Baking soda or sodium bicarbonate is an antifungal and an antiseptic which can form an n important place in the beauty routine. It helps in exfoliating the skin, softens the toughest callouses and cleans the hair. It has several medicinal uses as well. It is helpful in treating cancer, kidney problems and several skin problems.
Health benefits of baking soda
Antacid
Itchy skin
Prevention of skin from infections
Nail treatment
To remove the dead skin present around the nails, dip a smooth brush in the baking powder and scrub it gently.
Removes bacteria
Kidney disease
Bicarbonate is an alkaline substance that is naturally produced in the body which helps to keep the pH in check. In cases of diabetes and hypertension when kidneys do not function properly it becomes difficult to remove the acids from the body. Studies have shown that such cases are cured with oral sodium carbonate which helps to slow down the decline rate of the kidneys.
Cancer
It has been found that bicarbonate can increase the pH of tumours without disturbing the pH of the blood. Sodium therapy has also been adopted to provide support tothe immune system for cancer patients.
Occasional heartburn and indigestion
Baking soda is an effective way to relieve occasional heartburn and indigestion. Mix one spoon baking soda in a cup of water and take it an hour after meals.
Dermatological conditions
Baking soda helps to soothe itchiness and irritation in patients suffering from psoriasis. The discomfort of sunburn, insect bites, allergic rashes, and skin exposed to poisonous plants can be reduced by applying a paste of baking soda and water.
Oral health
Baking soda is used in making many toothpastes and mouthwashes as it has the property to increase the removal of plague.
Beauty benefits of baking soda
Mouthwash
Skin care
Feet care
Natural deodorant
Shampoo
An all-over scrub
Baking soda makes an excellent over all scrub for nourishing, refreshing and exfoliating the skin gently. Make a paste using oatmeal, soda and water and rub it on the skin gently to remove the dead skin cells. Wash with warm water and clean the skin.
Hair care with baking soda
Baking soda helps to get rid of the build-up product in the hair. Sprinkle some baking soda on the hair before shampooing the hair. The baking soda will clear the residue and clean the hair.
Manicure
Baking soda can be rubbed on the cuticles of the nails before doing manicure to clean them.. Rinse the fingers and nails with warm water
Soften tough calluses
The calluses on the feet can be softened by soaking the feet in a basin of warm water to which baking soda has been added. Then scrub the calluses with a paste of baking soda, brown sugar and water. Apply a rich moisturiser and wear warm socks.
Bath soak
Baking soda added in the bath tub helps to neutralise the acids on the skin and clear away the oil and perspiration. It softens and soothes the skin by calming the irritants caused by bites, skin irritation and sunburn.
A deodorant
Baking soda can be used as a deodorant by mixing it with any essential oil and applying it under the arms with a brush.
An acne spot-treatment
A paste of baking soda and water can be applied on the pimples.