by Danie Russell

Created on: September 09, 2009   Last Updated: March 08, 2011

As a woman I know how important a beauty regimen is. I also know that to keep it up takes a great deal of money. After all cosmetic companies make billions of dollars selling their special creams and balms. In an effort to save money I began to search for a more natural way to care for myself. That's when I came across baking soda and all the amazing things it can do. These are my top 14 cost efficient and eco-friendly ways to use baking soda in your everyday life.

For beauty:

1. Make your own shampoo - Mix 1 tbsp baking soda and 1 cup of hot water. Pour mixture into an old bottle and use immediately. This can also be used to remove chlorine from the hair.

2. Best baths ever- when baking soda is added to your bathwater it has a softening effect on the skin. To make a soothing bubble bath mix 2 cups baking soda, 1 cup cornstarch and 2 cups cream of tartar then store in a covered container. Use 1 cup of this mixture in a full bath.

3. A remarkable facial- Mix 1 cup baking soda with 1/4 cup oatmeal in your blender slowly adding a tbsp of water to create a slightly thick paste. Apply to face let sit 5 to 10 minutes and then rinse with warm water.

4. Smelly hands or feet- If you have obtained odor stained hands or stinky feet then simply mix 4 parts baking Soda with 1 part water. Add this mix to a bottle of hand soap. Simply apply to hands, scrub, rinse and be odor free.

5. Lazy mans elbow- To get rid of rough dry patches on your elbows apply a mixture of 2 tbsp baking soda and 1 tbsp water. Let stand on elbows until dry then rinse away and enjoy smoother skin. By adding another tablespoon baking soda you'll create a thicker paste you can use to smooth dry and calloused feet.

6. Homemade deodorant- First apply cornstarch to your underarms using a powder puff or brush then apply baking soda using the same method.

7. Healthy refreshed nails- Scrub fingernails with a nailbrush dipped in baking soda. (This will also soften the cuticles.)

8. Whiting toothpaste- Mix 3 tbsp baking soda, 1 tbsp salt, 3 tbsp Glycerin, 15 drops of flavor (ex. Mint, cinnamon, berry) and just enough water to make a paste substance. Store paste in reusable squeeze bottle.

9. To clean dentures and mouth guards- Soak items in a mixture of 2 teaspoons baking soda and a cup of warm water. You can also use this solution to soak and clean your toothbrush.

For health:

10. Homemade Antacid- Mix 1/2 tsp baking soda in 1/2 cup of water and drink to relieve indigestion or heartburn. Be sure to read the antacid use information listed on the baking soda package before using. (WARNING DO NOT USE: If you are on restricted amounts of salt then you should not use this product as an antacid, for nausea, gas, cramps, bloating and/or stomach ache.)

11. Bee stings- Combine baking soda with water to create a very thick paste. Put it on the bee sting and let it sit to relieve the pain and itching.

12. Diaper rash- To help heal diaper rash place 3 tbsp of baking soda in a warm bath. Let babies bottom sit in it for fifteen minutes then wash as you normally do and dry area off well.

13. Cradle cap- To cure cradle cap apply a medium paste mix of baking soda and water. Apply to area and leave on overnight, rinse off in the morning with just water do not use soap or shampoo to rinse solution.

14. Urinary Tract Infections- Add 2 tsp of baking soda to a glass of water this will treat the symptoms of the urinary tract infection. This often does not get rid of the infection it will merely make you feel more comfortable by relieving the symptoms and discomfort.

It is advised to see a medical professional for any and all infections.

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