Epsom Salts: 35 Health & Beauty, Household & Garden Uses

January 28, 2015

What is Epsom salt? Known chemically as magnesium sulfate it is a naturally occurring mineral discovered in water in Epsom, England. It is a must-have for use in the home, garden and also for personal care. Below are 35 household, health & beauty and gardening uses for Epsom Salts. (Note: Amazon has just about the largest and best value range or Epsom Salts on the planet!)

Epsom Salt Household Uses

Cleaning Bathroom Tiles

Bathroom tiles pick up grunge over time and Epsom salt is a cheap and effective way to clean them. Mix the salts with an equal amount of liquid dish detergent. Then rub it on the grimy areas and scrub. The Epsom salt, along with the detergent, works by dissolving the grime. Also see: Remove Mold & Mildew NATURALLY With Tea Tree Oil.

Ridding Raccoons from the Trash Can

For those plagued by raccoons foraging in the trash can, creating a real mess and making a din in the middle of the night Epsom salt could provide the solution. The reason is very simple; raccoons hate the taste of the salts. So spread a few tablespoons around the trash can and remember to repeat the operation after rain.

Regenerate the Car Battery

A car stuck on the driveway because of battery problems can be a nightmare. One way to avoid this is by regenerating the battery using Epsom salt. If it sounds as if it is struggling to turn over dissolve an ounce of the salt in warm water and add to each of the battery’s cells.

Make the Windows Look Frosty at Xmas

Frosty window makes the windows look seasonal at Christmas, but unless there is real snow outside it can be difficult to create the effect – unless there is Epsom Salt in the home. Just mix the salt in warm beer until it stops dissolving. Then use a sponge to apply the mixture to the windows. Once they dry they will have that frosty Yuletide look!

Removing Burnt Food from Pots and Pans

Over cooked and burnt food can be difficult to remove from pots and pans. A few tablespoons of Epsom salt along with soap and halt water can remove the drudgery from scrubbing away stuck burnt food and leave the pots and pans clean.

Nourish Houseplants

Epsom salts in water can be used to nourish houseplants around the home and keep them fresh and healthy. Use 1 or 2 tablespoons of the salts per gallon of water to make the solution.

Clean Hard Water Stains From Glass Shower Doors

Epson Salt provides an eco-friendly way to clean hard water stains off glass shower doors. Mix a cup of the salts, a ½ cup of baking soda and a ¼ cup of liquid dish soap. Make sure the shower doors are dry before cleaning. Scoop up the mixture with a damp cloth and begin the cleaning.

Make a Homemade Fabric Softener

To save money on fabric softener take the Epsom Salt from the cupboard and make a homemade version. This can be done by taking 2 cups of the salt, a half cup of baking soda and 30 drops of essentials oils (such as citrus oils). The ingredients should then be mixed together and added directly to the wash load (1/4 cup per large load).

Epsom Salt Garden Uses

Ridding the Garden of Slugs

There are times of the year when the garden or yard seems to be infested by horrible slimy slugs. A tin of Epsom salt in the home can deal with this particular problem. Just sprinkle the salt in the areas where slugs appear and soon they will be gone. It appears slugs just do not like magnesium sulfate!

Making Grass Even Greener

If the grass is browning under the summer sun it can be made to be the color it should be – green – using Epsom salt. It is the magnesium and iron in the salts which does the trick. Mix 3 tablespoons of the Epsom salts with a gallon of water. Next sprinkle it over the lawn and follow this up by sprinkling with plain water. This ensures the salts soak into the grass, restoring it to its natural color.

Fertilize Tomatoes

Epsom salt makes a great fertilizer for tomatoes and other plants. Add one tablespoon of the salts for each foot of the plant every week. Epsom salt can also be used to fertilize roses, flowers, trees and houseplants.

Growing Sweeter Fruit

For people growing their own fruit in the garden Epsom salt can make them even sweeter. By applying the salts (2 tablespoons per gallon of water) chlorophyll levels are raised inside the cells of the plants which lead to sweeter fruits.

Improve Nutrient Absorption in the Garden

For those who prefer organic gardening Epsom salt improves nutrient absorption naturally and avoids the need to use processed chemical fertilizers.

Seed Germination Improvement

To improve seed germination in the garden add Epsom salt to the soil before planting. The magnesium in the salt strengthens cell walls leading to stronger seedlings. 1 or 2 tablespoons of Epsom salt should be poured into the bottom of each hole before the seeds are dropped in.

Preventing leaf curling

Epson salt can be used to prevent leaf curling which is caused by a deficiency of magnesium in the plant. To solve the problem add the salt to the soil around the foot of the plant. For a quicker option mix 2 tablespoons of Epsom salt in a gallon of water and sprinkle directly on the leaves.

