Baking soda is undoubtedly the cheapest health remedy to be found anywhere in the world. It happens to be the most preferred and affordable addition to a home pharmacy simply because of its ability to combat anything from colds to even cancer. Its effectiveness as a natural deodorant and an oral health promoter has been well established. Sodium bicarbonate, or baking soda, as commonly known, helps regulate the acid build up in the human body, which is so critical to life itself. This powerful medical tool has numerous health benefits, some of which are detailed here.
Acid reflux, is a chronic digestive ailment in which the acids present in the stomach regurgitate towards the chest, hence causing burning sensations, bloating, belching, snoring and other undesired symptoms. Spicy, oily and fatty foods are the main reason behind this ailment. There are plenty of other commercial treatments but they are ineffective and expensive and have side effects. Treatment with baking soda is an effective and safe way to get rid of undesirable stomach related issues. Simply stir a teaspoon of baking soda in water and drink it on a regular basis to get instant relief from acid reflux. Baking soda is a renowned antacid, which is capable of neutralising acids, especially those present in the stomach.
A deodorant made from baking soda is the best way to combat body odour without subjecting it to unwanted chemicals like aluminium which are found in many deodorants and antiperspirants. Simply mix a pinch of baking soda with a little bit of water and apply it under the armpits like a thick paste. You can also wet your fingers with water and apply the baking soda to each armpit and spread the mixture evenly using a natural deodorant crystal. Finally, you can just apply some dry baking soda with a brush to your armpits.
Baking soda can give you an invigorating foot soak; just put your feet in warm water containing three tablespoons of baking soda. For extra exfoliation, rub the feet with a paste made out of three parts of baking soda powder and one part of water. It is not only natural and cheap, but can be used every day as it is gentle also.
Insect bites normally go unnoticed as the puncture is tiny and sometimes painless. However the after effects can be annoying and harmful, as apart from skin infection they can cause fatal diseases like malaria and dengue. For a natural remedy for insect bites, make a paste of baking soda and water and apply on the affected portion. Baking soda assists in relieving minor skin irritation by neutralising the toxins and irritants present on the surface of the skin. Adding half a cup of baking soda to your water during a bath helps soothe the skin from irritation and itchiness in persons suffering from psoriasis.
The very thought of digging into your skin with needles and tweezers to remove a splinter is regarded as terrifying for children and many adults as well. A simple painless way to remove splinters and deeply embedded glass shards as well, is by using baking soda. Add a tablespoon of baking soda to a glass of water and soak the affected area in it twice daily. After a couple of days of this treatment, the baking soda will cause the skin to swell and most of the splinters will come out on their own.
The versatility of baking soda, makes it an ideal and powerful cleansing implement. Added to water it can be made into an effective facial scrub that costs next to nothing and is equally, if not more, effective in removing dirt and oil, than its pricey counterparts found in department stores everywhere. The best way to go about it is by first preparing a creamy base for your face wash, using your favourite facial cleanser or working up a good lather with a gentle soap bar. Pour a teaspoon of baking soda and mix well into the creamy bade. Splash warm water on your face and hands and apply this paste in circular motions, especially on the affected areas. Baking soda can be irritating to some, so prolonged application is not recommended and the baking soda should be rinsed off after 30 seconds. Repeat this facial once a week for best results.
Dry shampoo is actually a powder which can be sprinkled on the hair to soak the excess oil in it, and make your hair clean without giving it a wash. Its popularity is increasing day by day as people get averse to the side effects of all the undesirable chemicals present in shampoos these days. The best homemade dry shampoo can be made from baking soda. Just store a small quantity of baking soda in a shaker and shake it directly on the hair roots. You may use a brush also to brush it on instead. The next important step is to carefully rub the baking soda in the scalp by gently massaging it. If you have darker hair, add some cocoa powder to the baking soda.
This site offers information designed for educational purposes only. You should not rely on any information on this site as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, or as a substitute for, professional counseling care, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about your health, you should always consult with a physician or other healthcare professional.