There are three closely linked... (I personally use the capsule Boron which is working!)

Boric Acid
Boron
and Borax

If you don't want the chalky borax, the boron comes in capsule form and is much easier to take! IMHO

Not that I trust government, but here is more info for anyone...

https://www.cfs.gov.hk/eng...

Thanks! 🤗

Borax/Boric Acid is the pool industry best kept secret. Ok, maybe not so much anymore thanks to the internet, but it was rather controversial about a decade ago or so. Probably caused by big business to instill fear to pool owners from using it. Why?
1.) Natural algaecide. Algae has a hard time of growing. Means lower chlorine consumption ($ saved) and easier on the skin. I had instances when chlorine levels were zero & the boron in the pool prevented a full bloom algae outbreak.
2.) pH buffer. Stabilizing pH is every owner's headache because of the variables that is required to maintain water balance. Borax/boric acid helps stabilize pH, saving time and money.
3.) Softer water. Water feels noticeably softer. Feel great on the skin. Especially, in salt water pools.
4.) Sparkle. The water sparkles when you add this to the pool. There's no mistaking it; it's beautiful to look at.
I prefer using boric acid over borax because it requires less maintenance & chemicals to balance.