Not only in the culinary field, the benefits of baking soda for health also vary. In addition, baking soda is easy to obtain and the price is also affordable, so you can easily take advantage of it. Know what are the benefits that can be obtained from baking soda.
Baking soda or also known as sodium bicarbonate is a developer that is often used in the baking process.
In addition, baking soda has long been known for its health benefits, namely relieving stomach acid. This is because the alkaline content in baking soda reacts quickly to other acids in the vicinity. The alkaline nature can also provide other health benefits.
Benefits of Baking Soda for Health and Beauty
There are several benefits of baking soda for health that you can get, namely:
1. Cleans dental plaque
Dental plaque appears as a thin, yellow or white layer that sits between the teeth or along the gum line on the teeth. A study shows that the use of baking soda when brushing teeth can clean plaque and prevent gingivitis caused by dental plaque.
The abrasive properties of baking soda are beneficial for removing plaque, while the antibacterial and antimicrobial properties in it can be used to fight bacteria that cause problems in the teeth and mouth.
To remove plaque on your teeth, you can sprinkle a little baking soda on the toothpaste before brushing your teeth.
2. As an alternative to mouthwash
After brushing your teeth, you are encouraged to rinse your mouth with mouthwash. Mouthwash can reach the corners of the mouth and between teeth that are difficult to reach by a toothbrush.
Well, you can use baking soda as an alternative to mouthwash. Research shows that baking soda can remove food residue between your teeth and freshen your breath.
However, other studies suggest that baking soda does not significantly reduce levels of bacteria in the mouth, but increases the pH of saliva which can inhibit bacterial growth.
To get these benefits, dissolve 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda in half a glass of warm water and gargle for at least 10-15 seconds.
3. Dispel body odor
Did you know sweat is actually odorless? Body odor is produced from sweat mixed with bacteria. These bacteria then turn the sweat into acid. Because of its alkaline nature, baking soda can be used to neutralize body odor.
4. Relieves itching due to insect bites
Baking soda can be used to relieve itching from insect bites and bee stings. You only need to mix baking soda with a little water, then apply it to the itchy body area.
5. Overcoming acne
To treat acne, you can mix 2 teaspoons of baking soda and a little water. Apply the solution only on the acne-prone area, then leave it on for 20 minutes. After that, rinse thoroughly and apply moisturizer.
Applying baking soda all over the face is not recommended, because it can strip the natural oil layer that protects the skin.
6. Overcoming fungus on nails and feet
Fungi usually grow in areas of the body where the pH level is acidic. For example, on sweaty feet after wearing shoes all day.
Soaking your feet in warm water mixed with baking soda can prevent fungal growth. This method can also be used to treat yellowed toenails due to a fungal infection.
In addition, baking soda is also often used to smooth hair, facial cleansers, or as an ingredient scrub to smooth the skin. However, there is no scientific evidence regarding the benefits of baking soda for this.
On the other hand, it is not recommended that you use it regularly and in large quantities on your skin or hair, because baking soda can make your skin dry, red, and irritated, especially for those with sensitive skin.
If you want to know more about the benefits of baking soda or want to use baking soda to treat certain conditions, talk to your doctor to make sure it's safe.