by A. Sc.

Created on: July 21, 2009   Last Updated: December 19, 2011

Baking soda is one of those wonderful substances that has many different applications. It can be used to clean pipe drains, freshen carpets and can even be an ingredient in some kinds of candy. However, it's the health and beauty uses for baking soda that remain the most popular.

* Health Uses for Baking Soda *

1. Prevent Foot Odor and Wetness

If you suffer from sweaty and stinky feet, baking soda may just be the cure. Sprinkle some baking soda directly onto each foot before putting on a pair of socks and shoes. The baking soda will help prevent odor and absorb some of the moisture. As an added bonus, keeping your feet dry and clean with baking soda can sometimes help prevent athlete's foot.

2. Relive Itchy Skin

Regardless if it's due to allergies, sunburn or mosquito bite, itchy skin is annoying. You can help soothe itchy skin in two different ways using baking soda. Mixing a half cup of baking soda into a warm bath creates a soothing place to soak your skin. You can also mix a spoonful of baking soda with a few drops of water to create a thick paste. Apply the paste directly to the itching area and let dry completely.

3. Use as an Antacid.

Baking soda is a fantastic antacid that works quickly after ingestion. For immediate relief, mix a few teaspoons of baking soda into a glass of warm water. Drink the water slowly and you should start feeling a little better within a few minutes.

4. Treat a Heat Rash

Sprinkling a little baking soda over your skin can help alleviate the symptoms of a heat rash. The baking soda will help keep the area dry and protected. It will also help prevent the rash from becoming worse.

5. Resolve Allergies to Cleaning Agents

If you're one of the many people who have sensitive skin, or are allergic to most cleaning agents, try using baking soda instead. Baking soda can be used as a laundry detergent, facial cleanser and/or as a carpet deodorizer.

* Beauty Uses for Baking Soda *

1. Use as a Dry Shampoo

If you're in a pinch, in a rush or just going camping, baking soda can make a quick and easy dry shampoo. Sprinkle a little baking soda onto your dry hair, preferably near the scalp. Gently brush all the baking soda out of your hair. You now have slightly cleaner and better smelling hair.

2. Apply as an Acne Medication

Baking soda can help clear up minor acne breakouts. Mix a teaspoon of baking soda with a few drops of water. You want to create a thick, white paste. Apply the paste directly on the acne and let dry overnight. Wash your face in the morning as normal, removing the dried paste.

3. Create a Deodorizing Body Scrub

Due to baking soda's amazing deodorizing powers, using it is a great way to prevent foul odors. Just sprinkling a little baking soda under your arms can work as a quick way to prevent stinky armpits. However, why stop at your armpits? Mix together 1/4 cup baking soda with 1/4 cup Epsom salt. Use the mixture as a body scrub the next time you jump into the shower.

4. Whiten and Clean Teeth

Not only does baking soda make an effective toothpaste, it helps prevent bad breath. Baking soda is also mildly abrasive, which means it can gently clean away stains from tooth enamel. This makes baking soda toothpaste effective as a tooth whitening agent.

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