Baking soda is a common staple in many kitchens, used for home cleaning and in cooking as well. But this safe, accessible ingredient can be used in several personal hygiene and health recipes too! Try using baking soda in these natural recipes, which serve various purposes, from skin care to helping treat acid reflux.
1. Baking Soda As A Deodorant
You don’t have to solely rely on chemical-loaded antiperspirants, which can cause nasty allergic reactions(1) in many individuals. In addition, aluminum filled deodorants may be linked to cases of breast cancer(2). Baking soda deodorant is effective, easy to make and safer to use.
Simply mix a teaspoon of baking soda with a small amount of water – enough to create a milky paste. Spread the paste in a thin layer under your armpits.
The baking soda will neutralize body odour naturally.
2. Baking Soda For Skincare
Baking soda can be a powerful exfoliate – try soaking your feet in warm water with baking soda to help get rid of the dead skin that can build up on your feet!(3)
However, some caution should be used when you’re applying baking soda to your skin. Definitely never use it as skincare for infants(4), and exercise common sense when it comes to using it on your face – baking soda is a 9 on the pH scale, while your skin has a pH of around 4.5 to 5.
While some people, including celebrities, swear by baking soda as a facial cleaners(5), if you try it out and notice a burning sensation where you’ve applied the baking soda, wash the baking soda off with water immediately.
3. Baking Soda For Insect Bites
While it may not be recommended to use baking soda as a facial scrub, it can certainly help ease the pain and irritation of insect bites.
Simply make a paste using baking soda and a little water – similar to the technique used in making baking soda deodorant – and apply it to the bug bite directly(6).
4. Baking Soda Toothpaste
Baking soda is often used in commercial toothpaste, but if you want to try making your own toothpaste, it’s surprisingly easy!
Mix together 2/3rds of a cup of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 10-15 drops of peppermint essential oil with enough water to form the mixture into a thick paste.
5. Baking Soda For Acid Reflux And Ulcer Pain Relief
Baking soda is also a common ingredient in antacids, which are used to treat acid reflux, heartburn and pain associated with ulcers.
According to the Mayo Clinic, to relieve heartburn or “sour stomach”, adults and teenagers can take between 1 and 2 1/2 teaspoonfuls of baking soda in a glass of cold water after meals(7).
Now you know the many uses for baking soda that go beyond baking and housecleaning, so be sure to stock up the next time you’re grocery shopping – you never know when it might come in handy.