Homemade Weed Killer for the Garden

Epsom salts can be used to control weeds in the garden and also to produce a homemade weed killer. Mix 1 gallon of white vinegar with 2 cups of Epsom salt and a ¼ cup of regular dish soap then pour the mixture into a gallon sprayer or watering can. The weeds can be killed within only a few hours. This homemade weed killer should be used to control weeds every two weeks and it poses no danger to pets or children.

Health & Beauty Epsom Salt Uses

Relaxing the Body

An Epsom salt bath at home is ideal for relieving tension. Dissolve the salts in a bath. The salt molecules promote serotine production in the body which helps reduce the effects of adrenaline. The magnesium helps promote energy in the cells of the body without causing restlessness or anxiety.

Helping circulation

Important Epsom salt uses include taking it to help improve circulation which in turn can prevent serious cardiovascular problems. The salts help by reducing inflammation and ensuring the elasticity of the arteries remains protected. Healthy arteries lessen the risk of blood clots, as well as the buildup of plaque and damage to arterial walls.

Relief of Constipation

When constipation strikes reach for the Epsom salts; they are one of the best natural home remedies for constipation and the condition can be eased by drinking a cup of warm with two tablespoons of the salts dissolved in it. The salts provide relief because they are a saline laxative.

Whitening Teeth

Among Epsom salt’s many uses is teeth whitening. Mix 1 part of the salt with 1 part water and then use the mixture when brushing the teeth. Use the salts to gargle with after brushing. Not only does this method produce gleaming teeth it also helps prevent periodontal diseases. Also see: 8 Surprising Uses for Hydrogen Peroxide for more on natural teeth whitening.

Removing Splinters with Epsom Salt

Most splinters are in and out in a few seconds with little first aid required, but sometimes splinters can be real nasty – they can be big, get stuck in deep and get infected. I had to go to the ER once for a glass shard splinter. I felt it go in but I never saw it until they pulled it out – it was almost 3cm long!

I think when splinters don’t come out quickly and easily, most people resort to needles and cutting with a sharp knife etc. These methods don’t always work and they can actually make things a lot worse, either way, there is pain and blood involved. There doesn’t have to be pain, blood, knives or needles though – all you need is some magnesium sulfate, or Epsom salts as it is better known.

Two ways to use Epsom salts to remove a splinter.

Firstly you can try mixing some Epsom salts in a cup of warm water and then soak the finger etc in it for a few minutes 2-3 times a day.
If it’s a bigger/deeper splinter, you can sprinkle a pinch of Epsom salts onto a band-aid/wound dressing and apply put it over the splinter. Remove and reapply twice a day.

Whichever method you try, within a day or so the splinter should work its way towards the surface, where you’ll be able to pull it out without any pain. If the splinter hasn’t moved and/or it has become infected, now’s the time to consider seeing a medical professional.

Dispelling foot odor

The odor from feet can be very unpleasant and embarrassing. Dissolve Epsom salts in a foot bath and soak the feet for around 15 to 20 minutes to get rid of the smell. Epsom salt foot baths are also great for relieving the feeling of heavy legs and foot pain.

Treating Sunburn

Epsom salt is an effective way to treat sunburn. Its strong anti-inflammatory properties can help ease the itchiness and pain of sunburnt skin.

Removing Blackheads

To remove blackheads a teaspoon of Epsom salt and 3 drops of iodine in a half cup of boiling water. When the water has cooled apply the mixture to the blackhead using a cotton ball. Repeat 3 or 4 times before gently removing the blackhead. Then dab with an alcohol-based astringent. Be sure to check out our complete how to get rid of blackheads post.

Fade Bruises

Epsom salt in the home can be used to fade bruises by putting 2 tablespoons of the salt in a cup of warm water. Soak a washcloth in the solution and apply as a compress to the bruised area.

Improve Digestion

If digestion needs to be stimulated take the Epsom salts from the cupboard and dissolve 1 or 2 tablespoons in a cup of warm. Drink the Epsom salts solution before eating.

Detoxification

To detoxify the body stir 1 to 2 cups of Epsom salts in a bathtub of warm water then soak for 10 to 15 minutes. The magnesium sulfate in the salts makes an Epsom salt bath a great way to detoxify.

Maintain Muscle and Nerve Function

Magnesium sulfate has the ability to relieve tension, pain and cramping. It also governs the body’s use of calcium which aids the transmission of chemical signals throughout the nervous system and regulates fluid retention in the body’s cells.

Regulating Blood Sugar

Epsom salts in the home can be used to regulate blood sugar levels. This is because magnesium sulfate helps the body to produce and use insulin. If taken regularly mixed in water, Epsom salts may be able to lower the risk of diabetes and also boost the body’s energy levels.

Hair Care

Epsom salt can be used to provide natural and cheap hair care. The salts should be mixed with equal parts of conditioner. The mixture can then be applied to the hair and left for around 20 minutes. Then rinse the hair well and let air dry. The Epsom salt and conditioner mixture can be used on both greasy and dry hair.

