The benefits and uses of alum powder also known as fitkari.
1. Alum is a crystal compound which is formed naturally in rocks which contain potassium and sulfide minerals. This has been used in Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine since ancient time for its wonderful healing properties.
2. To make this powder simply purchase a bar of potassium alum, and grind using a pestle and mortar to create a fine powder.
3. It is commonly used as an aftershave treatment due to its styptic properties. This means that it can be applied to the skin to stop bleeding from shaving cuts.
4. The powder can also be used as a natural deodorant when applied under the arms. It has the ability to kill bacteria which causes body odour.
5. If you suffer from canker sores, also known as mouth ulcers. Place 1 teaspoon of alum powder in warm water with a pinch of salt. Rinse this around the painful area to heal the sore within 1 to 2 days.
6. This is also used by many dentists to stop the bleeding during procedures and as an astringent to cause a contraction of the gum tissue.
7. You can use alum powder to treat acne and pimples, as it works to dry out the infected skin. Simply mix a little alum powder with rose water to make a paste. Apply this to the skin for 20 minutes before washing. This tightens the pores and destroys harmful bacteria on the skin, making you look younger.
8. Alum is an ingredient found in many waxes used for the removal of body hair. It helps to soothe the skin after wax treatments.
9. In the 1950s men applied alum to their hair to keep the hair standing up for flattop or crew-cut styles.
10. It is also used as a fire retardant in cloth, paper and wood products in order to make them less flammable.
11. If you suffer from cracked heels or athletes foot, simply stir 3 teaspoons of alum powder in a small amount of water until dissolved. Add this to a bowl of warm water and soak the feet until it turns cold. Do this daily to heal the skin and kill the fungus causing the problem.
12. The Ancient Egyptians used alum to purify muddy and cloudy water. The crystal introduces a positive charge to the water which causes coagulation. The particles fall to the bottom leaving the freshwater on top.
13. It has been traditionally used to treat haemorrhoids also known as piles. Half a tablespoon can be added to bathwater, to soak the painful area. This works to bring down inflammation and pain and can even shrink the piles a little.
14. Alum powder is also used in leather tanning to remove moisture from the animal hide and prevent rotting.
15. It is sometimes found as an ingredient in baking powder as it helps cakes and breads to rise whilst baking.