous vaginal creams, meant to assist in controlling odor but only ended up masking it or making the odor worse. While odor showing with other symptoms can be a red flag for a possible vaginal infection needing treatment pointing you to your gynecologist’s office, many women experience unpleasant odor that isn’t at all dangerous, but can negatively impact their confidence and comfort. We believe women should be empowered to make what they feel is the best decision for their own care, and providing women with options is key to achieving this.

That’s why pH-D created the first Vaginal Boric Acid Suppositories available to women in 2014. pH-D Feminine Health’s Boric Acid Vaginal Suppositories are a holistic, accessible, affordable, doctor recommended solution for vaginal odor that’s available in mass retailers nationwide such as Target, Walmart, CVS, and Walgreens. Odor is one of the most common feminine care concerns women bring to their healthcare providers, and our goal is to normalize the conversation so it isn’t something women think they should feel embarrassed or ashamed about.

What are Boric Acid Suppositories ?

Boric acid is a natural compound found in seawater that has been used by healthcare professionals for hundreds of years as a holistic solution for vaginal odor . In its purest form, boric acid is a white powder that is both colorless and odorless. Boric acid is a common and safe ingredient used in a variety of cosmetic products as well as feminine care products to help control vaginal odor .

pH-D Boric Acid Suppositories come in a small capsule that look like a pill, but are NOT FOR ORAL CONSUMPTION. The capsules are clear and the boric acid powder contained inside the capsule is white. Although boric acid can be harmful if swallowed, it can be safely used by many women as a solution for vaginal odor. If you are pregnant, trying to conceive or breastfeeding, you should not use boric acid . Discontinue use immediately if you become pregnant. Keep in mind that you should never use a boric acid vaginal capsule or other similar suppositories if you have sores, open wounds, or if you have a sensitivity or allergy.

Using Boric Acid Suppositories: The Basics

Your first time using a Boric Acid Suppository can be a bit daunting, and you likely have a few questions. But by the time you’ve successfully used them once, you’ll be plenty comfortable. Here are some basics on how to use the suppositories, how often to use them, and the kinds of activities you should and shouldn’t do while using them:

• How long does it take for a suppository to dissolve: The suppository should be inserted into the vagina and will dissolve inside the vagina within 4-12 hours.
• We recommend inserting one suppository at night. For extreme odor you can insert one boric acid capsule every 12 hours. We recommend wearing a panty liner, especially when using during the day as there may be watery leakage.
• Use the suppositories until you are odor free. If you are prone to vaginal odor, we recommend using 2-4 suppositories per week to assist with odor control. It is safe to use pH-D Boric Acid Suppositories on a regular basis.
• Each pH-D Boric Acid Suppository contains 600 mg of boric acid which is the amount recommended by doctors.
• Some women may experience mild burning or irritation. This may occur if the suppository was not inserted far enough into the vagina or if you have any irritated or open skin within the vagina.
• A small percentage of women experience spotting when using boric acid suppositories. It is safe to continue use if you are comfortable doing so. However, if it worsens or you begin to experience burning or irritation, we recommend you discontinue use.
• You can have sexual intercourse (including oral sex) after using boric acid suppositories. However, it is important to make sure the suppository has completely dissolved before doing so to avoid mild skin irritation. It can take anywhere from 4-12 hours to dissolve, but each woman is individual, and times may be longer or shorter.
• The boric acid may in fact break down a condom, so we recommend making sure the suppository has completely dissolved before having sex to maintain sexual health. This can take anywhere from 4-12 hours, but each woman is individual, and times may be longer or shorter.
• We are not aware of the potential impact boric acid may have on your hormonal vaginal ring and its effectiveness. Please consult your healthcare provider or the manufacturer of your hormonal vaginal ring.
• pH-D boric acid suppositories are safe to use with an IUD.
• It is safe to use boric acid suppositories while on your period, but if you are not comfortable, you can wait until your period is over to use them again.

You can insert Boric Acid Suppositories with or without an applicator, whichever feels more comfortable for you. Below are some step-by-step instructions on how to use either method.

How To Insert Boric Acid Suppositories without an applicator ?

• Wash your hands thoroughly to ensure they are clean
• Take one vaginal suppository and insert it into the vagina like you would a tampon.
• You can insert the suppository standing up with your feet spread apart or by lying on your back with your knees bent. Using your fingers, insert the suppository into the vagina and push it up until you can’t feel it anymore.