Use as skin foliate

Take the carton of Epsom salt off the shelf and take a handful of the salts and massage over wet skin. To take full advantage of this natural chemical free skin foliate start at the feet and move up the body towards the face. Finish off by taking a soak in the bathtub.

Athletes Foot and Toenail Fungus Treatments

Both athletes foot and toenail fungus can be treated using Epsom salt. Both treatments involve pouring a handful of the salts in a bowl of hot water and soaking the affected foot or toes. For toenail fungus treatment the toes should be soaked in the mixture three times a day. Also see: How To Use Mouthwash To Cure Toenail Fungus & Athlete’s Foot

Sleep More Soundly

One way to ensure a good night’s sleep after a long hard day is to take a relaxing Epson Salt bath around an hour before going to bed. The salts help improve sleep because they increase the level of magnesium in the body. To enjoy a relaxing soak before bedtime fill the tub with hot water and add a cup of Epsom salts and a cup of baking soda. Then go to bed prepared for a night of good sleep and hopefully sweet dreams.

Make a Homemade Skin Mask

Epson salt can be used to make a natural skin mask free of chemicals. Just a teaspoon of Epsom salt is required along with a puree made up of white egg, a half teaspoon of pantothenic acid powder, a teaspoon of Aloe Vera and a chopped ripe tomato and 2 drops of thyme oil. Apply to the face for around 15 minutes then rinse off. This homemade skin mask is also a good treatment for people suffering problems with acne.

Relief for Gout

Gout is a very painful condition and Epsom salt can be used to provide relief. Add 2 or 3 teaspoons of the salts to a basin of hot water and soak the affected area for 30 minutes.

48 Hydrogen Peroxide Uses & Home Remedies To Try

October 3, 2014

Hydrogen peroxide is a staple in almost every home first aid kit. While this product kills germs and protects your body from infections, its use spans far deeper than cleaning scraped knees. This common household product can be used for anything from whitening your teeth to cleaning stains out of clothes. Continue to explore several surprising uses from this simple water and oxygen compound.

Realize it or not, Hydrogen Peroxide – H2O2 – is one of the most versatile products to have in the home. It has a multitude of uses for maintaining personal health and beauty and is handy to have available for cleaning and even cooking.

Hydrogen peroxide is available in different strengths, generally 3% to 35% for domestic use. Unless stated the hydrogen peroxide, even when diluted, listed below is 3%. Always check the correct strength is being used.

Hydrogen peroxide chemical formula

48 uses and benefits of hydrogen peroxide:

Household Uses:

Keeping the Refrigerator Clean

To clean the refrigerator, spray the inside with hydrogen peroxide. Let it soak then after a few minutes wipe with a clean cloth to get rid of food debris and stains.

Washing Fruit and Vegetables

Remove dirt, wax and other contaminants from fruit and vegetables by spraying them with hydrogen peroxide. Let the spray soak in for a couple of minutes then rinse in cold water.

Disinfecting Cutting Boards

Raw meat and other foods are cut on cutting boards and this can lead to germs and bacteria left behind. So the boards need to be regularly cleaned. Spraying with hydrogen peroxide will thoroughly cleanse them.

Disinfecting Dirty Dishrags & Sponges

Dirty dishrags and sponges need to be soaked to disinfect them. The most efficient way to do this is to soak them in hydrogen peroxide for up to 30 minutes to ensure they are thoroughly disinfected.

Cleaning Bathroom & Kitchen Countertops

To clean and disinfect countertops in either the bathroom or kitchen spray with hydrogen peroxide. Simply pour 1 to 2 cups of 3% hydrogen peroxide into the toilet bowl and allow it to soak for 30 minutes. Using a toilet brush, scrub the bowl interior and flush away the grime.

Cleaning Glass Surfaces

Dirty mirrors and glass surfaces can be difficult to clean. To do the job efficiently, spray with hydrogen peroxide. This will loosen the dirt and grime which can then be wiped away with a clean lint-free cloth.

Banish Mold From Your Home – The H202 Remedy

Did you know standard 3% hydrogen peroxide is so effective at eliminating mold spores, that even government health agencies recommend this remedy? Leaving mold untreated, can result in serious respiratory illnesses and even constant allergy attacks. Eliminate mold from your home or office by pouring undiluted 3% hydrogen peroxide into a spray bottle. Spray until the mold area is completely saturated. Allow the solution to sit for 10 minutes before scrubbing the area with a sponge. Wear protective breathing masks to prevent inhaling mold spores. If in doubt, repeat the cleaning process up to three times.

Removing Soap Scum From the Tub

Soap scum and dirt as well as other stains build up in the bathtub over time and they can be difficult to scrub away. To make cleaning easier first spray the tub with hydrogen peroxide. Leave for around 30 minutes as during this time the grime will be loosened leaving it much easier to be wiped away.

