You may be familiar with sodium bicarbonate (often referred to as baking soda) as an ingredient in recipes such as cakes, because it interacts with other ingredients as a raising agent. However, it also has other uses as an alternative healthcare product. Here’s a look at the properties of this humble but versatile compound.

What is sodium bicarbonate?

Sodium bicarbonate is a white crystalline powder that has a range of uses thanks to its alkaline properties that can neutralise acids. This means that it can help to regulate pH levels, bringing health and hygiene benefits as well as being a useful baking ingredient. It’s a naturally occurring form of mineral salt that is obtained from nahcolite deposits. 

When seeking out sodium bicarbonate as a healthcare product, beware of synthetically manufactured compounds that are typically made in India or China, because they may have chemical additives that reduce its effectiveness or are even toxic. The purest and most effective sodium bicarbonate is mined from naturally occurring natron reserves. 

These were traditionally obtained from dried up lake beds in ancient Egypt, and in the modern day they are found in north and central Africa, and some regions of Europe and North America.  

Sodium bicarbonate to aid digestion

Sodium bicarbonate is commonly used to aid digestion, because the alkaline qualities help to counteract the stomach acid reflux that causes heartburn. A teaspoon of food-grade sodium bicarbonate dissolved in water can do the trick to relieve heartburn or dyspepsia. 

Oral health

Sodium bicarbonate helps to neutralise the acids that occur in the mouth and are responsible for causing bad breath, so it is often used as a mouthwash solution. It also contains gentle whitening properties that can remove stains and leave the teeth looking brighter.  

The antibacterial properties may also help to ease the symptoms of mild gum disease (gingivitis). It’s a popular and affordable alternative to standard tooth care products.

Domestic hygiene

Sodium bicarbonate has natural antibacterial properties, and the alkaline content helps to neutralise bad odours. It can be added to laundry to soften the water and ensure that garments, bedding and towels smell fresh and pleasant after washing, and it can help to remove stains on crockery. 

It can also be safely sprinkled onto carpets and upholstery to absorb lingering pet or cigarette odours. Furthermore, it can be mixed with water to clean kitchen counters and ovens, because it is abrasive but still gentle enough to avoid causing damage.  It can also be used to remove mildew and freshen up dishcloths and sponges. 

As a skincare product

Small amounts of sodium bicarbonate may be effective at treating skin conditions such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis. Some people also find it useful when mixed as a paste to soothe bee stings, insect bites, and fungal infections. However, take care not to use too much or it will be overly drying, and it should not be applied to open wounds. 

Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is a naturally occurring sulphur compound that is found in plants, animals, and the human body. It can be manufactured for use as an alternative health supplement, and is highly popular due to anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, and is particularly effective when used in combination with vitamin C.

Here’s a look at the main benefits of taking MSM vitamin C powder.

Improved recovery time after exercise

When we undertake intense exercise, it inflicts damage to the muscles through inflammation and oxidative stress. MSM can reduce this effect, helping to lessen muscle soreness and stiffness after an exercise session and improve recovery times. This can help athletes gradually increase their training and boost performance. 

Bone and cartilage protection

Vitamin C plays an important role in the body’s healing process, and it also works in synergy with MSM to maintain the health of our bones and cartilage. Therefore it can be taken as a preventative measure for joint pain people who exercise regularly. 

Relief from joint pain

There is scientific evidence to suggest that MSM is effective in relieving joint pain and managing inflammatory conditions such as arthritis. It plays a key role in the production of collagen and glucosamine, which are essential to the health of our bones and joints. 

Clinical trials showed that patients with osteoarthritis-related knee pain reported reduced joint swelling, less pain, and improved functionality after taking MSM supplements when compared to a control group who took a placebo.

Improved complexion

MSM supports the production of collagen, which is a protein that helps our skin to remain supple and elastic. We naturally produce less collagen as we age, which can lead to the development of wrinkles and sagging skin. Boosting collagen levels can slow down the effects of ageing and help to retain a more youthful complexion. 