How Do I Insert Boric Acid Suppositories with an applicator?

• To insert a pH-D Boric Acid Vaginal Suppository using an applicator, take an applicator and remove the outer wrapping.
• Take one vaginal suppository and insert it into the open end of the applicator.
• While either standing with your feet spread apart or lying on your back with your knees bent, hold the applicator by the opposite end from where the suppository is.
• Gently insert the suppository applicator into the vagina as far as it will comfortably go. Push on the plunger to insert the suppository and remove the applicator.
• To clean the reusable applicators, you can put them in the dishwasher, wash with mild soap and warm water or boil in water for a few minutes. pH-D applicators can be pulled apart into two pieces if you pull hard enough! Once the applicator is clean and dry you can put the two pieces back together as they easily pop back into each other.

Why Should I Use Boric Acid Suppositories ?

Vaginal odor can be a concern to some, but it is actually common among women of all ages. Vaginal odor can be caused by a multitude of activities, including, but not limited to the following:

• Feminine odor after exerci s ing and sitting in sweaty clothes
• Wearing a wet swimsuit for an extended period of time
• Wearing tight pants and clothing that is not breathable
• Using scented detergents on underwear
• Strains on mental health like stress and anxiety
• Changes in diet or sugary foods

Many women will try to mask or get rid of vaginal odor by using heavily fragranced soaps over the vulva or even spraying perfume on their underwear, which could cause an allergic reaction or other symptoms of infection. Some women are embarrassed to discuss their concerns with their gynecologist or simply may not have access to healthcare. Boric acid vaginal suppositories are an effective, affordable, and holistic solution for vaginal odor. They are easy to insert and an accessible over the counter solution to assist in controlling odor, especially for vaginal dryness. pH-D Boric Acid Vaginal Suppositories and vitamin E suppositories are available on shelf and online at retailers such as Target, Walmart, CVS,and Walgreens.

Quick Tips from our pH-D Feminine Health Advisors

• “Vaginal irritation is one of the most common issues I see with my patients and boric acid is a nice safe alternative to combat these issues.” -Dr. Tamika Cross
• “I love recommending boric acid for patients with recurrent vaginal odor.” -Dr. Tamika Cross

pH-D Boric Acid Vaginal Suppositories are the #1 Doctor recommended brand of boric acid vaginal suppositories with over 10,000 clinics recommending pH-D Boric Acid Suppositories to their patients. Take on each day feeling your most confident and comfortable!

Written by Deena Seymour

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Boric Acid Suppositories for Vaginal Health

• Side Effects

Boric acid suppositories are a cost-effective alternative treatment method that may be used to treat vaginal infections, such as yeast infections or bacterial vaginosis .

They may be prescribed by your healthcare provider as an alternative or adjunct treatment option if other methods, such as antibiotics, aren't helping or if infections are recurring. They are also available over-the-counter.

This article discusses what boric acid suppositories may be used to treat. It will also cover benefits and risks associated with using them.

Boric acid suppositories are not FDA-approved. It's important to speak with your healthcare provider before using them to treat any vaginal infection.

Benefits of Boric Acid Suppositories

Boric acid may help improve vaginal health and has been shown to have anti-microbial and anti-fungal activity.

Research suggests that when used appropriately, boric acid suppositories can help reduce the risk of recurrent infections. At times, boric acid suppositories work more effectively than traditional medications, like some antifungals, which are used for treating yeast infections.

Boric acid may be recommended in some cases for:

• Yeast infections
• Trichomoniasis
• Bacterial vaginosis

Boric Acid for Yeast Infections

There is reasonably good evidence for the use of boric acid suppositories to treat yeast infections. That is particularly true for people whose yeast infections are not caused by Candida albicans , the usual culprit for yeast infections.

A review of studies found that:

• Boric acid did a reasonable job of eliminating such non-albicans infections and was able to cure between 40% and 100% of such yeast infections.
• The treatment was generally considered safe with only mild side effects.
• Yeast infections were no more likely to recur after boric acid treatment than after the use of standard antifungal drugs, such as miconazole.