Use as a Toilet Cleaner

Using hydrogen peroxide is a good way to clean the toilet bowl. Just pour half a cup into the toilet and leave for around 30 minutes. This will help clean the bowl and remove any stains.

Tip: for blocked drains – see our homemade drain cleaner post.

Whitening Grout

For whiter grout mix hydrogen peroxide with some white flour and turn into a thick paste. Next apply the paste to the grout and cover overnight with plastic wrap. The next day rinse with water and the grout will be whiter.

Cleaning Tile Surfaces

Hydrogen peroxide provides an efficient way to clean tiled surfaces. Over time tiles become dirty and pick up stains. The dirt and stains can be removed and the surfaces cleaned by spraying the hydrogen peroxide directly on the tiles.

Improving Seed Germination

Fungal spores can impede seed germination. The spores can be removed and germination improved by soaking the seeds in hydrogen peroxide.

Cleansing Humidifiers

Hydrogen peroxide can be used to cleanse humidifiers by adding a pint of the liquid to a gallon of water. By running the solution through the humidifiers they are disinfected and any mold or mildew growing inside them removed.

Disinfecting Lunchboxes

Lunch boxes need not only to be clean but also hygienic. This means they should be disinfected regularly. This can be done by spraying the lunchboxes, along with any coolers and cooler bags with hydrogen peroxide. After spraying let them sit for a few minutes and then wipe to leave clean and disinfected.

Keeping Re-usable Shopping Bags Fresh

A good way to freshen up re-usable cloth shopping bags is to spray them with hydrogen peroxide. This will remove any lingering food odors and leave them clean and disinfected.

Cleaning Rugs and Carpets

Hydrogen peroxide in the home can be used to clean dirty rugs and carpets. Light carpets, in particular, can pick up dirt and mud from footwear worn outside very quickly. Dropped food and spilled drinks cam also mark the carpet. To clean them spray on hydrogen peroxide. It is important to test this cleaning method on a hidden area first as the substance can bleach some fabrics.

Remove Unpleasant Odors From Fabrics

Over time fabrics pick up odors that are unpleasant and unwanted. To remove the odors and freshen up the fabric soak in a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and white vinegar.

Removing Organic Stains From Fabrics

To remove organic stains, such as coffee, wine, blood and sweat from a fabric mix two parts hydrogen peroxide with one part dish detergent. The mixture should then be applied to the stains. Hydrogen peroxide can bleach some darker colored fabrics, so be cautious when using this method.

Whitening Laundry

Over time some laundered items can be become yellow or dingy. They need revitalizing in the wash. Do this by adding a cup of hydrogen peroxide to the wash water, leaving the laundry to soak for around 15 to 30 minutes.

Contact Lens Cleaner

Hydrogen peroxide in the home is very useful for people who wear contact lenses. The lenses can be soaked in the solution overnight to remove protein buildup and leave them clean for wearing again next morning.

Use as an All-Purpose Cleaner

All–purpose cleaners are expensive and can eat into the household budget. To save those hard earned dollars use hydrogen peroxide which is a cheaper, and viable, alternative to those commercial cleaners. Hydrogen peroxide can be used undiluted or mixed with water for cleaning.

Save on Dishwasher Detergent

Dishwasher Detergent can be expensive so a good way to save money is by mixing it with hydrogen peroxide. Also save on ordinary detergent by using hydrogen peroxide when hand washing the dishes.

Use as an Emetic for Household Pets

Household cats and dogs can sometimes suffer after eating something which makes them very ill. In these cases a dose of hydrogen peroxide can induce vomiting purging the pet of possible dangerous substances.

Control Fungus Growth in an Aquarium

People who keep an aquarium in the home can use hydrogen peroxide to control the growth of fungus. It must be used sparingly to prevent any harm to the fish.

Use Directly on Clothing to Remove Stubborn Stains

Stains such as blood can very stubborn and difficult to remove from clothing. One option to deal with this is to use hydrogen peroxide and pour it directly on the stain. Leave for a minute, rub, and then rinse with cold water. If need be repeat the process.

Disinfecting Toothbrushes

To ensure oral hygiene is maintained it is important that toothbrushes are regularly disinfected. One way to do this by soaking them in hydrogen peroxide as it will help kill the bacteria and germs which thrive in the typical bathroom and which can infect toothbrushes.

Growing Mushrooms in a Refrigerator

One of the lesser known benefits of having hydrogen peroxide in the home is that it can be used for growing oyster mushrooms in a refrigerator. The process involves freezer bags and a gallon of diluted hydrogen peroxide. This is not a quick way to grow oyster mushrooms; it takes around 6 months but the end result is well worth the wait.

Marinade Meat, Fish or Poultry

Hydrogen peroxide can be used for marinating. To marinade fish, meat or poultry place in a casserole and cover with equal parts hydrogen peroxide and water. Loosely cover the casserole and refrigerate for 30 minutes. Rinse before cooking.

