Boron And Testosterone: What the Research Really Says

Testosterone plays a crucial role in muscle growth, sexual function, mood, and bone health. As men age, and with the added pressure of modern stressors like poor diet, sleep, and environmental toxins, testosterone levels can drop significantly.

This natural decline has driven interest in testosterone boosters, especially natural ones. One compound that’s been gaining traction is boron—a trace mineral with surprising effects on hormones. But can it really raise testosterone? Let’s explore what science says.

What Is Boron?

Bring out your table of elements!

Boron is a trace mineral naturally found in a range of compounds, including;

• Soil
• Water
• Fruits
• Leafy vegetables
• Nuts
• Legumes

Although not as well-known as iron or calcium, it plays a crucial role in plant growth and is being increasingly studied for its effects on human physiology.

Specifically, boron is believed to influence numerous physiological processes, including;

• Hormone activity
• Bone strength
• Cognitive function
• Inflammation levels

Its unique interaction with key micronutrients and hormones has made it a topic of interest for researchers investigating testosterone and overall men’s health.

Can Boron Boost Testosterone?

Boron is believed to have positive effects on testosterone through several mechanisms.

1. SHBG Reduction - Sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) is a protein that binds to testosterone in the blood, rendering it inactive. Only free (unbound) testosterone is biologically active and can be used by tissues.

Therefore, having lower levels of SHBG would result in more usable testosterone, theoretically resulting in more potential for;

• Muscle growth
• Libido
• Energy

Research suggests that boron can reduce SHBG levels. In one study, participants who took 10 mg of boron daily for one week experienced a 28% reduction in SHBG and an increase in free testosterone levels.

2. Vitamin D Conversion - Active vitamin D plays a critical role in testosterone synthesis, as vitamin D receptors are present in the testes where testosterone is produced. Boron appears to facilitate the conversion of vitamin D into its active form, calcitriol. 

A boron deficiency could, therefore, impair vitamin D activation and negatively affect testosterone production. One study found that men who supplemented with boron had significantly higher active vitamin D levels, suggesting a supportive role in maintaining hormone health.

3. Estrogen Suppression - High levels of estrogen in men can disrupt hormonal balance. Boron may reduce estrogen by inhibiting the enzyme aromatase, which converts testosterone into estrogen. 

One study showed a 39% reduction in estradiol (a potent form of estrogen) after just one week of boron supplementation. By preserving testosterone and limiting estrogen, boron may help maintain a more favorable hormonal profile.

Does Boron Supplementation Increase Testosterone?

The above information is great, but the real question is, does boron supplementation increase testosterone levels?

Not near as much as some influencers would have you believe. 

Research into boron supplementation to increase testosterone shows some promise but is highly limited—especially when it comes to free testosterone, its biologically active form.

Further, many studies that do show an increase in testosterone from boron supplementation are done on animals. 

Here’s a summary of several studies;

Study 1 - A 2011 study published in Biological Trace Element Research found that taking 6 mg of boron daily for one week resulted in ¹ 

• Increase in free testosterone by 28% 
• Decrease in estradiol (a form of estrogen) by 39%
• Decrease in SBHG levels

Study 2 - A 1994 study had 10 male bodybuilders take 2.5 mg daily for 7 weeks, while 9 others took a placebo.² This resulted in;

• Both groups increased testosterone 
• There was no significant difference 

This suggests boron had no effect.

Study 3: A large review from 2021 concluded that while there’s some promise, evidence is lacking to recommend boron as a testosterone booster.³

What’s Proper Dosing For Testosterone?

Most studies have used doses ranging from 3 to 10 mg per day. A common effective dosage for testosterone-related benefits appears to be 6 mg/day, taken consistently for several days to weeks.

However, there is still a lack of evidence to make any solid recommendations.

Dietary Sources of Boron

In addition to supplementation, you can also obtain boron through your diet. In fact, boron is found in an array of foods. However, boron intake varies depending on soil conditions and diet.

Common quality sources of boron include:

• Fruits: Avocados, raisins, prunes, apples
• Vegetables: Broccoli, spinach, potatoes
• Nuts/Seeds: Almonds, walnuts, peanuts, sunflower seeds
• Legumes and Grains: Lentils, chickpeas, oats, brown rice
• Beverages: Coffee, wine, cider (contain small boron amounts)

Unlike other minerals and vitamins, there is no recommended daily intake for this substance.

Nevertheless, most diets provide only 1–2 mg of boron per day. To achieve the amounts used in research (often 6–10 mg/day), supplementation may be necessary.

Other Health Benefits of Boron

While a possible boost in testosterone is the primary reason bodybuilders will take boron, there are other reasons. Here are some of the best health benefits from boron.

1. Greater Bone Health

Boron affects the metabolism of three essential minerals for bone strength;

• Calcium
• Magnesium
• Phosphorus

In postmenopausal women, boron supplementation has been linked to improvements in bone mineral density.⁴ When combined with adequate vitamin D and calcium intake, boron may help prevent osteoporosis.