Yeast infections are a common vaginal health condition that can lead to symptoms like vaginal itching, redness, and discharge. Vaginal colonization by Candida , the most common form of yeast associated with vaginal infections, is estimated at 20%. This number goes up in late pregnancy as well as in people who are immunosuppressed , such as those with advanced HIV .

A healthy vagina is naturally acidic which reduces the growth of many pathogens, like those commonly associated with sexually transmitted infections . When the pH is disrupted, you may be more prone to vaginal infections and irritation.

Boric Acid for Trichomoniasis

There is some evidence that boric acid suppositories can be used to treat trichmoniasis, a sexually transmitted infection caused by Trichomonas vaginalis. However, there isn't a lot of research and studies tend to be small.

That said, laboratory-based studies have shown that boric acid can effectively inhibit the growth of trichomonas. This supports the idea that boric acid may be an appropriate treatment option for this condition.

Trichomonas has difficulty growing in acidic environments in lab settings, and infections have been shown to occur more frequently in people who have a higher than healthy vaginal pH. If your infection has been difficult to treat, it may be worth discussing boric acid suppositories with your healthcare provider.

Just be aware that sexual partners need to be treated for trichomoniasis as well, and you should avoid sex or at least use condoms until treatment has been successful. Otherwise, there is a risk that you could pass an infection back and forth.

Boric Acid for Bacterial Vaginosis

There is little evidence for the use of boric acid to treat bacterial vaginosis (BV) , a condition that occurs when there is an imbalance in the vaginal flora. However, small studies suggest that it can be an effective treatment when used alone or as an adjunct therapy.

In a study, about 77% of participants reported feeling satisfied with how their symptoms resolved, however, the average treatment time was a little over a year.

BV is not generally thought of as a sexually transmitted infection. However, it and other forms of non-infectious vaginitis (such as yeast vaginitis) may still be associated with sexual activity.

How to Use Boric Acid Suppositories

Before you use a boric acid suppository, make sure you wash your hands thoroughly. Use an applicator or your finger to insert one suppository into your vagina in the evening. Consider wearing a panty liner or washable period underwear as there may be discharge.

Typical treatment for a yeast infection includes leaving one suppository in overnight for seven days. For recurring yeast infections , insert one suppository per evening for 14 days, then continue use for six months to a year twice a week.

How long you should use boric acid suppositories can vary and should always be discussed with your healthcare provider.

Side Effects and Risks

Using boric acid suppositories can come with risks. Always tell your healthcare provider about other medications and supplements you are taking, as these could interact with the suppository. Never take boric acid suppositories orally and don't use if you are pregnant or plan on becoming pregnant.

Side effects and risks associated with boric acid suppositories may include:

• Vaginal irritation and burning
• Medication leaking out and not fully absorbing
• Harm to fetus
• Toxic effects if too much is absorbed which can lead to kidney damage , circulatory system failure, and even death

A Word From Verywell

Alternative remedies range in quality. Some are heavily researched, well understood, and known to be effective. Others have no evidence behind them, just a lot of marketing dollars.

The quality of the evidence for the use of boric acid in vaginal health is moderate. There have been a number of human studies and in vitro studies showing its effectiveness.

The evidence has not always been consistent, but it is strong enough to suggest that boric acid treatment may be a safe, reasonable option for treating some vaginal health problems. In particular, it may be worth consulting with your healthcare provider about trying boric acid suppositories when standard yeast, BV, and trichomoniasis treatments have failed.

Zeron Mullins M, Trouton KM. BASIC study: is intravaginal boric acid non-inferior to metronidazole in symptomatic bacterial vaginosis? Study protocol for a randomized controlled trial. Trials . 2015 Jul 26;16:315. doi:10.1186/s13063-015-0852-5

The University of Maryland, Baltimore. Boric acid: summary report .

Gavilanes-Martínez MA, Coral-Garzón A, Cáceres DH, García AM. Antifungal activity of boric acid, triclosan and zinc oxide against different clinically relevant Candida species .  Mycoses . 2021;64(9):1045-1052. doi:10.1111/myc.13302

ScienceDirect. Boric acid .

