Silverfish boric acid is considered to be the original method of killing these critters. It is a tried and tested method and in this article, I'll tell you about the three ways that it can kill silverfish effectively. I'll also tell you about alternatives that you might want to think if you have pets or children at home.
Method #1 - Dessicant
Natural Ant Killer Boric Acid
The original presume that boric acid is often used to kill not just silverfish but also any insect is because it has suited desiccant properties. This means that it facilely absorbs moisture. So how might this be useful for killing silverfish?
When any insect comes into palpate with a highly absorbent substance, the liquid is no ifs ands or buts sucked out of its body and it fast dies because they are all the time on the hunt for moisture and need it to survive.
Think of it as like using a towel to dry your hair. The towel absorbs the moisture out of your hair but your skin is a barrier. Insects have no such skin and therefore no security from a desiccant like silverfish boric acid.
Method #2 - Abrasive
Boric acid is also highly abrasive. Silverfish have very fragile exoskeletons. This means that if they accidentally rub against boric acid powder or try to push their way straight through it then they can break apart and die.
Method #3 - Toxic
Boric acid is also a toxin. If silverfish eat it then it will destroy them from the insides. Human beings need to eat hundreds of kilograms worth for it to have the same result so there is no immediate danger from boric acid. However, there are still some concerns about its long term effects (see below).
Natural Alternatives To Boric Acid
This acid is rated as safe for use as an insecticide. However, some studies show that it may have long term side effects, even when used in low, "safe" doses.
Personally speaking, if someone told me that they have children or pets in the house then I would recommend against it. For example, one study has shown that it can sway the testes of dogs that eat it. Who knows what the long term effects might be?
One good natural alternative is a "botanical" insecticide powder. While it is wholly non-toxic, it is still a suited desiccant and grinder and undoubtedly good adequate for getting rid of silverfish.
Silverfish Boric Acid - scrutinize the 3 Ways That Boric Acid Can Kill Silverfish