Health Uses:

Treating Foot Fungus

To treat foot fungus mix hydrogen peroxide and water in a darkened bottle (hydrogen peroxide should not be exposed to sunlight). Apply to the area affected by the foot fungus. Alternatively you can try the mouthwash home remedy instead.

Dealing with skin mite infections

Using hydrogen peroxide can be a home cure for people suffering skin mites. Dealing with the problem is quite simple. If the hydrogen peroxide is sprayed on the affected area of skin and the process repeated a few minutes later then the mites will be killed.

Relieving Ear Infections

Putting 6 to 8 drops of hydrogen peroxide in the ear using a small dropper bottle will ease the symptoms and help clear up the infection, or you can try this instead.

Preventing Swimmer’s Ear

To avoid ear infection – swimmer’s ear – mix hydrogen peroxide and vinegar in a small dropper bottle. Following the swim put a few drops in each ear to prevent infection developing.

Removing Earwax

To remove earwax first put 2 drops of hydrogen peroxide in the affected ear. Wait for a couple of minutes then put a couple of drops olive oil in the ear. After another minute drain all the fluid from the ear and that will clear the wax. Here is another alternative home remedy for earwax.

Softening Corns & Calluses on the Feet

To soften corns and calluses on the feet make a foot soak using equal parts hydrogen peroxide and warm water. Soak the feet in the mixture and the hydrogen peroxide will soften any corns and calluses quite naturally.

Healing Boils

A use of hydrogen peroxide is to help heal boils. Fill a bathtub full of warm water and add 1 cup of 35% hydrogen peroxide. A soak in the bathtub will help treat any boils on the body.

Clear Acne

Acne is an unpleasant condition which can cause personal embarrassment. A hydrogen peroxide face rinse will kill the germs that cause the acne and lead to a clearer complexion. See here for out post: how to get rid of blackheads.

Use as an Antiseptic Mouth Rinse

To take advantage of hydrogen peroxide teeth whitening use it as antiseptic mouth wash. As well as whitening teeth the hydrogen peroxide will also kill germs in the mouth which lead to bad breath.

Disinfecting Small Wounds

To disinfect small wounds and avoid infection use hydrogen peroxide as it is a natural anti-sceptic.

Easing Toothache

If someone is suffering toothache the pain can be eased by rinsing or gargling with a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and coconut oil. This benefit is down largely to hydrogen peroxide’s antibacterial properties.

Clear Infected Sinuses

Infected sinuses are very painful. One way to clear the sinuses and provide relief from the pain is to make a homemade nasal spray using hydrogen peroxide. The amount of hydrogen peroxide to be used will depend on the severity of the infection, but generally 3% HP mixed in a cup of non-chlorinated water should do the trick.

Rejuvenate With a Detox Bath

A soak in a bath laced with hydrogen peroxide offers the benefits of detoxifying and rejuvenating the body. To prepare the detox bath pour cup of 35% hydrogen peroxide into a tub of warm water. Then it’s a case of soaking in the bathtub, adding hot water to maintain a comfortable temperature, for half an hour.

Beauty Uses:

Add Highlights to the Hair

Spray hydrogen peroxide over damp hair to give it sun-bleached highlights. After spraying allow it to soak in to the hair for around 10 to 15 minutes before rinsing.

Hair Bleaching

Hydrogen peroxide is much milder than household bleaches so it is great option for “bleaching” hair and making it lighter.

Whiten Finger and Toe Nails

To whiten finger and toe nails put the finger tips and toes in hydrogen peroxide. This is a proven and natural method of nail whitening.

Teeth Whitening Agent – Swish Away the Stains

The primary ingredient in most whitening toothpastes and products is hydrogen peroxide. Obtain the whitening power of this simplistic compound, without paying the high price tag many of these products demand, by using hydrogen peroxide as an occasional mouthwash. This compound whitens teeth by naturally bleaching its surface through oxygenation. Not only will your teeth shine like the sun, but its anti-bacterial qualities help prevent the formation and/or progression of gum disease and bad-breath bacteria.

How to Use

Brush your teeth with your standard toothpaste.
Mix 1 teaspoon of 3% hydrogen peroxide with 2 teaspoons of water.
Pour in your mouth and swish for 30 to 60 seconds DO NOT SWALLOW
Rinse with water and repeat two to three times per week.

Check out our related post on oil pulling.

Bonus Uses!

It’s Time to Clear the Air – Remove Airborne Germs from Your Home

Place 1 pint of 3% hydrogen peroxide for every gallon of water within your humidifier. Allow the humidifier to continuously run. The anti-bacterial and disinfecting properties of hydrogen peroxide gently infiltrate the room to prevent airborne germs from infiltrating your home

Note: This is an excellent way to prevent colds and other sicknesses from lingering in your home or office.

