TikTokers are testing another dangerous trend on the platform with the latest borax drinking challenge.
Some people who tried consuming the substance claim that it can remove parasites and reduce inflammation in their bodies. However, the experts opposed these claims and said that it's ineffective and it's not recommended for consumption.
TikTok Borax Drinking Challenge is a Bust
Drinking a chemical that can pose extreme danger to a person's health is never recommended at all costs, but if your favorite influencer is doing that, you might resort to doing it, as well.
Some TikTok users believe that drinking borax is the latest way to reap several health benefits like in the case of @thetruthaboutparasites. This content creator claims that she drinks it with coffee in the morning.
According to Business Insider, borax is commonly found in household cleaning agents such as detergents. While it's deemed to be a health booster, experts debunked the misinformation by saying its health disadvantages.
According to the National Capital Poison Center, a person who ingested borax might experience skin rashes on top of diarrhea and vomiting. In the worst-case scenario, the chemical can cause the person to be anemic.
It's a mystery why it became explosive on TikTok. While many content creators also told their viewers that drinking borax is harmful, others still believe that it can cure cancer and arthritis.
As of writing, the #TikTokboraxchallenge has amassed over 34 million views and they still keep on piling up on TikTok. As you scroll through the feed, you will see a lot of clips featuring people who drink it with water.
"Just a pinch or two a day." A TikTok creator Todd Mendlesohn who was a former bodybuilder has claimed that a mixture of borax, Celtic sea salt, and baking soda serves as his "pre-workout" drink.
At the time of posting, the video already garnered over 150,000 views on TikTok.
Borax Poisoning is No Joke
Vox notes in its report that TikTok people used to call the latest borax challenge the "Tide Pod challenge" for boomers.
While both TikTok trends are dangerous and not recommended to be done by any individuals, some people find no wrong in doing it.
According to Dr. Kelly Johnson-Arbor, National Capital Poison Center's co-medical director, some patients who ingested borax experienced chills and fevers which are common symptoms of the Jarisch-Herxheimer reaction.
According to the National Library of Medicine, about 5 to 6 grams are considered fatal doses for children. Meanwhile, for adults, 10 to 25 grams of borax are proven fatal.
In case you drink the substance, immediately seek medical attention. Call the local poison information center as soon as possible.
Beyond the health concerns, another room for concern is the fact that borax companies take advantage of this viral trend to earn more profit instead of informing citizens that the chemical is not for human consumption.
