Testosterone
Boron and testosterone: what the research really shows
Boron has become a popular “testosterone hack” on social media. Here is what the evidence says about boron and testosterone.
In short: Boron is a trace mineral found in fruit, nuts and vegetables. One very small study found 10 mg of boron a day for a week raised free testosterone and lowered oestrogen in healthy men, but larger, longer studies are lacking. Boron is safe at food levels, but the upper limit for adults is 20 mg a day.
What is boron?
Boron is a trace mineral involved in bone health and the metabolism of vitamin D, magnesium and calcium. It is not classed as an essential nutrient, and there is no official daily requirement.
What research shows
- A small study of eight healthy men found that 10 mg of boron daily for one week increased free testosterone and decreased oestradiol.
- Other small studies, including in bodybuilders, found no significant change in testosterone.
- There are no large, long-term trials in men.
Conclusion: the evidence is too limited to recommend boron as a testosterone booster.
Food sources
- Avocados, raisins, prunes and dried apricots
- Nuts, especially almonds and peanuts
- Legumes
- Apples and pears
Safety
- Food amounts are safe.
- The upper limit for adults is 20 mg a day from all sources.
- Too much can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and skin problems.
- People with kidney disease should avoid supplements.
What matters more for testosterone
- Sleep. See lack of sleep and erectile dysfunction.
- Healthy weight and strength training
- Limiting alcohol. See beer and testosterone.
- Zinc, magnesium and vitamin D. See vitamin D and testosterone.
Read how to increase testosterone naturally.
How we can help
Our naturopaths help men separate trends from evidence and build natural plans for energy and hormone health.
Why men choose our natural approach
Walk in or consult remotely
Walk in at Buccleuch, Sandton, with parking available, or consult by phone or video from anywhere in South Africa.
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Herbal remedies and practical guidance, with no injections or surgery.
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Enquiries answered 24/7, with same-day appointments often available.
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Consultations are R2,500, with any remedy costs confirmed before you commit.
Private self-check: 5 quick questions
Answer these honestly before you try anything new or book. They help you describe what is happening and get more from your first consultation.
- Has your interest in sex dropped noticeably over the past year?
- Do you feel tired most days, even after a full night in bed?
- Has your weight around the middle increased?
- Have stress, low mood or poor sleep become more common?
- Have you noticed weaker erections or fewer morning erections?
Two or more yes answers suggest that energy, sleep, stress or weight may be affecting your drive. These are areas where natural, practical support often makes a real difference, and a naturopath can help you work out where to start.
What happens at your first consultation
- Walk in or book online, call +27 10 205 9855 or WhatsApp +27 81 823 1313. In Gauteng, walk in at 199 Vanessa Street, Buccleuch, Sandton, where parking is available. Outside Gauteng, choose a confidential phone or video consultation. Enquiries are answered 24/7.
- Talk privately with a naturopath about your symptoms, health history, lifestyle and goals.
- Receive a personalised natural plan, with any remedy costs confirmed upfront.
- Follow up in person or remotely so your progress is reviewed and your plan adjusted.
Your health and safety
Our naturopaths use natural remedies and lifestyle support, and always check your health history and current medicines first. If anything needs medical attention we tell you honestly and refer you to an appropriately registered medical professional. Avoid unregistered “enhancement” products sold online or at markets, as SAHPRA has warned that some contain hidden ingredients.
Seek urgent medical care for chest pain, an erection lasting more than four hours, sudden weakness or other sudden symptoms.
Consultation price
A consultation is R2,500, in person or remote, and your naturopath confirms any further costs before you go ahead. See our mens clinic prices for details.
Frequently asked questions
Does boron increase testosterone?
One tiny study found an increase in free testosterone, but evidence is too limited to recommend it.
How much boron is safe?
Food amounts are safe. The upper limit for adults is 20 mg a day.
What foods are high in boron?
Avocados, raisins, prunes, nuts, legumes, apples and pears.
Is boron worth taking for testosterone?
The basics, such as sleep, weight and exercise, have far stronger evidence.
How much does a consultation cost?
A consultation is R2,500, and any remedy costs are confirmed with you before you go ahead.
Book your consultation today
Get personalised, natural support from a naturopath. Walk in at our Sandton practice, or book a remote consultation if you live outside Gauteng.
References and further reading
- NIH Office of Dietary Supplements: Boron
- Mayo Clinic: Male hypogonadism
- NCCIH: Using dietary supplements wisely
Reviewed by George Mulaudzi, Naturopath. This page is general information and does not replace a personal consultation. If you have chest pain, sudden symptoms or a medical emergency, seek urgent medical care.
