In the age of the Internet, you always come across strange and often dangerous trends. The latest of these trends is the 'Borax Train', a phenomenon that emerged on the video platform TikTok and is now spilling over into Europe. TikTokers from around the world are touting borax, a white powder often used as laundry detergent, as a miracle cure. This trend is very reminiscent of the Tide Pod Challenge from 2018, when teenagers around the world ate detergent pods and often became seriously ill. The difference: This time, followers of the trend claim that borax has health benefits.
Borax: laundry bleach or health supplement?
Borax, also known as sodium borate, is a white powder often used in laundry detergents, but can also be found in other applications such as flux in soldering or as a wood preservative against fungi. Despite this widespread industrial use, it is falsely advertised as a dietary supplement on TikTok.
The trend started with statements from TikTokers claiming that sodium borate could reduce inflammation, treat arthritis and “detoxify” the body. Since then, the trend has spread, with people adding the powder to their meals or drinks in hopes of looking younger and relieving various ailments.
However, it is important to note that borax is not approved as a dietary supplement in the United States and Europe. In the USA it is even completely banned, while in Europe it is only permitted in the food industry in a special case - for the preservation of real caviar.
The Dangers of Borax Consumption
However, ingesting borax can cause a number of health problems, including severe skin rashes, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In larger quantities it can even lead to kidney failure. It can also irritate the mucous membranes of the eyes, nose, throat and lungs if inhaled. According to the medical magazine “WebMD”, borax can even lead to serious malformations in embryos and is therefore on the list of substances of particular concern.
Conspiracy narratives and ignorance
Despite all these dangers, many TikTokers ignore the risks and instead follow conspiracy theories and misinformation. Some claim that the health benefits of borax are intentionally suppressed by the pharmaceutical industry to force people to purchase expensive medications.
The countermovement
Fortunately, there is also a countermovement of TikTokers warning their followers about the dangers of the substance. Experts and poison control centers are also reporting cases of borax poisoning and warning about the risks of the trend.
Conclusion
In the age of the Internet, misinformation can spread quickly and give rise to dangerous trends like the Borax bandwagon. It is therefore important to always remain critical and check what information you find online, especially when it comes to your own health. It never hurts to consult a doctor or consult reputable medical sources before trying a new “health trend.”
Source:
The Standard , TikTok
Already read? Those were the days when the Internet was considered a place of limitless freedom. Today, as the waves of digital regulatory rage sweep through platforms like Telegram, that idea seems more distant than ever. A debate recently broke out surrounding a rumor that a major attack on the Telegram platform would take place in August. An understandable concern? Or just digital scaremongering that thrives in the dark corners of the internet? Let's get to the bottom of the matter. A Mimikama fact check: Telegram, TikTok and CO will be shut down in August 2023?
This article is relevant to the topic of TikTok challenges: TikTok: Fake videos, dangerous challenges and addictive potential worry parents
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