Iavazzo C, Gkegkes ID, Zarkada IM, Falagas ME. Boric acid for recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis: the clinical evidence . J Womens Health (Larchmt) . 2011 Aug;20(8):1245-55. doi:10.1089/jwh.2010.2708

Mendling W. Guideline: vulvovaginal candidosis (AWMF 015/072), S2k (excluding chronic mucocutaneous candidosis). Mycose s. 2015;58:1-15. doi:10.1111/myc.12292

Brittingham A, Wilson WA. The antimicrobial effect of boric acid on Trichomonas vaginalis . Sex Transm Dis . 2014;41(12):718-722. doi:10.1097/OLQ.0000000000000203

Reichman O, Akins R, Sobel JD. Boric acid addition to suppressive antimicrobial therapy for recurrent bacterial vaginosis . Sex Transm Dis. 2009;36(11):732-734. doi:10.1097/OLQ.0b013e3181b08456

Powell A, Ghanem KG, Rogers L, et al. Clinicians' use of intravaginal boric acid maintenance therapy for recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis and bacterial vaginosis .  Sex Transm Dis . 2019;46(12):810-812. doi:10.1097/OLQ.0000000000001063

Student Health Center UC Santa Cruz. How to use boric acid for yeast infections .

By Elizabeth Boskey, PhD Boskey has a doctorate in biophysics and master's degrees in public health and social work, with expertise in transgender and sexual health.

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How to Use Boric Acid Suppositories: Ultimate Guide

For many women, vaginal yeast infections are an ongoing reality - they’ve seen professionals seeking medical advice for their vaginal health, tried at-home remedies, and bought numerous products meant to assist in controlling yeast infections but only ended up making them worse. We believe women should be empowered to make what they feel is the best decision for their own care, and providing women with options is key to achieving this.

That’s why pH-D created the first Vaginal Boric Acid Suppositories available to women in 2014. pH-D Feminine Health’s Boric Acid Suppositories are a holistic, accessible, affordable, doctor recommended solution for vaginal yeast infections. Yeast infections are one of the most common feminine care concerns women bring to their healthcare providers, and our goal is to normalize the conversation so it isn’t something women think they should feel embarrassed or ashamed about.

What are   Boric Acid Suppositories ?

Boric acid is a natural compound found in seawater that has been used by healthcare providers for hundreds of years as a holistic solution for vaginal yeast infections. In its purest form, boric acid is a white powder that is both colorless and odorless. Boric acid is a common and safe ingredient used in a variety of cosmetic products as well as feminine care products to help control vaginal yeast infections.

pH-D Boric Acid Suppositories come in a small capsule that look like a pill but are   NOT FOR ORAL CONSUMPTION.   The capsules are clear, and the boric acid powder contained inside the capsule is white. Although boric acid can be harmful if swallowed, it can be safely used by many women as a solution for vaginal yeast infections.   If you are pregnant, trying to conceive or breastfeeding, you should not use   boric acid . Discontinue use immediately if you become pregnant.   Keep in mind that you should never use a boric acid vaginal capsule or other similar suppositories if you have sores, open wounds, or if you have a sensitivity or allergy.

Using Boric Acid Suppositories: The Basics

Your first time using a Boric Acid Suppository can be a bit daunting, and you likely have a few questions. But by the time you’ve successfully used them once, you’ll be plenty comfortable. Here are some basics on how to use the suppositories, how often to use them, and the kinds of activities you should and shouldn’t do while using them:

• The suppository should be inserted into the vagina and will dissolve inside the vagina within 4-12 hours.
• We recommend inserting one suppository at night. We recommend wearing a panty liner, especially when using during the day as there may be watery leakage.
• Each pH-D Boric Acid Suppository contains 600 mg of boric acid which is the amount recommended by doctors.
• Some women may experience mild burning or irritation. This may occur if the suppository was not inserted far enough into the vagina or if you have any irritated or open skin within the vagina.
• A small percentage of women experience spotting when using boric acid suppositories. It is safe to continue use if you are comfortable doing so. However, if it worsens or you begin to experience burning or irritation, we recommend you discontinue use.
• You can have sexual intercourse (including oral sex) after using boric acid suppositories. However, it is important to make sure the suppository has completely dissolved before doing so to avoid mild skin irritation. It can take anywhere from 4-12 hours to dissolve, but each woman is individual, and times may be longer or shorter.
• The boric acid may in fact break down a condom, so we recommend making sure the suppository has completely dissolved before having sex. This can take anywhere from 4-12 hours, but each woman is individual, and times may be longer or shorter.
• We are not aware of the potential impact boric acid may have on your hormonal vaginal ring and its effectiveness. Please consult your healthcare provider or the manufacturer of your hormonal vaginal ring.
• pH-D boric acid suppositories are safe to use with an IUD.
• It is safe to use boric acid suppositories while on your period, but if you are not comfortable, you can wait until your period is over to use them again.

