Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, is a white, crystalline, odorless, powdery substance, that is alkaline in nature. It has properties ranging from antimicrobial, antifungal, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory. Who knew something as simple as this, had so many benefits to it. Growing up I remember my mother putting an open box in the refrigerator as a medium for masking scents, but now new uses are in order.
Here are some of the most common uses of Baking Soda:
Make-up remover
Mixing this into a paste with water makes for an easy way to wash make-up off in just one rinse. Ensure to avoid the eyes when applying this.
Skin Exfoliator
Mix into a paste with water, honey, grapeseed or coconut oil. Add a drop of your favorite essential oil and gently massaging into circular motions (peppermint gives a cool refreshing feeling, try it!). This
rids dead skin cells and leaves your body feeling extremely soft and refined.
Acne and pimples
With its antimicrobial, antifungal, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, it balances the ph of the face and aids in tackling these annoying little face creatures. Make a pasta, add honey (optional) and apply. Leave on for 2-5mins and rinse. Pat dry and tell me how your face feels. This also absorbs oil that is normally associated with acne problems.
Teeth whitener
Gets rid of coffee, curry and cigarette smoking stained teeth. Mix into a paste and add a tablespoon of hydrogen peroxide and brush for 2mins. Rinse as usual. Do not use this for long periods as this can cause wearing of the enamel.
Hair care
No shampoo?... try mixing this into a paste and apply evenly throughout hair. One application will do. Also, persons transitioning to natural hair can use this to strip the hair. Follow through with your conditioner, style and go!
Itchy Skin/ Eczema
Need an itch reliever?... add some baking soda to warm bath water and soak. Do not rub, air dry instead. This remedy is even safe for the little ones.
Skin toner/ lightener
Add natural lemon juice to baking soda paste and apply daily. The baking soda exfoliates and the lemon juice lightens the skin. Great for uneven skin tones.
Deodorizer
Body: works by absorbing sweat and moisture that gives rise to body odor. This can be mixed into a paste with your favorite essential oil and add to underarms. Brush off excess and be on your way.
Refrigerator: Leave an open box of baking soda in the fridge, helps to mask scents. Last for a month.
Shoes: sprinkle in shoes overnight, in the morning, odorless shoes awaits you.
Sunburns
Its alkaline nature helps to soothe sunburn blisters. Make a paste with cold water and apply, no not rub. Leave on for 5min and rinse gently.
Hope these tips will be helpful to you. If you know of other ways to use baking soda, please feel free to comment with your suggestions below.
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