What is Boron? Boron is a naturally occurring trace mineral found in soil, food, and water. Although not officially classified as an “essential” nutrient in humans by major regulatory bodies, mounting research suggests that boron plays a significant role in maintaining optimal health. It influences several biological functions, particularly those related to bone health, hormone activity, brain function, and the body’s use of other minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus. In urine testing, boron levels reflect recent intake or exposure. The "Essential Elements; urine" panel by Mosaic Diagnostics assesses urinary excretion of boron and other minerals to help determine whether the body is absorbing and processing these nutrients appropriately, or whether there is evidence of excessive intake, deficiency, or imbalance. Why Boron Matters for Health 1. Bone and Joint Health Boron appears to assist in the metabolism of calcium, magnesium, and vitamin D—key nutrients for building and maintaining strong bones. It has been studied for its potential role in reducing the risk of osteoporosis and improving bone mineral density, particularly in postmenopausal women. Boron may also support joint health by influencing inflammatory pathways and the metabolism of sex hormones. 2. Hormonal Balance Boron is involved in the regulation of steroid hormones, including estrogen and testosterone. Some studies have shown that adequate boron intake may help increase free testosterone levels in men and support estrogen balance in women. This makes it of interest in hormone optimization and menopausal support. 3. Brain and Cognitive Function Boron may affect brain function, particularly areas involving attention, short-term memory, and motor control. Low boron status has been associated with poorer performance in cognitive tasks, while higher intakes are linked with improved mental alertness. 4. Inflammation and Immune Support Boron may modulate inflammatory responses and influence the activity of enzymes such as cyclooxygenase (COX), which are involved in the production of inflammatory mediators. It may also support immune function and wound healing. 5. Nutrient Utilization Boron supports the body’s use of other minerals. It may help regulate the transport and effectiveness of calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus—nutrients central to muscle function, nerve conduction, and metabolic health. How Boron Is Measured in Urine Urinary boron testing reflects short-term intake or exposure, often over the past 24–48 hours. It can be affected by: Dietary intake (e.g., fruits, nuts, legumes, wine, and leafy greens are boron-rich) Supplement use (boron is present in many multivitamins or bone-support formulas) Environmental exposures (e.g., boron compounds used in certain industrial processes or cleaning products) The urine test by Mosaic Diagnostics provides a quantitative measure of how much boron is being excreted in urine. This helps clinicians evaluate whether an individual’s intake is adequate, deficient, or potentially excessive. Interpreting Your Boron Result Elevated Urinary Boron May indicate high dietary or supplemental intake Could be a result of recent exposure to boron-containing products (industrial, environmental, or cosmetic) Rarely, very high levels may be associated with toxicity, which might include symptoms like nausea, headache, skin irritation, or hormonal disruptions—though toxicity from dietary sources is uncommon In many cases, a slightly elevated result in an otherwise healthy person is not considered harmful, particularly if supplementation was recent Low or Decreased Urinary Boron May reflect inadequate dietary intake Could indicate poor absorption or increased utilization by the body Associated with suboptimal bone mineral metabolism and reduced effectiveness of vitamin D and magnesium May contribute to hormonal imbalances, decreased cognitive performance, or increased risk of inflammatory conditions May warrant dietary adjustments or low-dose supplementation if clinically appropriate What Affects Boron Levels? Several factors can influence urinary boron levels: Diet: Fruits (especially apples, grapes, pears), avocados, nuts, legumes, and leafy greens are rich in boron Supplementation: Even small doses of boron in supplements can raise urinary levels Hydration status: Affects urine concentration, which is why creatinine correction may be used Renal function: Boron is excreted via the kidneys, so impaired kidney function can alter excretion rates Environmental exposure: Contact with boron-based industrial products or detergents Summary Boron is a biologically active trace mineral that plays a subtle yet important role in supporting bone integrity, hormone regulation, cognitive function, and inflammation control. The "Essential Elements; urine" test by Mosaic Diagnostics provides insight into your body’s recent boron exposure and excretion. A result within the reference range generally reflects healthy intake and metabolism. Elevated or decreased levels should be interpreted in the context of symptoms, diet, supplement use, and other mineral levels. If your result is abnormal, your healthcare provider may recommend dietary changes, targeted supplementation, or further testing to assess nutrient balance and overall metabolic health. Let me know if you’d like this adapted for clinicians, or if you want companion descriptions for other elements in the panel (like magnesium, zinc, or lithium).