Vitamin C contains antioxidant properties that help to protect the skin from ageing, and it also works in conjunction with MSM to boost collagen production. 

Stronger immune system

There is some evidence to suggest that MSM can help to support the immune system by reducing levels of oxidative stress and inflammation in the body. The immune system relies on a combination of cells, tissues and organs to ward off infections and viruses, and this can be compromised by nutrient deficiency, stress, tiredness, or general poor health.

MSM can also boost the production of glutathione in the body, which is one of the most powerful natural antioxidants. Furthermore, sulphur, which is a key component of MSM, plays an important role in the production of immunoglobulins, which work to support the immune system. 

Vitamin C also enhances the body’s ability to utilise sulphur, and independently works to support the immune system. 

If you have a pet dog or cat, you will naturally want them to be in the best of health and enjoy their food. It can be disconcerting if they suddenly seem to be disinterested in eating, or are eating less than usual. It may not be the sign of anything serious and it may just be a phase they are going through.

However, if your pet is eating very little and the problem persists for a few days, then it’s worth investigating it further. Here are some of the most common reasons why dogs and cats might lose their appetite. Medical conditions There are many medical reasons why your pet might not be eating, so it’s necessary to have them checked out by a vet if the problem persists. Cats and dogs can develop gastrointestinal diseases or obstructions of the gastrointestinal tract, for example. There may be an issue with their mouth or teeth. If your pet has other symptoms such as a bloated stomach, appears to be in pain or discomfort, or is vomiting or having diarrhoea, then they should have urgent medical attention. Behavioural problems Dogs in particular can be prone to anxiety, stress, and fear, which might put them off their food. For example, dogs who are left at home alone for long periods can develop separation anxiety. Cats and dogs can also be upset by excessive noise such as fireworks, thunderstorms, or home improvements. Environmental changes Pets can be very sensitive to changes in their environment, especially if you have the disruption of house guests, builders, or other tradespeople. If you have recently introduced a new pet or brought a new baby home, then your pet may be more anxious than usual, leading to a loss of appetite. Dogs like to have a stable routine, and they may be affected by any change, such as the loss of another household member, or being walked or fed at different times of the day. An issue with the food Sometimes, you may simply be over facing your pet with too much food, or offering them a product that they don’t enjoy. Check that you are storing the food correctly so it is fresh, and that it has not passed its sell-by date. Home treatments It’s always important to consult a vet if your pet has not been eating well, because there may be an undiagnosed medical problem that needs to be addressed. However, it may be beneficial to support your pet’s diet with a supplement. One natural product that has been gaining recognition for its effectiveness is montmorillonite clay powder. This product works as a natural anti-caking and binding agent, and it can help to remove harmful chemicals and toxins from the body. Animals can often be observed eating soil or clay when they are feeling unwell, because of its natural cleansing and soothing properties. The 100 per cent natural clay can be mixed to a paste with natural spring water and given to your pet via a syringe, or added to wet food.

Gourmet table salts are favoured by professional chefs and enthusiastic home cooks for their superior texture and flavour. Unlike regular table salts which contain potentially harmful anti-caking ingredients, gourmet salts are minimally processed and free from artificial additives. 

Gourmet salts have a consistent long-lasting flavour without the bitter aftertaste of regular table salts. It is also aesthetically pleasing, with generous glistening crystals rather than the ordinary white powder of regular table salt. These details can really elevate your cooking above the everyday and add that memorable and delicious twist. 

Here’s a look at some of the many benefits of these popular gourmet salts.

Sicilian Sea Salt

Sicilian sea salt is harvested from the Mediterranean shores of Sicily, and it is enriched with essential vitamins and minerals including sodium, potassium, zinc, iron, magnesium, and potassium. This salt has a delicate crunch and a distinctive briny taste that make it ideal for preparing or seasoning seafood dishes.