How   To   Insert Boric Acid Suppositories?

• Wash your hands thoroughly to ensure they are clean
• Take one vaginal suppository and insert it into the vagina like you would a tampon.
• You can insert the suppository standing up with your feet spread apart or by lying on your back with your knees bent. Using your fingers, insert the suppository into the vagina and push it up until you can’t feel it anymore.

Why Should I Use   Boric Acid Suppositories ?

Vaginal yeast infections can be a concern to some, but it is actually common among women of all ages. Vaginal yeast infections can be caused by a multitude of activities, including, but not limited to the following:

• After exercising  and sitting in sweaty clothes
• Wearing a wet swimsuit for an extended period of time
• Wearing tight pants and clothing that is not breathable
• Using scented detergents on underwear
• Stress and anxiety
• Changes in diet or sugary foods

Many women will try to mask or get rid of vaginal yeast infections by using heavily fragranced soaps or washes, douching, or even spraying perfume on their underwear. Some women are embarrassed to discuss their concerns with their gynecologist or simply may not have access to healthcare. Boric acid vaginal suppositories are an effective, affordable, and holistic solution for yeast infections. They are easy to insert and an accessible over the counter solution to yeast infections.

pH-D Boric Acid Vaginal Suppositories   are the #1 Doctor recommended brand of boric acid vaginal suppositories with over 10,000 clinics recommending pH-D Boric Acid Suppositories to their patients. Take on each day feeling your most confident and comfortable!

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pH-D Boric Acid Vaginal Suppositories 24.0ea

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• The holistic solution for vaginal odor.
• The #1 Doctor recommended brand of boric acid vaginal suppositories. 
• Each capsule contains the recommended 600 mg of boric acid.
• Women-Owned. 

Made in USA

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Shipping Weight (in lbs): 0.5

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Boric Acid Suppositories Can Help Prevent Recurrent Yeast Infections And Bacterial Vaginosis

And they're available over-the-counter.

A quick refresher: “The vagina is pretty incredible because it has mechanisms to maintain its pH in a healthy acidic range of 3.8 to 4.5,” explains Alyssa Dweck, MD , ob-gyn and founder of V-qool in Westchester County, New York. Healthy, "good" bacteria called lactobacilli that are naturally in the vagina produce lactic acid to maintain this pH, Dr. Dweck explains. "And many daily practices or infections can disrupt this pH and cause symptoms such as itching, irritating, odor, abnormal discharge, and infection with yeast or other bacterial overgrowth.”

Now let's get to boric acid (or boriseptic) suppositories. These are often prescribed as an alternative treatment for certain types of vaginal infections that are resistant to standard treatment, says Kecia Gaither, MD , an ob-gyn in New York City, or as a preventative measure. But are they boric acid suppositories legit and, more importantly, safe? Let's dig in.

What are boric acid suppositories exactly?

Boric acid (yes, the same stuff we use to kill cockroaches) can help to maintain a healthy vaginal pH for those struggling with chronic or recurrent yeast or bacterial infections, says Dr. Dweck. It can be formulated in vaginal capsules, but they’re meant only for intravaginal insertion (meaning you put the capsule directly in the vagina) and should never be taken orally.

“Historically, these needed to be prescribed by a health care practitioner and formulated at a specialty compounding pharmacy for individuals,” she explains. “They have since become a bit more mainstream and are available over the counter.”

What are boric acid suppositories used to treat?

Boric acid is usually thought of as a preventative management for those who experience chronic and recurrent yeast infections or bacterial vaginosis (BV), says Dr. Dweck. It is not usually a first-line treatment, but rather used to prevent recurrence after standard treatment or aid treatment of an infection that just won't quit.

How long does it take for boric acid suppositories to work?

Since boric acid suppositories are generally used as a preventative method, after standard treatment should have already been attempted, says Dr. Dweck. After you've finished the original course of treatment recommended by your doctor, there are many regimens you can implement that involve these suppositories to prevent a recurrent infection.