Wash Away the Pesticides – Vegetable Cleaner

Fresh vegetables are often produced using spray pesticides and other potentially harmful chemicals. Prevent these, and any germs, from infecting your family by adding ? cup of 3% hydrogen peroxide into a large mixing bowl. Combine with 3 cups of water and soak fruits and vegetables for 20 to 30 minutes. Rinse and refrigerate.

Fight Away Colds and Viruses With Hydrogen Peroxide Ear Drops

By placing 2 to 3 drops of pure 3% hydrogen peroxide into each ear, holistic proponents claim cold and flu durations are significantly lowered. After placing the drops in one ear, allow the peroxide to bubble for 5 to 10 minutes before tilting your head and allowing the peroxide (and ear wax) to drain out. Repeat on the other ear.

Natural Toothache Remedy For Instant Pain Relief With Clove Oil

September 19, 2014

Toothache, like earache is no joke; minor ailment but huge amount of pain. Next time you or one of your family is suffering with toothache, give this simple natural remedy a try…

The remedy is clove, you can use whole clove, ground clove or ideally clove oil. I know, I can hear you saying nothing new here, it’s that same old clove toothache remedy, and you’d be right, HOWEVER, how many of you have actually tried it? Many of us are aware of popular old timer home remedies and we instantly dismiss them as hogwash. If I am honest I was the same way about clove toothache remedy, that was, until I tried it… There is nothing new here other than me urging you to give this natural remedy a try the next time your or a family member has toothache. I think you will be pleasantly surprised by the results.

RELATED POST: 8 Oral Thrush Home Remedies

Natural Toothache Remedy For Instant Pain Relief

You will need: some salt, olive oil, cotton balls, cloves, ground cloves or clove oil. Clove oil is best, if cloves or ground cloves is what you have, use that.

Before either method, firstly swill your mouth thoroughly with some warm salty water. It’s important so don’t miss out this step!

Clove oil method – mix 3-4 drops of clove oil with around half a teaspoon of olive oil and then soak a cotton ball in the mixture. Now place and hold it in your mouth against the sore tooth or gum. Once the pain has eased, spit out the cotton ball and discard. Do not use this method in bed at night as it’s obviously a choking hazard.

Whole cloves/ground cloves method – if you have whole cloves you need to ground them up, as it is ground cloves we need. Take a large pinch of the ground cloves and pack it against the sore tooth or gum. Again leave in place until pain has eased and then spit out.

This clove toothache remedy will only ease the pain of the toothache. It does nothing to treat the cause of the toothache itself.

Additionally, I have also added a home remedies for toothache infographic below. The infographic includes some additional toothache home remedies you can try.

21 Home Remedies For Toothache

100% Natural Homemade Antibacterial Toothpaste Recipe

I am quite surprised by just how many requests I have received to post about homemade toothpaste. It’s seems an awful lot of you are not fans of fluoride! Having read up on this a bit I can see why, but what also concerns me is the use of Sodium Lareth Sulfate in most toothpastes…

SLS is a chemical detergent and foaming agent. It is often found in liquid soap, shower gels and shampoo and it is a common skin irritant. It is thought that some people who experience regular mouth mouth ulcers and swollen gums, could be sensitive to SLS.

Anyway, whatever your reason for wanting to make your own natural toothpaste, here is an excellent recipe from ‘Thank Your Body’. It contains: coconut oil, bentonite clay, sea salt, peppermint essential oil. You can purchase bentonite clay from Amazon, this $9.99 bag will make enough toothpaste to last a year or more…

A Homemade Remineralizing Toothpaste Recipe

If you want a easy to make, fluoride free toothpaste recipe that ‘apparently’ helps to remineralize your teeth and strengthen the tooth enamel, this toothpaste recipe from ‘Keeper Of The Home’ contains the wonder ingredient – coconut oil (see our previous post: 101 Coconut Oil Uses) plus sea salt and peppermint oil.

(Image from: Wikipedia. Infographic from: Survival Life)

How To Get Rid Of Blackheads Fast: 15 Home Remedies

March 5, 2014

Before we get on to how how to get rid of blackheads without inflammation, redness and scarring etc, it’s important to find out exactly what blackheads are and why they occur…

What are blackheads and why do they occur?

Unfortunately, blackheads are incredibly common and also extremely annoying when they strike! Just like whiteheads, they are comedones, meaning that they are a caused by a build up of sebum and skin cells gathered in your pores and hair follicles.

Each hair follicle contains a hair and a sebaceous glad, which produces an oil called sebum (which is really useful for keeping your skin nice and soft!). When dead skin cells and oils build up in the opening of the follicle, they produce a bump called a comedone.

The difference between whiteheads and blackheads is that in blackheads, the pore or hair follicle is open, meaning that the oils are oxidized by the air and turn a dark brown. In a whitehead, the skin over the bump stays closed, meaning that oxidization can’t take place.