2. Reduces Inflammation 

Chronic Inflammation plays a role in many diseases, from arthritis to heart disease. Boron has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects by reducing inflammatory biomarkers, including IL-6 and TNF-α.

However, positive studies have only been found in animals, while the results for humans are less clear.⁵ These effects may also support joint health and mobility, particularly in older adults or athletes.

3. Cognitive Function

Animal studies and early human trials suggest that boron may enhance cognitive performance. Supplementation has been associated with numerous cognitive improvements, including; ⁷

• Improved memory
• Increase in motor skills
• Greater hand-eye coordination

The underlying mechanisms may involve boron’s effect on brain electrical activity and antioxidant protection.

4. Hormone Balance

Beyond testosterone, boron may influence thyroid hormones and insulin. It may help convert thyroxine (T4) to triiodothyronine (T3)—the active form of thyroid hormone.⁷ As a result, insulin sensitivity increases, which is crucial for blood sugar control and metabolic function.

5. Antioxidant Properties

Boron supports the function of key antioxidant enzymes, such as superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase.⁸ 

These enzymes help neutralize free radicals and protect cells from oxidative stress, potentially lowering the risk of chronic disease and aging-related damage.

6. Improved Wound Healing

By promoting collagen synthesis, boron may accelerate tissue repair. It also exhibits antimicrobial effects, which can reduce the risk of infections in wounds. 

These properties make it useful in both internal and topical healing contexts.

FAQs

Can boron really raise testosterone?

Some studies suggest that boron can reduce SHBG, increase free testosterone, enhance vitamin D activation, and decrease estrogen levels. While there is some promise, research is still lacking to provide a conclusive answer.

How long does it take for the treatment to work?

Some effects—like SHBG reduction—have been observed within a week. However, hormonal changes vary greatly between individuals.

Is boron a steroid?

No. Boron is a trace mineral, not a synthetic hormone. It indirectly affects testosterone through mechanisms like SHBG reduction and estrogen inhibition.

Can women use boron?

Yes. Women may benefit from boron’s effects on bone health, cognitive function, and inflammation. It’s also being studied for hormone support in postmenopausal women.

What foods are highest in boron?

Prunes, raisins, almonds, avocados, and legumes are among the best natural sources of these nutrients.

Conclusion

Boron isn’t a miracle testosterone booster, but evidence suggests it may be able to meaningfully support hormone health—particularly by reducing SHBG and estrogen and enhancing vitamin D activation. Beyond hormones, boron may support bone health, brain function, inflammation control, and wound healing. However, we recommend that you concentrate on dialing in on your diet, training, and sleep before putting too much hope into it.

References

1. Naghii MR, Mofid M, Asgari AR, Hedayati M, Daneshpour MS. Comparative effects of daily and weekly boron supplementation on plasma steroid hormones and proinflammatory cytokines. J Trace Elem Med Biol. 2011;25(1):54-58. doi:10.1016/j.jtemb.2010.10.001 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21129941/
2. Green NR, Ferrando AA. Plasma boron and the effects of boron supplementation in males. Environ Health Perspect. 1994;102 Suppl 7(Suppl 7):73-77. doi:10.1289/ehp.94102s773 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7889885/
3. Lazarev A, Bezuglov E. Testosterone Boosters Intake in Athletes: Current Evidence and Further Directions. Endocrines. 2021; 2(2):109-120. https://doi.org/10.3390/endocrines2020011
4. Rababah T, Aludatt M, Gammoh S, et al. A pilot study investigating the influence of dietary boron levels on osteoporosis in postmenopausal women. Food Sci Nutr. 2024;12(8):5708-5721. Published 2024 May 19. doi:10.1002/fsn3.4218 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11317700/
5. Kurtoğlu V, Kurtoğlu F, Gül M, et al. Investigation of the effects of boron on leucocyte functions and formed free radical status in endotoxin-mediated inflammation. Biol Trace Elem Res. 2005;106(1):27-35. doi:10.1385/BTER:106:1:027 https://www.researchgate.net/publication/327367375_Investigation_of_the_Effects_of_Boron_on_Leucocyte_Functions_and_Formed_Free_Radical_Status_in_Endotoxin-Mediated_Inflammation
6. Penland JG. The importance of boron nutrition for brain and psychological function. Biol Trace Elem Res. 1998;66(1-3):299-317. doi:10.1007/BF02783144 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10050926/
7. Wei Y, Li X, Cui R, Liu J, Wang G. Associations between sensitivity to thyroid hormones and insulin resistance in euthyroid adults with obesity. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne). 2024;15:1366830. Published 2024 Aug 8. doi:10.3389/fendo.2024.1366830 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11338882/
8. Başaran N, Duydu Y, Bacanlı M, et al. Evaluation of oxidative stress and immune parameters of boron exposed males and females. Food Chem Toxicol. 2020;142:111488. doi:10.1016/j.fct.2020.111488 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32540475/