Baking soda has myriad uses, not only in cooking but also in cleaning and as a natural remedy for bug bites and skin irritations. There is one ingredient in nearly every kitchen cupboard that can do wonders for your hair, skin and body. This inexpensive, multitasking item is nothing but baking soda! In fact, baking soda can help you look your best from head to toe. Baking soda is sodium bicarbonate, a natural substance that is crystalline but often appears as a fine powder. This alkaline substance has antibacterial, antifungal, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. It is also a powerful medical tool effective at combating everything from colds to oral problems to skin issues. Baking soda is effective when used for short periods. However, excessive use can damage your skin and hair.
- As an antiseptic and natural remedy for bug bites, including spider bites. A paste made from baking soda, water, and sometimes vinegar, can aid with inflammation and itching.
- Fights Acne and Pimples To get rid of acne or pimples, you do not need harsh chemicals. Baking soda will do the work easily. The antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties of this kitchen staple helps treat the cause as well as reduce the symptoms of acne and other breakouts. In addition, it helps balance the skin's pH, which helps reduce the occurrence of skin breakouts.
- As a baking agent in recipes. Baking soda works with acids such as lemon juice to aid in cooking. It acts as a leavening agent, causing batter to expand.
- As a stain remover on laundry. Rub it on the stains as a paste. Let it sit, then launder.
- As a shining agent for your floors. Add a cup to your mop water.
- Improves Skin Complexion Uneven skin tone is a major problem for many. If you want a brighter and even skin tone, baking soda is an easy and inexpensive solution. It is a good exfoliating agent that helps remove dead cells. In addition, it balances pH level of the skin, which is very important to maintain even and clear skin.
- As a polishing agent for tough stains on dishware, tubs and sinks. Rub it in with a sponge, then clean with soap and water. It scours nicely.
- As a natural toothpaste and mouth freshener, neutralizing mouth odor. Dip a wet toothbrush into baking soda and brush your teeth with it. Brightens Yellow Teeth Baking soda is excellent for making your pearly whites shine. It works as a mild abrasive to remove yellow stains from your teeth. In addition, it helps remove plaque by neutralizing acids produced by the bacteria. •You can simply put a little baking soda on your toothbrush along with your regular toothpaste. Brush your teeth as usual for 2 minutes. Do it once daily for a few days.
- As an enhancer for bleach in your laundry. Mix baking soda directly with bleach in your wash.
- To sanitize your dishwasher and coffee pot. Run baking soda in the water cycle in each machine.
- Treats Body Odor Baking soda is one of the best natural deodorizers that help treat mild to severe body odor. It helps absorb moisture and sweat from the skin, thereby reducing body odor. Being an antibacterial agent, it also helps kill bacteria that give rise to body odor. Combine 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 tablespoon of water and a few drops of any essential oil. Use a cotton ball to rub it on your underarms or areas where you sweat excessively. Use it regularly to fight body odor. Alternatively, thoroughly mix equal amounts of baking soda and cornstarch. Dust this powder onto your dry underarms to prevent sweating as well as bad odor.
- Treats Stained or Yellow Nails Stained nails can be unsightly, but baking soda can whiten your nails so you do not have to hide them in your pockets or gloves. Its bleaching and exfoliating properties help remove stains
