Did you know that a box of baking soda that you may have forgotten about in your kitchen, perhaps in the fridge, can actually do wonders? Not only does it eliminate bad breath, whiten teeth, but it can also be used to treat certain diseases. But how does this happen? Let's talk about it simply. It is very important to be aware of how to use it properly, as well as when it is not good to use it.
What is the secret of baking soda?
Baking soda gets this ability because of its chemical nature. Let's understand this simply. Scientifically, it is also called Sodium Bicarbonate.
The secret lies in the two letters `pH`. To be precise, this is a measure of whether something is acidic or alkaline . Baking soda is an alkaline substance. This means that when it is combined with something acidic, it changes its `pH` value and neutralizes it. It is because of this ability that it can quickly reduce stomach inflammation and eliminate bad breath.
The 'Dos' of Baking Soda
Okay, so let's see what benefits we can get from baking soda.
Relief from stomach inflammation
Many people experience discomfort when they experience stomach pain or heartburn, such as gastritis. In such cases, mixing a teaspoon (1/4) of baking soda in a glass of water and drinking it will neutralize the acid in the stomach and provide quick relief.
But remember, not all stomach upsets are caused by acidity, like gastritis. So if your symptoms don't improve, be sure to see your doctor.
Also, most importantly, if you are taking other medications, do not take baking soda within two hours of taking them. This is because reduced stomach acid can reduce the absorption of some medications. Do not give it to a child under 6 years of age without consulting a doctor.
When bitten by insects
If you have been bitten by an ant or mosquito and your skin is red, swollen, and itchy, baking soda is a good remedy. You can make a thick paste of one part baking soda to three parts water and apply it to the area. This will greatly reduce the itching and inflammation. You can also use this mixture for eczema and rashes.
Maintain oral health
Baking soda helps prevent tooth decay and keep gums healthy. You can get these benefits by using toothpaste containing baking soda. Also, rinsing your mouth with half a teaspoon of baking soda dissolved in a glass of water can help eliminate bad breath.
Eliminate bad odors
The smell of something like rotten fish in the fridge is alkaline. The smell of something like spoiled milk is acidic. Whatever the smell, baking soda can neutralize it and eliminate the smell. Try putting some baking soda in a small box and placing it in a corner of the fridge. You can also control the smell by sprinkling a little in the trash can.
As an aid to cancer treatment
This is a very important and sensitive issue. No scientific research has found that baking soda cures cancer. It is important to remember that.
However, research shows that it can increase the effectiveness of some cancer treatments (chemotherapy). Some chemo drugs require an alkaline environment. In such cases, doctors may suggest using sodium bicarbonate. This is a decision that your oncologist should make, not you alone.
Mouth ulcers are a common side effect of chemotherapy. If this happens, rinsing your mouth with a solution of 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda and 1/8 teaspoon of salt in 1 cup of warm water three times a day, followed by rinsing with plain water, can help.
For kidney patients
Some kidney patients' kidneys are unable to adequately remove the acid from the blood. For such people, daily administration of sodium bicarbonate, as advised by their doctor, can help control the blood's pH. This should also be done under medical advice.
Don't use baking soda for these things! (The 'Don'ts')
Like everything, there are times when it's not a good idea to use baking soda. Let's be aware of that too.
Do not rub your skin frequently.
Our skin is naturally slightly acidic. This is what keeps the skin moist and protects it from harmful bacteria. Applying baking soda to the skin frequently, especially for someone with sensitive skin, can damage this natural defense, dry out the skin, and cause allergies. Therefore, it is not good to apply it to the skin every day, except in an emergency, such as an insect bite.
Do not use on hair.
Some people use a mixture of baking soda and apple cider vinegar on their hair instead of shampoo. Although it may make their hair shiny at first, over time, this can dry out, tangle, and break. Our scalp and hair are naturally acidic. Continuous use of something alkaline is not good for your hair.
Don't drink to improve your athletic performance.
Some runners drink a lot of baking soda dissolved in water before a race. This is called 'soda loading'. Although it is believed that this can reduce the accumulation of lactic acid in the muscles, if you do this too often or too much, it can make you sick. It can cause stomach upset and vomiting. So don't try this.
| Good things to do (Dos) | Things not to do (Don'ts) |
|---|---|
| As a relief for indigestion. | Apply to the skin every day. |
| As a relief for insect bites. | Using shampoo to wash hair. |
| As a mouthwash to eliminate bad breath. | Drinking to enhance athletic performance without medical advice. |
| To control bad odors (e.g. in the fridge). | Taking it with other medications. |
| As an adjunct to cancer and kidney disease on medical advice. | Using it as a standalone treatment for serious illnesses without medical advice. |
Take-Home Message
- Baking soda is a good home remedy for minor ailments like stomach aches and insect bites.
- However, it is not good to apply this to your skin every day or use it on your hair.
- If you are using baking soda for serious conditions like cancer or kidney disease, it should only be done under the advice of a doctor.
- If you suspect any symptoms or if using baking soda does not help, seek medical advice immediately. Don't just do whatever you feel like doing.
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