Sodium Bicarbonate for Health and Personal Hygiene

Currently there are an endless amount of products on the market that are created for home and personal hygiene.  Unfortunately a lot of these products aren’t very safe if they’re used in large quantities or for long periods of time, as they contain toxic agents.  Sodium bicarbonate, however, is a good option for everyone one that is searching for a natural alternative to these products, and for people that want to promote health.

Sodium bicarbonate

Sodium bicarbonate is an alkaline compound that, when used frequently, can balance pH levels.  This substances also has the ability to remove odors, stains, and to fight infections and detoxify the body.  That’s why it is considered a great ally for health.

For personal cleansing

Toothpaste: Sodium bicarbonate can be used to clean your teeth, all you need to do is place a bit on your toothbrush and then brush your teeth.  Remember not to brush too hard.  Sodium bicarbonate also promotes good tooth and gum health.

Fighting bad breath: Add one teaspoon of sodium bicarbonate to half a glass of water and rinse your mouth.  Gurgle with the mixture to neutralize odors.

Exfoliating skin: The small crystals in sodium bicarbonate can be used to exfoliate skin.  Prepare a mixture using 1 Tablespoon of water with two Tablespoons of sodium bicarbonate and apply to the skin you wish to exfoliate.  Gently massage in a circle.  Rinse and dry well.  You may repeat this procedure up to two times a week.

Natural deodorant: Sodium bicarbonate can be used as a deodorant.  To do so, apply a bit to the underarms in the morning or after showering.

For hair: If you want your hair to be more manageable and softer, you can also use sodium bicarbonate.  Place a bit of the bicarbonate in your shampoo and wash as you normally do.  Your hair will be cleaner.

Fighting foot odor: Prepare a bath or deep bowl with warm water and 3-4 Tbsp. sodium bicarbonate.  Soak your feet and gently rub them.  Soak your feet for around 10 minutes, and then dry them.  Allow them to air dry, repeat daily until the bad odor disappears.

Health benefits of sodium bicarbonate

Sodium bicarbonate can be used to directly benefit health, if used correctly.

Keep in mind that if you’re going to consume sodium bicarbonate you should only do so for relatively short periods of time, not for prolonged periods.  This could affect mineral and vitamin levels in your body.

Antacid: Sodium bicarbonate is frequently used as an antacid because it helps balance pH levels.  It alleviates stomach acid, indigestion, and even heartburn or gastrointestinal reflux.

Treating insect bites: Bicarbonate can be used to alleviate insect bites, like mosquito bites.  We recommend making a paste with it and a bit of water, and gently rub the area.  You shouldn’t use this preparation with stings because in this case, it may be better to see a doctor.

Softening skin: If you want to relax and have softer skin, fill your bathtub with warm water and add half a cup of sodium bicarbonate to it.  This will create a calming effect on the skin and will also provide a relaxing experience for you.

Removing splinters: If you got a splinter and you can’t pull it out, try this remedy.  Add one teaspoon of sodium bicarbonate to one glass of water, and dip or finger or the affected area into the water.  Repeat for one week if necessary.

For kidney health: Whenever the kidneys have problems eliminating the body’s acids due to general complications associated with hypertension or diabetes, you can benefit from sodium bicarbonate.  This helps to balance the body’s pH levels, preventing greater kidney deterioration.

Against cancer: Bicarbonate’s alkalizing properties are being studies today as an alternative treatment against cancer and tumor growth.  According to studies, the alkaline medium can prevent tumor growth, however more studies are needed to prove efficacy.

Good digestion: If you feel like your digestion is heavy, you have heartburn and want to alleviate your symptoms, dissolve half a teaspoon of bicarbonate in half a glass of water and drink one to two hours after eating.

For skin: A recent study showed that using half a glass of sodium bicarbonate in your bath water can help calm skin irritation for individuals with psoriasis.  This can also be useful for sun burnt skin.

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