Baking soda, a pure form of Sodium Bicarbonate, literally has hundreds of household uses. The beneficial qualities of baking soda are due to its ability to act as a buffer, neutralizing both acidic and alkaline substances, thus regulating the pH. It should not be confused with baking powder which has additional acidifying and drying agents.
The various uses of baking soda as an inexpensive, versatile personal care substance are as follows:

• 3 parts of baking soda mixed with 1 part of water act as a perfect cleanser for hands when they are heavily soiled.

• 1 teaspoon of baking soda added to half glass of water acts as a mouthwash.

• Soaking brushes and combs in water along with 1 teaspoon of baking soda cleans off the residue.

• Baking soda added to the bathing water removes extra skin oils and also removes body odor and also helps relieve from eczema.

• 3 parts of baking soda mixed with 1 part of water acts as an exfoliant to remove dead skin cells and get a smooth silky feeling.

• Dissolving half teaspoon of baking soda in half a glass of water acts as an antacid and helps relieve heartburn, acid ingestion and an upset stomach.

(Note: avoid the use as an antacid if the person is on a sodium restricted diet. When using as an antacid be sure the soda is properly dissolved before consuming.)

• Baking soda can be used as a deodorant.

• Baking soda is very effective in removing tan from face and neck and also from the whole body.

• Baking soda can also be used in emergency medical situation like heart attacks, serious kidney and lung problems, to correct the normal acid-base balance in the blood or as an aid in treating overdoses with certain types of medications.