Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, is a versatile household item that can be used for various purposes, including cooking, cleaning, and personal hygiene. But did you know that baking soda also offers several health benefits? In this article, we’ll explore 12 health benefits of baking soda.
1. Relieves Heartburn
Baking soda is an effective antacid that can neutralize stomach acid, providing relief from heartburn. Simply dissolve ½ teaspoon of baking soda in a glass of water and drink it to relieve heartburn.
2. Treats Urinary Tract Infections
Baking soda can help treat urinary tract infections (UTIs) by reducing the acidity of urine, making it more difficult for bacteria to grow. Add ½ teaspoon of baking soda to a glass of water and drink it to help alleviate UTI symptoms.
3. Soothes Skin Irritations
Baking soda can be used topically to soothe skin irritations such as insect bites, sunburns, and rashes. Mix a tablespoon of baking soda with water to form a paste, apply it to the affected area, and leave it on for 10-15 minutes before rinsing off.
4. Whitens Teeth
Baking soda can help whiten teeth by removing surface stains. Mix a small amount of baking soda with water to form a paste, brush your teeth with the paste for two minutes, and then rinse your mouth with water.
5. Fights Bad Breath
Baking soda can help freshen breath by neutralizing odor-causing bacteria in the mouth. Mix 1 teaspoon of baking soda with water and swish it in your mouth for 30 seconds before spitting it out.
6. Relieves Itchy Skin
Baking soda can help relieve itchy skin caused by conditions such as chickenpox, hives, and poison ivy. Add a cup of baking soda to a warm bath and soak in it for 20-30 minutes to soothe itchy skin.
7. Reduces Muscle Pain
Baking soda can help reduce muscle pain and fatigue by neutralizing lactic acid buildup in the muscles. Add a cup of baking soda to a warm bath and soak in it for 20-30 minutes to relieve muscle pain.
8. Treats Gout
Baking soda can help treat gout by reducing the uric acid levels in the body. Add ½ teaspoon of baking soda to a glass of water and drink it three times a day to help alleviate gout symptoms.
9. Alleviates Canker Sores
Baking soda can help alleviate the pain and discomfort of canker sores by neutralizing the acid in the mouth. Mix 1 teaspoon of baking soda with water and swish it in your mouth for 30 seconds before spitting it out.
10. Relieves Acid Reflux
Baking soda can help alleviate acid reflux symptoms by neutralizing stomach acid. Mix ½ teaspoon of baking soda with a glass of water and drink it to relieve acid reflux symptoms.
11. Reduces Allergies
Baking soda can help reduce allergies by neutralizing histamine, a chemical that triggers allergic reactions. Mix 1 teaspoon of baking soda with a glass of water and drink it to help alleviate allergy symptoms.
12. Promotes Kidney Health
Baking soda can help promote kidney health by reducing the risk of kidney stones. Add ½ teaspoon of baking soda to a glass of water and drink it daily to help maintain a healthy pH balance in the kidneys.
In conclusion, baking soda is more than just a household item – it offers several health benefits that can help improve your overall wellbeing. From soothing skin irritations to promoting kidney health, baking soda is a versatile and affordable natural remedy. However, it’s important to use baking soda in moderation and to consult with a healthcare professional before using it to treat any health conditions.