Blackheads can occur anywhere there is a hair follicle. So, whilst they are most common on your face, nose, and forehead, they can also appear on the shoulders, back, neck, and chest.

It’s a common misconception that blackheads are caused by dirt, but this simply isn’t the case. Pores naturally become clogged with dead skin and sebum, no matter how clean you are. And the larger your pores, the more of a problem this will be.

The good news is that there are ways you can get rid of blackheads and prevent blackheads from occurring in the first place.

How to get rid of blackheads

However tempting it may seem, squeezing is not the best way to get rid of blackheads as it can lead to infection, inflammation, and scarring.

There are a whole host of home remedies that you can try to get rid of your blackheads and clogged pores, here are our top 15 home remedies for blackheads…

1 – Baking Soda

Baking soda is a great way to get rid of blackheads and you’ll almost certainly have some tucked away in your store cupboard.

The fine granules that make up the baking soda act as a natural exfoliant, clearing out anything that is clogging up your pores and causing blackheads.

Directions

First, mix a tablespoon of baking soda with a few drops of water so that it forms a thick, spreadable paste.
Then, apply to the problem areas, gently massaging it into your skin using a circular motion.
Rinse with lukewarm water and pat your face dry with a towel.
Moisturize to keep your skin nice and soft.

Remember that baking soda can be quite drying on the skin due to its saltiness, so make sure you only use it one to two times per week.

2 – Tomatoes

Thanks to their antiseptic properties, tomatoes can be really effective when it comes to natural blackhead removal.

Directions

Take a medium to large sized tomato and mash it up using a fork or spoon.
Next apply the juice and peel to your face, concentrating on the problem areas.
Leave the tomato treatment on for as long as you can (overnight for optimum results, although it can get messy!)
Rinse your face with warm water

3 – Cinnamon

If you’re wondering how to get rid of blackheads, cinnamon can be a good place to start. This anti-bacterial spice is widely available and also smells great!

Directions

Mix together one part organic cinnamon with two parts organic honey until it forms a nice thick paste.
Apply a thin layer to your problem areas (most people tend to get blackheads on their nose or forehead)
Leave the paste to work its magic for at least 15 minutes (the longer the better!)
Wash the paste away and finish with a nice dose of moisturizer.

4 – Lemon and Sugar

Whether you’re suffering from blackheads on your nose or forehead, or anywhere else on your body for that matter, a lemon and sugar scrub can help to unclog your pores. The two ingredients work really well together, with the sugar balancing out the acidic lemon and the lemon softening the rough sugar.

Directions

Add a few squeezes of lemon juice to sugar. You can use brown or white sugar, which ever you’ve got in the house.
Mix the lemon and sugar together until it forms a thick paste.
Use the mixture to scrub your problem areas.
Rinse with warm water and moisturize.

5 – Green Tea

Green Tea is not only good for your body, it is also a great home remedy for blackheads. The high levels of vitamins and anti-oxidants in the green tea help to break up any excess oil, which can lead to blackheads and other comedones, as well as helping to reduce any inflammation.

Directions

Boil 8oz of water and remove from the heat.
Place two bags of organic green tea in the boiled water and allow to soak for around an hour.
Once an hour has passed, pour the liquid into a bowl and allow it to cool until lukewarm.
Using cotton wool, dab the liquid onto the blackheads and other problem areas, and allow to dry (try and leave it on for at least 10 minutes).
Rinse your face with cool water and pat dry before moisturizing.

As this process is nice and gentle on the skin, you can repeat it daily to keep your skin clear and blackhead free.

6 – Fenugreek

You might not have heard of it, but Fenugreek is one of the easiest and most effective home remedies for blackheads.

Directions

Mix fresh fenugreek leaves with water until you have a thick paste.
Apply the mixture to any areas affected by clogged pores.
Sit back, relax, and allow the paste to dry. This usually takes around 10 – 15 minutes.
Rinse with warm water and pat dry.

Repeat daily to treat blackheads, other comedones, and blemishes.

7 – Apple Cider

Apple cider is another natural home remedy that can be used to get rid of and prevent unsightly blackheads. The natural acids found in the apple cider make it a great accessible and affordable toner. Additionally, if you have skin tags, ACV is excellent at getting rid of them. Check out our infographic showing how to get rid of skin tags with apple cider vinegar.

How to get rid of blackheads with apple cider vinegar.

Directions

If your apple cider has a high concentration, mix it with a splash of water to reduce the acidity (you don’t want to cause irritation or damage your skin!).
Apply the cider to cotton wool or a cleansing cloth and gentle wipe across the face, focussing on problem areas such as the nose and forehead.

8 – Honey

Most of us probably have a jar of honey lurking somewhere in the kitchen. But have you ever thought about using it to treat your skin?

As both an anti-bacterial and an antiseptic, honey is really effective in the treatment of blackheads and other skin complaints. Of course, if you are allergic to honey, this is not an advisable treatment!