"My go-to regimen is one suppository (500 to 600 mg) intravaginally once per week for eight to 12 weeks,” she says. “ I usually use this after satisfactory treatment with a traditional antifungal/antibiotic, and this is usually sufficient for prevention.”

Is it safe to use boric acid suppositories on your own for vaginal issues?

If traditional treatments aren't helping you kick recurring infections, definitely talk to your doc about trying out this alternative method before you go at it alone to make sure you do so safely.

You should *always* avoid oral use of boric acid because the substance is toxic when ingested. So, this also means you should avoid receiving oral sex after insertion for at least 24 to 48 hours, says Dr. Dweck. Additionally, if you find you’re sensitive to boric acid or the capsule it’s contained in, then she recommends discontinuing use (though Dr. Dweck notes this is rare!).

“Potential side effects include redness, burning, and watery discharge,” adds Dr. Gaither. “Boric acid suppositories should also not be used during pregnancy or in the presence of open wounds.”

Lastly, you should always obtain these capsules from a reputable pharmacy, Dr. Dweck says.

The bottom line: Boric acid suppositories may help prevent recurrent yeast or bacterial vaginosis infections after you've completed standard, doctor-recommended treatment.

Emilia Benton is a Houston-based freelance writer and editor. In addition to Runner's World, she has contributed health, fitness and wellness content to Women's Health, SELF, Prevention, Healthline, and the Houston Chronicle, among other publications. She is also an 11-time marathoner, a USATF Level 1-certified running coach, and an avid traveler.

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Two MIT scholars, each with a strong entrepreneurial drive, have received 2024 Kavanaugh Fellowship awards, advancing their quest to turn pioneering research into profitable commercial enterprises.

The Kavanaugh Translational Fellows Program gives scholars training to lead organizations that will bring their research to market. PhD candidates Grant Knappe and Arjav Shah are this year’s recipients. Knappe is developing a drug delivery platform for an emerging class of medicines called nucleic acid therapeutics. Shah is using hydrogel microparticles to clean up water polluted by heavy metals and other contaminants. Knappe and Shah will begin their fellowship with years of entrepreneurial expertise under their belts. They’ve developed and refined their business plans through MIT’s innovation ecosystem, including the Sandbox, the Legatum Center, the Venture Mentoring Service, the National Science Foundation’s I-Corps Program, and Blueprint by The Engine. Now, the yearlong Kavanaugh Fellowship will give the scholars time to focus exclusively on testing their business plans and exercising decision-making skills — critical to startup success — with the guidance of MIT mentors.

“It’s a testament to the support and direction they’ve received from the MIT community that their entrepreneurial aspirations have evolved and matured over time,” says Michael J. Cima, program director for the Kavanaugh program and the David H. Koch Professor of Engineering in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering.

Founded in 2016, the Kavanaugh program was instrumental in helping past fellows launch several robust startups, including low-carbon cement manufacturer Sublime Systems and SiTration, which is using a new type of filtration membrane to extract critical materials such as lithium.

A safer way to deliver breakthrough medicines

Nucleic acid therapeutics, including mRNA and CRISPR, are disrupting today’s clinical landscape thanks to their promise of targeting disease treatment according to genetic blueprints. But the first methods of delivering these molecules to the body used viruses as their transport, raising patient safety concerns .

“Humans have figured out how to engineer certain viruses found in nature to deliver specific cargoes [for disease treatment],” says Knappe. “But because they look like viruses, the human immune system sees them as a danger signal and creates an immune reaction that can be harmful to patients.”

Given the safety profile issues of viral delivery, researchers turned to non-viral technologies that use lipid nanoparticle technology, a mixture of different lipid-like materials, assembled into particles to protect the mRNA therapeutic from getting degraded before it reaches a cell of interest. “Because they don’t look like viruses there, the immune system generally tolerates them,” adds Knappe.

Recent data show lipid nanoparticles can now target the lung, opening the potential for novel treatments of deadly cancers and other diseases.

Knappe’s work in MIT’s Bathe BioNanoLab focused on building such a non-viral delivery platform based on a different technology: nucleic acid nanoparticles, which combine the attractive components of both viral and non-viral systems. Knappe will spend his Kavanaugh Fellowship year developing proof-of-concept data for his drug delivery method and building the team and funding needed to commercialize the technology.

