It is also odorless and contains no volatile solvents. Boric acid is a white, inorganic powder chemically derived from boron and water. Boron is mined from vast mineral deposits in the ground and is used in countless consumer products, including laundry additives, toothpaste and mouthwash. Boric acid insecticide formulations can be purchased at hardware and grocery stores. Formulations sold in plastic, squeeze-type bottles with narrow applicator tips are the easiest to use.
Cockroaches succumb to boric acid when they crawl over treated areas.
The tiny particles of powder adhere to the cockroaches' body, and the material is ingested as the roach preens the powder from its legs and antennae. Some boric acid is also absorbed through the greasy outer covering of the insect's body. All species of cockroaches are susceptible to boric acid provided the powder is applied into areas where the roaches are living. The key to success with boric acid is proper application. For best results, the powder should be applied in a very thin layer barely visible to the naked eye .