Bicarbonate of Soda

Bicarbonate of Soda – What is it and how to use it

Bicarbonate of Soda also known as Baking Soda or Sodium Bicarbonate or simply as Bicarb. Sodium bicarbonate is a white solid that is crystalline but often appears as a fine powder. Bicarb is a very effective (but gentle) abrasive and natural deodoriser.

Some uses of Bicarbonate of Soda

Kitchen

  • Clean stained & smelly plastic food containers
  • Absorb strong food odors from the fridge
  • Rinse fruit & veg to remove dirt and the waxy coating
  • Help unblock clogged drains
  • Eliminate odor from the garbage can
  • Clean burnt on pots & pans
  • Extinguish Oil & Grease fires
  • Bicarbonate of Soda is a rising agent in certain recipes

Personal Care

  • Treat heartburn
  • Use as a mouth wash
  • Whiten your teeth
  • Deodorant
  • Relieve itchy skin & sunburn

Bathroom

  • Airfreshner
  • Multi purpose cleaner
  • Toilet Fizzies to clean and deodorise in one step

General

  • Whiten laundry
  • Remove stubborn carpet stains
  • Polish Silverware
  • Weed Killer
  • Shoe Deodoriser
  • Clean a smelly pet bed

Sodium Bicarbonate Safety & Side effects

Bicarbonate of Soda is generally safe when it is used correctly.

When taken orally in correct doses and over a short term, it is likely safe.  Long term and excessive use internally have been reported to cause serious complications including stomach rupture and electrolyte imbalances.

When pregnant or breastfeeding it should be used with caution.

People with heart failure, liver disease, or other conditions associated with fluid build-up should use sodium bicarbonate with caution as it can cause excess fluids & swelling in the body.

Bicarb may increase blood pressure and lower potassium blood levels.  Anyone suffering with high blood pressure or low potassium blood levels should use caution when considering using Bicarb.

Sodium Bicarbonate decreases iron absorption in the body. Therefore people with iron deficiency should take Iron supplements and bicarb separately.

Always consult with your doctor or other medical professional before taking any self medication, especially if you are receiving medical treatment for any pre-existing condition.

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