A PhD candidate in the Department of Chemical Engineering (ChemE), Knappe was initially attracted to MIT because of its intellectual openness. “You can work with any faculty member in other departments. I wasn't restricted to the chemical engineering faculty,” says Knappe, whose supervisor, Professor Mark Bathe, is in the Department of Biological Engineering.

Knappe, who is from New Jersey, welcomes the challenges that will come in his Kavanaugh year, including the need to pinpoint the right story that will convince venture capitalists and other funders to bet on his technology. Attracting talent is also top of mind. “How do you convince really talented people that have a lot of opportunities to work on what you work on? Building the first team is going to be critical,” he says. The network Knappe has been building in his years at MIT is paying dividends now.

Targeting “forever chemicals” in water

That network includes Shah. The two fellows met when they worked on the MIT Science Policy Review , a student-run journal concerned with the intersection of science, technology, and policy. Knappe and Shah did not compete directly academically but used their biweekly coffee walks as a welcome sounding board. Naturally, they were pleased when they found out they had both been chosen for the Kavanaugh Fellowship. So far, they have been too busy to celebrate over a beer.

“We are good collaborators with research, as well,” says Shah. “Now we’re going on this entrepreneurial journey together. It’s been exciting.”

Shah is a PhD candidate in ChemE’s Chemical Engineering Practice program. He got interested in the global imperative for cleaner water at a young age. His hometown of Surat is the heart of India’s textile industry. “Growing up, it wasn’t hard to see the dye-colored water flowing into your rivers and streams,” Shah says. “Playing a role in fostering positive change in water treatment fills me with a profound sense of purpose.”

Shah’s work, broadly, is to clean toxic chemicals called micropollutants from water in an efficient and sustainable manner. “It’s humanly impossible to turn a blind eye to our water problems,” he says, which can be categorized as accessibility, availability, and quality. Water problems are global and complex, not just because of the technological challenges but also sociopolitical ones, he adds.

Manufactured chemicals called per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), or “forever chemicals,” are in the news these days. PFAS, which go into making nonstick cookware and waterproof clothing, are just one of more than 10,000 such emerging contaminants that have leached into water streams. “These are extremely difficult to remove using existing systems because of their chemical diversity and low concentrations,” Shah says. “The concentrations are akin to dropping an aspirin tablet in an Olympic-sized swimming pool.” But no less toxic for that.

In the lab at MIT, Shah is working with Devashish Gokhale, a fellow PhD student, and Patrick S. Doyle, the Robert T. Haslam (1911) Professor of Chemical Engineering, to commercialize an innovative microparticle technology , hydroGel, to remove these micropollutants in an effective, facile, and sustainable manner. Hydrogels are a broad class of polymer materials that can hold large quantities of water.

“Our materials are like Boba beads. We are trying to save the world with our Boba beads,” says Shah with a laugh. “And we have functionalized these particles with tunable chemistries to target different micropollutants in a single unit operation.”

Due to its outsized environmental impact, industrial water is the first application Shah is targeting. Today, wastewater treatment emits more than 3 percent of global carbon dioxide emissions , which is more than the shipping industry’s emissions, for example. The current state of the art for removing micropollutants in the industry is to use activated carbon filters. “[This technology] comes from coal, so it’s unsustainable,” Shah says. And the activated carbon filters are hard to reuse. “Our particles are reusable, theoretically infinitely.”

“I’m very excited to be able to take advantage of the mentorship we have from the Kavanaugh team to take this technology to its next inflection point, so that we are ready to go out in the market and start making a huge impact,” he says.

A dream community

Shah and Knappe have become adept at navigating the array of support and mentorship opportunities MIT has to offer. Shah worked with a small team of seasoned professionals in the water space from the MIT Venture Mentoring Service. “They’ve helped us every step of the way as we think about commercializing the technology,” he says.

Shah worked with MIT Sandbox, which provides a seed grant to help find the right product-market fit. He is also a fellow with the Legatum Center for Development and Entrepreneurship , which focuses on entrepreneurship in global growth markets.

“We’re exploring the potential for this technology and its application in a lot of different markets, including India. Because that’s close to my heart,” Shah says. “The Legatum community has been unique, where you can have those extremely hard conversations, confront yourself with those fears, and then talk it out with the group of fellows.”

