Boric acid (

H3BO3cap H sub 3 cap B cap O sub 3
H3BO3
) is a versatile, weak inorganic acid used primarily as an industrial antiseptic, insecticide (especially for cockroaches), and in manufacturing glass, ceramics, and preservatives. Medical applications include treating vaginal infections (candidiasis/bacterial vaginosis) and mild eye infections (as an eyewash)
. It is generally low in toxicity if ingested in small amounts, but exposure can cause skin/eye irritation.