Baking soda has been used since ancient times as a deodorizer, soother, and cleanser, according to the natural health website Dr. Axe. Baking soda uses range from basic daily hygiene such as toothpaste to health benefits including heartburn. How can baking soda be beneficial?
Heartburn
Heartburn is also known as acid reflux, states the medical website Healthline. It is a painful, burning sensation that rises in the upper region of the stomach and can spread up into the throat. A few common causes of reflux are overeating, stress and eating greasy or spicy foods. Baking soda can help treat heartburn by neutralizing stomach acid. Dissolve a teaspoon of baking soda in a glass of cold water and drink the mixture slowly.
Deodorant
Dr. Axe explains how you can create a deodorant using baking soda. Create a deodorant by mixing a teaspoon of baking soda with enough water to create a milky baking soda paste, then rub it on the underarms or even on the feet.
Teeth whitening
Baking soda is a popular home remedy for whitening teeth, according to Healthline. This is likely because baking soda has mild abrasive properties that let it break the bonds of molecules that stain the teeth. It also has antibacterial and antimicrobial properties that can help fight harmful bacteria.
Facial scrub
A paste of baking soda and water makes a natural and gentle exfoliator for the face. Try making a paste by adding a little water to a tablespoon of baking soda and massage in to the face for 10-20 seconds (gently) before rinsing with warm water. Because this mixture is so alkaline, this isn’t recommended daily and is better as an occasional exfoliator.
Insect bites and poison ivy
Apply a paste made of baking soda and water to insect bites to help relieve itching, according to the health website Mercola. Try rubbing the dry powder onto your skin. This is also effective for itchy rashes and poison ivy. Baking soda helps to relieve minor skin irritation and itching by neutralizing toxins and irritants on the skin’s surface.
Calluses
Calluses are hard, rough patches of skin that are caused by longtime friction or pressure, according to Healthline. Activities that can cause calluses are frequent walking, gardening or sports. While calluses aren’t necessarily serious, they can cause pain and discomfort when applying pressure. Interestingly, studies have found that soaking calluses in a baking soda bath may help soften them, remove any scales and reduce discomfort.
Sources:
https://draxe.com/baking-soda-uses/
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/baking-soda-benefits-uses#section1
https://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2015/02/02/11-health-benefits-baking-soda.aspx
