“Boric acid is found abundantly in the crater of Vulcano, one of the Lipari Islands;  but principally in a volcanic area of Tuscany where are found numerous fissures that emit hot aqueous vapor into lagoons and where the water gradually becomes impregnated with boric acid which can be collected by evaporation. Boric acid in combination with soda to form Borax that is supposed to exercise a specific influence over the uterus, promoting menstruation, exciting uterine contractions and facilitating parturition, and favoring the expulsion of the placenta. Also, deemed an aphrodisiac when used in the form of an enema.”       - 1858 U.S. Pharmocopia.