Uses & Benefits of Alum or Fitkari
Fitkari, or alum, is a versatile mineral salt widely used for personal care, oral health, wound healing, water purification, and kitchen cleaning due to its antibacterial properties.
Alum, commonly known as Fitkari in India, is a mineral salt with various benefits and applications. It is composed of potassium, aluminum, hydrogen, sulfur, and oxygen and is found in nature in both pure and impure forms. Fitkari is colorless, clear, and odorless, typically appearing as a crystalline mass or granular powder.
Originating from regions such as Nepal, Bihar, Punjab, and Kathiawar in India, as well as countries like Egypt, Italy, England, and Germany, Fitkari possesses notable antibacterial and antiplatelet properties, making it a valuable ingredient in pharmaceutical and cosmetic products.
Fitkari finds extensive use in everyday home remedies:
1. After-Shave Lotion: Fitkari is beneficial post-shave, aiding in skin repair, preventing infections, and treating issues like blackheads and acne. Its antibacterial properties promote skin health and prevent bleeding from cuts.
2. Antiperspirant Deodorant: It serves as a natural antiperspirant by shrinking sweat ducts and reducing odor-causing bacteria on the skin. Fitkari is commonly used in deodorant products.
3. Anti-Dandruff & Lice Treatment: Fitkari can combat dandruff when mixed with shampoo and applied to the scalp regularly. Additionally, a mixture of Fitkari powder with water and oil helps in lice removal.
4. Oral Health: Fitkari gargle can alleviate bad breath when dissolved in warm water with a pinch of rock salt. However, ingestion should be avoided due to potential adverse effects like nausea and vomiting. Furthermore, a paste of alum, cinnamon, and rock salt aids in treating bleeding gums, weak teeth, and dental cavities.
5. Healing Post-operative Wounds: Fitkari is applied to post-operative wounds to expedite healing and prevent infections, owing to its antibacterial properties.
6. Water Purification: Fitkari serves as an effective water purifier, eliminating solid impurities and bacteria from water. Addition of a small amount of Fitkari followed by sediment removal and heating ensures purified water.
7. Kitchen Cleaning: Alum blocks can be utilized for kitchen cleaning by soaking them in warm water and using the solution to clean countertops. This method facilitates effective cleaning.
In conclusion, Fitkari or alum is a versatile substance with numerous applications ranging from personal hygiene to water purification and household cleaning. Its natural properties make it a valuable addition to various home remedies and products, contributing to overall health and cleanliness.