Boron is normally found in hair but the correlations among Boron absorption, and tissue and hair levels of Boron have yet to be determined. Boron has a low order of toxicity, but excessive intake induces riboflavinuria. Boron is frequently high in hair in association with high levels of potentially toxic elements (i.e. lead, mercury, and cadmium) and exposure to toxic chemicals. Exogenous contamination of hair with B is possible since B is present in some soap. Boron is also present in some cleaners, cements, ceramics and glass. Sources Of Boron Leafy vegetables, fruits, nuts, legumes, wine, cider and beer Functions In The Body Increases production of estrogen and testosterone Helps prevent osteoporosis and post-menopausal symptoms May be necessary for growth (animal experiments) Hair Analysis Notes Significance in the hair is unknown
a bacterium that can infect various species of vertebrates and invertebrates
Borrelia afzelii is a species of Borrelia, a bacterium that can infect various species of vertebrates and invertebrates. B. afzelii and B. garinii are the primary causes of Lyme disease in Europe and Asia. Coinfection by this Borrelia species with one or more pathogens can occur, carried by the vector, which appears to be in most cases the tick. In Europe the related genospecies Borrelia afzelii is associated with both EM and acrodermatitis chronica atrophicans (ACA), and several European studies have found compelling evidence for B. afzelii infection in patients with morphea.
a bacterium that can infect various species of vertebrates and invertebrates
What is Borrelia andersonii – IgG? Borrelia andersonii is a species of Borrelia, a genus of spiral-shaped bacteria that includes several species known to cause tickborne illnesses such as Lyme disease and relapsing fever. While Borrelia andersonii has not been definitively linked to human disease, it has been isolated from Ixodes ticks (the same ticks that transmit Lyme disease) and from wild animals in parts of North America, suggesting it may play a role in the broader ecology of tickborne infections. The IgG antibody test for Borrelia andersonii measures the body’s long-term immune response to this bacterium. IgG antibodies typically appear weeks after exposure and can remain in the bloodstream for months or even years, indicating past exposure or infection.
What is Borrelia andersonii – IgM? Borrelia andersonii is a species within the Borrelia genus, a group of spiral-shaped bacteria that includes known causes of Lyme disease and relapsing fever. Borrelia andersonii has been found in Ixodes ticks and certain wild animals in North America, but it is not currently recognized as a confirmed human pathogen. However, its presence on testing panels may indicate exposure to Borrelia bacteria or potential cross-reactivity with related species. The IgM antibody test for Borrelia andersonii detects early immune response—specifically IgM antibodies, which typically appear within 1–2 weeks of infection or exposure. This makes IgM testing useful for identifying recent or possible current exposure to Borrelia species.
enter the human body through tick bites
OSP stands for Outer surface proteins. Outer surface proteins are produced by the bacteria Borrelia burgdorferi which causes Lyme disease. OspA and OspB are upregulated when the bacteria enter the tick. OspA contributes to the colonization of the gut by the bacteria. OspB, OspC and OspE are major antigens on the surface of the Lyme disease spirochetes when it is being transmitted to humans. Borrelia burgorferi peptide mix: OspA of Borrelia b. sensu stricto, Borrelia afzelii, Borrelia garinii + OspC native + DbpA recombinant - special antigens with higher specificity than the lysate, due to less interfering factors; the antigens of the Borrelia burgdorferi OSP-mix are the most specific antigens from the lysate and lead to an overall higher significance. What is Lyme disease? Lyme disease is caused by a spirochete—a corkscrew-shaped bacterium called Borrelia burgdorferi. Lyme is called “The Great Imitator,” because its symptoms mimic many other diseases. It can affect any organ of the body, including the brain and nervous system, muscles and joints, and the heart. Patients with Lyme disease are frequently misdiagnosed with chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, multiple sclerosis, and various psychiatric illnesses, including depression. Misdiagnosis with these other diseases may delay the correct diagnosis and treatment as the underlying infection progresses unchecked.
enters the human body through tick bites