Discover the Benefits of a Mixture of Baking Soda and Honey
On their own, both baking soda and honey can be natural remedies with various benefits and applications. They can be used both for personal health and beauty and even for household cleaning and in cooking recipes.
However, in addition, if we combine baking soda with honey, we can get a powerful natural dermatological treatment that’s ideal for cleaning the skin and curing conditions like acne. In this article, we’ll tell you how to prepare and use it.
The benefits of baking soda
Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, is a white powder that we all have, or have had, in our cupboards because its uses are endless. Moms also have it on hand in the kitchen for cooking and even for cleaning.
This compound occurs naturally in a mineral called natron. It can also be easily produced artificially. We should also mention it doesn’t contain additives.
People make all kinds of claims about the properties of baking soda. Some are real, and others not so much. Let’s take a look.
1. A natural digestive
Many people believe that you can use baking soda for problems related to indigestion because it helps relieve gas and can aid in digesting heavy foods more quickly.
However, numerous studies, including this one from the University of California, warn against taking it; especially if you have heart problems or diabetes.
Another study from the University of Washington found that taking too much baking soda could cause serious health problems such as hemorrhagic encephalopathy.
2. A natural antacid
While baking soda can be effective in small doses as an antacid, it’s best to talk to your doctor before taking it.
3. A purifier
There isn’t enough evidence to back up the claim that baking soda has any purifying or cleansing properties.
4. Antiseptic properties
Baking soda also works to whiten teeth. That being said, it can be abrasive on your enamel so talk to your dentist before using it.
5. Relieving cystitis
According to a study from Chungbuk National University College of Medicine, baking soda can help the kidneys create a protective barrier against bacteria.
However, talk to your doctor before starting any kind of treatment, because there’s not a lot of information available about how much you can take before it becomes harmful.
An excess of sodium in the body could increase the amount of sodium which is dangerous. The exact amount to consume to be safe is still unknown.
Baking soda and honey treatment
The combination of baking soda and honey is ideal for treating dermatological problems, especially on your face. Here are some of the benefits:
- This study from University Malaysia Kelantan found that honey has valuable antiseptic and healing properties, which are useful in cosmetics.
- Meanwhile, baking soda can help eliminate and prevent pimples in addition to exfoliating the skin and removing dead cells.
Ingredients
- ¼ c. of baking soda (120 g)
- 1 c. of raw bee honey (250 g)
Preparation
- Mix the baking soda with the honey in a bowl
- Then, stir until the mixture thickens and is homogeneous
- Cook the mixture, preferably in a double boiler, for 10 minutes and stir occasionally
- Take off the heat and store
How to use it
Use it to exfoliate by applying and rubbing. Once finished, wash with plenty of water.
Visit this article 8 Medical Benefits of Cinnamon and Honey
A mask for acne
Another use for a mixture of baking soda and honey is as a remedy for acne or pimples. This type of mask is cheap and easy to make but some studies suggest it can harm your skin.
One such study comes from Europe PMC. The researchers found that the risk of irritation and skin inflammation can potentially outweigh the benefits. Before starting any treatment, talk to your doctor or dermatologist.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp. of baking soda (1 oz)
- 1 tbsp. of honey (0.5 oz)
- Lemon juice
Preparation
- Make a paste with the baking soda, the honey and the lemon juice
- Then, spread the mixture all over your face, using circular motions
- Leave it on for 10 minutes
- Remove mask with warm water
- Dry face by dabbing gently with a clean towel
- Finally, apply a moisturizer to seal your pores
Contraindications of a mixture of baking soda and honey
It’s not a good idea to apply these remedies excess or very frequently, nor is this a remedy to apply on any type of skin. And if you notice any unfavorable reaction, you should stop using it. It’s even advisable to go to a dermatologist before using it.
Furthermore, when it comes to consuming baking soda and honey, it’s crucial that you only consume them in moderation. In the case of baking soda, a dose greater than a teaspoon can lead to gastric rupture.
People with colon problems or gastritis should avoid baking soda. Similarly, regulate honey consumption so as to avoid excess intake of sweeteners.
Finally, as we’ve pointed out before, both products should be used with caution. Therefore, consult your doctor before starting any of these treatments.
