Activated charcoal. There are several other uses of charcoal apart from providing heat energy. [Photo: tribune.com.pk]
Many of us just know activated charcoal for its primary use which is to provide heat energy that we use at our homes to cook, heat or even provide us with warmth during cold spells.However, there are several other uses of charcoal that you may not be aware of that could actually help you minimize your home expenses during these hard economic times. Here are some of the most popular secondary uses of charcoal.Activated charcoal that has been heated or otherwise treated to increase its adsorptive power. It is produced from materials that are carbon-dense (e.g.coconut husks, wood, coal, nutshells, and peat) that have been activated using gases (usually argon or nitrogen) orchemicals and then exposed to high temperatures.Treat acute poisoning and/or overdose: In some cases and when used along with other treatments, activated charcoal can be an effective way to rid the body of certain chemicals and toxins. The powder is mixed with water and can be drunk or administered via a tube into the throat and stomach.It is effective against bleach, fertilizer, mercury, pesticides, most organic compounds, aspirin, cocaine, morphine, and opium.Odour prevention: Charcoal is very good at getting rid of bad smell. Ever wondered why your parents always scooped out the ash from the coal pot to pour in the hen coop or toilet before sweeping? That was to get rid of the odour. You can use charcoal powder to remove bad odour in shoes, fridge, room or any other places with bad smell.Whitens your teeth: Activated charcoal is one of the best natural tooth whiteners on the planet, while promoting good oral health. It changes the PH balance in the mouth and can prevent cavities, gumdisease and bad breath. It works wonderfully as a natural, non-toxic toothpaste that you can easily make at home. Not only will it save you a lot of money, but you might actually see whiter teeth than everwith the stuff.Keeping food fresh: If you want your vegetables to be fresh all the time, just make a solution out of charcoal and leave your vegetables in them.Reduce or relieves bloating: Activated charcoal can be effective for reducing gas, especially after eating foods, such as beans, that commonly create excess gas. It can also relieve an upset stomach or nausea. However, it is worth repeating that activated charcoal should only be taken occasionally to relieve these symptoms, and should not be used every day.Relieves bites and bee stings: Mixing a poultice of activated charcoal with a bit of water and cornstarch or flaxseed powder can help cure bee stings, poison ivy rashes, snake bites, spider bites (including highlypoisoning bites from the Brown Recluse or Black Widow), and other poisoning bites. Charcoal poultice draws out poisons from insect and spider bites.