The Abdul Latif Jameel Water and Food Systems Lab, or J-WAFS, has been an integral part of Shah’s journey with research and commercialization support through its Solutions Grant and a travel award to the Stockholm World Water Week in August 2023.

Knappe has also taken advantage of many innovation programs, including MIT’s Blueprint by the Engine, which helps researchers explore commercial opportunities of their work, plus programs outside of MIT but with strong on-campus ties such as Nucleate Activator and Frequency Bio.

It was during one of these programs that he was inspired by two postdocs working in Bathe’s lab and spinning out biotech startups from their research, Floris Engelhardt and James Banal. Engelhardt helped spearhead Kano Therapeutics , and Banal launched Cache DNA .

“I was passively absorbing and watching everything that they were going through and what they were excited about and challenged with. I still talk to them pretty regularly to this day,” Knappe says. “It’s been really great to have them as continual mentors, throughout my PhD and as I transition out of the lab.”

Shah says he is grateful not only for being selected for the Kavanaugh Fellowship but to MIT as a community. “MIT has been more than a dream come true,” he says. He will have the opportunity to explore a different side of the institution as he enters the MBA program at MIT Sloan School of Management this fall. Shah expects this program, along with his Kavanaugh training, will supply the skills he needs to scale the business so it can make a difference in the world.

“I always keep coming back to the question ‘How does what I do matter to the person on the street?’ This guides me to look at the bigger picture, to contextualize my research to solving important problems,” Shah says. “So many great technologies are being worked on each day, but only a minuscule fraction make it to the market.”

Knappe is equally dedicated to serving a larger purpose. “With the right infrastructure, between basic fundamental science, conducted in academia, funded by government, and then translated by companies, we can make products that could improve everyone’s life across the world,” he says.

Past Kavanaugh Fellows are credited with spearheading commercial outfits that have indeed made a difference. This year’s fellows are poised to follow their lead. But first they will have that beer together to celebrate.

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Is Boric Acid Really An Effective Stink Bug Repellent?

U nwanted bugs are bad enough, but when they cause bad odor, that's even worse. Stink bugs make their way into your home as the temperatures cool down. Since they're in such close proximity, pesticides are a bad idea -- they contain harmful chemicals that could put you and your loved ones at risk. Boric acid is a naturally occurring chemical that can be used as an antiseptic, a fungicide, or to fight off bugs -- making it a great stink bug-fighting weapon if you like natural pest control methods.

Though it's natural and can be used around the home and in the garden wherever you find stink bugs, boric acid can still pose a risk to people, pets, and plants. Moreover, since it is dangerous when ingested, it's not recommended as an indoor repellent if you have kids and pets around. When you use boric acid to fight off bugs, keep the other animals that might be crawling around in mind.

Read more: Minimal Cleaning Hacks To Keep Your Home Tidy

How Boric Acid Kills Stink Bugs

Even though boric acid can be found naturally in the environment, that doesn't mean it's totally safe. While it's a mild to severe irritant to humans, it's lethal to critters with exoskeletons. It damages their exoskeletons and causes them to dry out and dehydrate, eventually leading to death. In addition, if bugs ingest boric acid, it harms their nervous systems and stomachs, which can also kill them. Boric acid is more of a pest control than a repellent, but it will keep them out of your home either way.

The downside of using boric acid for pest control is that the stink bugs must come into contact with it for it to be effective. If they don't walk through it or eat it, it will be next to useless. Fortunately, boric acid comes in many forms, like granules, powders, and liquids, so you can try different methods to see what's effective. Depending on the situation, you may need different forms for different areas of your home.

How To Apply It Around Your Home

When the weather starts to cool down, stink bugs become sluggish, so you'll often find them basking in the sun on fall days. They're probably going to bask near an entrance to your home because once the sun goes down, it will be too cold for them. Placing boric acid in their sunbathing spots is one key way to eliminate them. Put dust or granular boric acid around doors and on window sills, as well as any other crevices they can use to get inside your home, and spray liquid boric acid on them when you see them.

Boric acid can also be used in the garden -- it contains boron, which plants need. However, excessive boric acid can prevent photosynthesis. The good news is that it dissolves in water and can be washed away, so dousing the soil with water when you're done with the treatment will help your plants not receive too much. Finally, remember to keep kids and pets away from any treated areas.

Read the original article on House Digest .