Simple Chemistry

In Hong Kong, finding something one needs isn't as simple as looking where one would expect to find it.

Such was the case with boric acid.

I've been trying to find it for weeks without success. As with other items I've had trouble locating, I found it on a whim.

Why boric acid? Research into alternative forms of insect control revealed it's safe and effective. No, we don't have another cockroach problem, thank God, but a minor annoyance with silverfish. They aren't rapid breeders, and powdered boric acid is an excellent way to kill them off.

Armed with that knowledge, I set out to find it. I checked grocery stores and department stores first. No joy.

I thought plumbing supply shops might carry it. Nada.

I searched high and low. No one seemed to understand what I wanted, as though they'd never heard of it. Judging by their blank stares, they probably hadn't.

The tiny corner dispensary proved to be the answer. I went there looking for a bottle of hydrogen peroxide, because Hong Kong's two major pharmacy chains couldn't be bothered to carry something so basic.

During the purchase, I asked the owner if he knew where I might find boric acid. Three seconds later, a small box of it sat on the counter.

Made. My. Freaking. Day. I was so delighted I bought five boxes, which should be plenty. I made a mental note that from now on, should I need special chemicals, I'll visit the dispensary first.

I should have realised it before, and now it makes sense: in Hong Kong, as in England, dispensaries are also known as chemists.

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