Did you know that the most astounding thing in your kitchen right now is not your smart fridge or magnifying spoon (yes, there is such a thing) but the ever-reliable baking soda? Sodium bicarbonate has been around since 3500 BC but no modern device can come close to its versatility and genuine badassery – in a good way, of course.
Baking Soda First Aid Hacks and Health Benefits
Treats insect bites
When you’re bitten by an insect, say a mosquito, simply mix some baking soda and water to make a paste then apply it on the affected area. It will help relieve the itch and dissipate the bite.
Treats diaper rash
When you’re baby has diaper rash, add a couple of tablespoons of baking soda in his or her bathwater to relieve the rashes.
Relieves itchiness
Relieve itch caused by poison ivy, allergies, and sunburn by applying paste made from one teaspoon of baking soda and warm water. For severe sunburn, soak in a bath of warm water and half a cup of this amazing kitchen staple.
For heartburn and indigestion
If you’re suffering from indigestion or heartburn, the safest way to treat them is to drink two cups of water mixed with half a teaspoon of baking soda an hour after your meal.
Muscle pain relief
During a rigorous exercise or activity, lactic build up and muscle damage result to soreness. Baking soda mixed with water will help relieve the pain as it neutralizes the acidity.
Keeps kidney healthy
Researchers have determined that sodium bicarbonate keeps the kidney from declining rapidly among patients suffering from chronic kidney disease.
Fights the spread of cancer
Perhaps the most impressive benefit of sodium bicarbonate, if proven true, is its supposed ability to ward off cancer. There’s quite a debate going on about the link between sodium bicarbonate and cancer. Some believe it can prevent cancer while some studies showed it can only slow down the growth of cancer cells on patients who already have cancer.
Alleviates Side Effects of Chemotherapy
People going through chemotherapy suffer from undesirable changes to the mouth and throat. Rinse with a mixture of 1/4 teaspoon baking powder, 1/8 teaspoon sea salt, and 1 cup warm water three times a day. Rinse with plain water afterwards.
Household Hacks
Cleans combs and brushes
Most people forget to clean their combs or brushes. This will lead to build up of natural oil. Prevent this by soaking them in warm water with a teaspoon of baking soda.
Washing baby clothes
Babies have sensitive skin that’s why you must use chemical-free laundry detergent to wash their clothes. Add half a cup of baking soda to the detergent to help it clean better.
Unclogs sink
For clogged sinks, simply pour one cup of baking soda followed by a cup of vinegar into the drain.
Cleaning shower head
Unclog your shower head by mixing 1/3 cup baking soda and one cup vinegar in a plastic bag. Tie the bag o the shower head making sure it is submerged in the solution. The following day, clean then let the shower run before taking a bath.
Polishing silver
Mix equal parts of sodium bicarbonate and water to make a paste. Rub it on your silver with a clean cloth or a soft-bristled toothbrush before rinsing and drying thoroughly.
Gets rid of ants
Are ants bothering you? Mix equal portions of baking soda and salt and sprinkle it on those tiny critters to get rid of them.
Keeps flowers fresh
To keep flowers from wilting fast, put one teaspoon of baking soda in its vase.
Air freshener
Keep your home smelling great by mixing 1/2 cup baking soda and at least 15 drops of essential oil in a small jar.
Personal hygiene
Cleans and whitens teeth
Sodium bicarbonate is a better alternative to toothpaste. Simply dip your toothbrush into some baking soda and brush away. You can also add some to your toothpaste if you prefer that familiar minty flavor.
Freshens breath
Mix one teaspoon of baking soda in a glass of water and use it as a mouthwash to get rid of bad breath.
Keeps dentures clean
Dissolve two teaspoons of baking soda in a cup of warm water then soak your dentures or retainers to clean and keep them from smelling.
Prevents body odor
Over-the-counter deodorants contain aluminum, whose main job is to block the sweat glands. However, studies have shown a link between aluminum and Alzheimer’s disease. To be on the safe side, pat some baking soda or mix a teaspoon with water to create a paste and then put it under your arms.
Softens hands
Rub some baking soda and water mixture on your hands to keep them clean, soft and free of odor.
Keeps feet healthy
If you have nasty feet, soak them in a foot bath made of warm water and one tablespoon of baking soda. This will keep bacteria away and get rid of foul smell.
For washing hair
After a busy day, your hair will likely be sticky, oily and dirty. Clean your hair thoroughly by adding baking soda to your favorite shampoo.
Pets and Other Animals
Bathe your dog
Keep your dog smelling clean and fresh by using baking soda as a dry shampoo by simply sprinkling and then rubbing it on your pet. You can also add it to your dog’s bath water.
Deodorizes litter box
A cat’s litter box is nasty little thing. Keep it from smelling by adding some baking soda to the cat litter.
Anti-skunk odor
If you live in a place where skunks are prevalent, your pets have probably been sprayed with their stinky smell. Remove the skunk smell by bathing your pets with a solution of 1/4 baking soda, 1 quart hydrogen peroxide, and 1 teaspoon grease-cutting detergent.
We could only squeeze in 26 fascinating ways of using baking soda but it doesn’t end there for sure. In fact, its versatility earns it a place in your prepper pantry. Comment below and share how you’ve used sodium bicarbonate in ways other than baking and cooking.
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