Directions

Put a teaspoon of pure raw honey into a small jar and place it into a bowl of hot water.
Leave the jar in the water until it is warm to the touch.
Dab the warm honey onto the areas affected by blackheads and leave it to soak in for around 10 minutes.
Using a warm, damp cloth, remove the honey and rinse your face.

For best results, repeat this process daily.

9 – Turmeric

Turmeric has amazing anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making it perfect for the treatment of blackheads. Remember though, that the spice that you use for cooking will stain your skin (and that’s not going to be a good look for anyone!). So make sure that you use Kasturi turmeric rather than the edible kind, you can usually find this in any Indian markets or stores. Here’s how to get rid of blackheads with turmeric.

Directions

Mix a small amount of turmeric (remember to use the Kasturi kind!) with water or coconut oil.
Mix the ingredients together until they form a thick paste.
Dab the paste onto any blackheads, other comedones, or blemishes and allow it to soak for around 10 – 15 minutes.
Rinse your face with warm water and pat dry
Repeat daily for optimum results.

10 – Epsom Salts

Epsom salts are not just great for muscles, they also offer an effective solution to the problem of how to get rid of blackheads, helping to unclog each pore and wash the contents away.

Directions

Mix one teaspoon of Epsom Salts in hot water, stirring until the salts have dissolved completely, and add a couple of drops of iodine to the mixture.
Allow it to cool until it reaches room temperature.
Using cotton wool, apply the mixture to the forehead, nose, and any other problem areas, and leave to dry.
Gently wash the face clean using a clean cloth, and pat dry.

11 – Lemon Juice

With its high alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) citric acid content, lemon juice naturally removes dead skin and is perfect for blackhead removal. The vitamin C found in lemon juice is also an anti-oxidant and stimulates collagen production, helping to improve the overall health of the skin and reducing scarring.

Directions

Firstly, wash your face with a gentle, natural cleanser.
Squeeze a teaspoon of juice from an organic lemon into a bowl.
Using a small cotton ball, dab the lemon juice onto your blackheads and clogged pores.
Allow the juice to dry, this usually takes around 10 – 15 minutes, and then rinse with clean, cold water.
You can use this gentle treatment once every day to keep your skin clear and free from blackheads and blemishes.

12 – Egg and Honey

Mixing natural honey with raw egg whites will create an effective paste that will not only remove your blackheads, it will also leave your skin with a beautiful, natural glow.

Directions

Crack a raw, free-range egg and extract the yolk.
Dispose of the yolk and place the egg white in a bowl.
Add natural honey and mix well until a paste forms.
Apply the paste all over your face, concentrating on problem areas such as the nose and forehead.
Leave the paste to dry for around thirty minutes, before rinsing with warm water and patting the face dry with a clean cloth or towel.

13 – Oatmeal

When you’re considering how to get rid of blackheads, oatmeal might not be the first thing that springs to mind! But with its ability to soothe irritation, remove dead skin cells, and soak up excess oil, it should definitely be on your list.

Directions

Cook enough oatmeal to cover your blackheads.
Allow the oats to cool to room temperature and apply to the problem areas.
Leave the mask to dry for 10 to 20 minutes and rinse with warm water.

Alternatively, you can try this yogurt and oatmeal mask…

Mix together three teaspoons of yogurt with two teaspoons of oatmeal and a few drops of olive oil and lemon juice.
Apply the paste to your face, as you would a facemask.
Allow to soak in for around 10 minutes before rinsing with warm water.

14 – H20

In addition to all of these treatments and remedies, washing your face with water once or twice each and everyday is vital. This helps to prevent blackheads by washing away excess sebum and dead skin, keeping the pores clear and smaller in appearance.

Directions

Twice each day, splash your face with fresh, clean water. The optimum times to do this are morning and evening, or afternoon and evening.
Gently pat your face dry with a soft towel.
Apply your moisturizer to prevent your skin from drying out, if this happens, it will produce excess sebum to accommodate for the dryness and you’ll be back to square one!

15 – Toothbrush and toothpaste

If you can’t get your hands on any of the other home remedies listed above, you can always try a toothbrush and toothpaste – although we’d recommend investing in a new toothbrush, rather than the one you use to brush your teeth! Personally I would try all the other home remedies on this how to get rid of blackheads post first, but lots of people do swear by using toothpaste to get rid of blackheads, so we’ve included it on the list.

Directions

Put a small amount of toothpaste on the toothbrush and wet both the toothbrush and the problem area on your face or body.
Very gently, scrub the affected area with the toothbrush, taking care not to brush too hard and damage the skin.
Make sure you avoid the eye area as the toothpaste can cause stinging and irritation.
Repeat this process each day until your blackheads clear up, but make sure that you soak the toothbrush after each scrub with boiling hot water.

There you go – 15 home remedies that solve the problem of how to get rid of blackheads fast, without expensive blackhead creams and strips.