Content Baking soda is commonly used in cooking, but after learning about its most important health benefits and most popular household uses, you'll never be without it.
What is Baking Soda? Baking Soda
It is a white crystalline powder, popularly used in baked goods as it has leavening properties that help dough rise by producing carbon dioxide. The scientific name for baking soda is sodium bicarbonate.
Benefits of Baking Soda
Sodium bicarbonate has many therapeutic benefits, the most prominent of which are:
1. Treating Heartburn
Heartburn causes pain and a burning sensation in the upper stomach area (mouth of the stomach).
One of the most common causes of heartburn is overeating, especially fatty or spicy foods. Stress and anxiety can also lead to acid reflux.
However, it's worth noting that using baking soda may help treat heartburn. Dissolve a quarter teaspoon of baking soda in a cup of cold water and drink the mixture slowly.
Note: Do not overuse baking soda, as it contains a high percentage of sodium, to avoid any potential side effects.
You should also consult your doctor to monitor the progress of your condition.
2. Treating Insect Bites: Using baking soda may help soothe the redness and itching caused by insect bites.
Many commercial creams contain this ingredient, but it is not recommended for daily use on the skin.
3. Benefits of Baking Soda for Teeth
Another health benefit of baking soda is that it can be used as a mouthwash by mixing half a teaspoon of it in a cup of water for gargling.
You can also use mouthwashes or toothpastes that contain it, as they may help fight tooth decay, whiten teeth, maintain healthy gums, and freshen breath.
4. Treating Mouth Ulcers
Using baking soda may help treat mouth ulcers or canker sores, which are small, painful blisters that may be found in the lining of the mouth or on the gums.
5. Natural Deodorant
Baking soda can be used as a natural deodorant by applying it to the armpits to eliminate the unpleasant odor caused by bacteria in the armpit area.
6. Treating Sunburn
It may also help soothe the itching caused by sunburn by preparing a baking soda bath: add 1 to 2 cups of baking soda to water, then soak the affected area in it.
Some believe it may be more effective when combined with other ingredients, such as oatmeal or cornstarch.
7. Slowing the progression of chronic kidney disease
Some studies have shown that people with chronic kidney disease who took sodium bicarbonate supplements were about 36% less likely to develop the disease than those who did not take the supplements.
Note: Consult your doctor before using this product to treat any medical condition, including kidney disease.
8. Aids in the treatment of cancer
Some laboratory studies conducted on animals have indicated that using baking soda alongside chemotherapy for cancer may make it more effective in slowing or stopping the growth of cancer cells by making the environment less acidic for tumors.
However, these are preliminary studies and further studies on humans are needed.
Is baking soda good for hair?
Some people believe that baking soda dissolved in water can help remove excess oils and restore shine to hair, but others have objected to its use. Its use has damaged hair over time. This has been confirmed by numerous scientific studies, which have found that baking soda has a high acidity, which dries out the scalp. Prolonged use can damage hair and irritate the scalp.
Most Common Household Uses
Sodium bicarbonate has many uses for household purposes, the most prominent of which are:
1. Eliminating unpleasant odors
Sodium bicarbonate helps eliminate unpleasant odors from various objects, such as those emanating from the refrigerator, dishwasher, trash can, and other items.
2. Air Freshener
Sodium bicarbonate is a good alternative to synthetic air fresheners, which may contain chemicals.
To make a baking soda air freshener, follow these steps:
Ingredients:
1/3 cup baking soda, 10 to 15 drops of essential oil, a piece of cloth or paper, string, and a jar. Preparation Instructions: Add the baking soda and essential oils to a jar. Cover the jar with a piece of cloth or paper.
It's held in place with string or tape, and when the scent begins to fade, shake the jar.
3. Kitchen Cleaner
It helps remove tough stains and eliminate unpleasant odors.
To use it for cleaning purposes:
You can make a paste of it by mixing it with a small amount of water. Then, apply the paste to a sponge.
Scrub the surface you want to clean, such as ovens and colored marble. It can also be used to polish tarnished silver.
4. Bathroom Cleaner
For natural cleaning and avoiding commercial cleaners, you can use baking soda to bleach and disinfect bathroom surfaces, such as bathroom tiles, toilets, and bathtubs.
All you have to do is wipe the surfaces in the same way as mentioned above for 15 to 20 minutes.
However, it may be less effective than commercial cleaners due to the many chemicals they contain.
5. Cleaning Fruits and Vegetables
Recent research has indicated that the most effective way to remove pesticide residue from the surfaces of fruits and vegetables is to soak them in a baking soda solution for approximately 12 to 15 minutes.
Baking Soda Harmful Effects
Some athletes may drink large amounts of baking soda before exercising to boost athletic performance. This is called "soda loading," but it's a bad habit that can make you sick if consumed excessively.
Some people may also experience an allergic reaction to baking soda.
Common side effects may include:
Feeling bloated, increased gas, increased thirst, and stomach cramps. If you experience any of the above symptoms, stop using it and consult a doctor.