Himalayan Salt

Himalayan salt is a form of rock salt that is mined from the Salt Range Mountains in the Punjab region of Pakistan. It derives its distinctive rose coloured hue from the high mineral content and trace elements, which contain many of the essential minerals the body requires for healthy functioning. 

Himalayan salt is hand-extracted from ancient mines, and has been used for centuries in its native region for cooking, preserving food, and for cosmetic and medicinal purposes. Food-grade Himalayan salt is ideal for seasoning all kinds of food, adding a long-lasting body and flavour without being too overpowering.

It is especially popular with professional cooks because it is so versatile. Larger grains can be added to meat dishes for slowly absorbed flavour, while more finely ground Himalayan salt is easily dissolved into more liquid dishes such as stews and soups or doughs. The unique pink crystals also make attractive table decorations when displayed in salt grinders. 

Not only is Himalayan salt an excellent cooking ingredient, but it can also be used for therapeutic purposes. The coarse grains are ideal for making homemade exfoliating scrubs for the face and body. Some people find that they can help to ease dry skin conditions and eczema when added to a bath or foot soak.

Black Salt "Kala Namak" 

This unique salt is harvested in India, where it has formed in centuries old volcanic matter. It has a lower sodium content than many other types of salt, so it is particularly beneficial for those who wish to lower their intake. It is a highly prized cooking ingredient for its bold and unique flavour. 

Red Sea Salt

The Red Sea is famous for its high saline concentration, which makes it easy for bathers to float in. It is naturally rich in salt content due to low rainfall and high rates of evaporation, and this salt has been harvested for centuries for both cooking and medicinal purposes. 

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At this time of the year it can be easy to feel a little under the weather, as the days are short and cold and the fun of the festive season is beginning to fade. Making time for some self-care can be the perfect antidote to tired and dull winter skin and low energy levels. Here are some ideas to rejuvenate yourself with the healing properties of clay.

What is so special about clay?

Why choose cosmetic clays when there are so many self-care products out there on the market? Well, clay is made up from tiny particles of decomposed rock, which is full of earth minerals and contains ionic bonds that carry a negative electrical charge. This helps natural clay products to draw out toxins and impurities from the skin.

Natural clays have been used for thousands of years to cleanse and purify the skin, leaving it looking and feeling wonderfully soft and glowing with a gentle exfoliating action. They can also have medicinal properties, helping to heal wounds and soothe inflammation.

What type of clay should I use?

For a mild clay that won’t cause any irritation to sensitive skin, choose kaolin white clay. This formula will help to draw out impurities while not drying out the skin or absorbing its natural oils. The clay has a lovely cooling action that is ideal for restoring the natural balance to red and irritated skin.

Montmorillonite red clay is rich in iron oxide, which is what gives it the characteristic red hue. It is composed of ancient volcanic ash and minerals and has a potent ionic charge. This makes it particularly effective for deep cleansing pores and leaving the skin feeling wonderfully hydrated and refreshed.

The clay can also stimulate the turnover of skin cells by boosting enzyme production and the flow of oxygen to the epidermis, leaving tired skin looking smoother and more youthful. It’s an ideal product for reducing the appearance of oily inflamed looking skin, because it absorbs excess sebum and has antimicrobial properties that can soothe acne.

How to make a clay mask

Simply follow the manufacturers’ instructions, which will typically involve adding mineral water to the clay powder to make a smooth paste, which can be applied to the face or body and left in place for 15 to 20 minutes while it works its magic. Then simply rinse away with warm water. You may wish to apply a carrier oil afterwards for maximum results.

Be sure to use a wooden spoon rather than a metallic one when you are mixing the paste, because metal can destroy the ionic charge and the treatment may be less effective. For additional benefits, you may want to choose a clay with added vitamins and nutrients such as rosehip powder, green tea extract, and aloe vera powder.