By Jemimah Wellington, JKNewsMedia Correspondent
HOUSEHOLDS CAN use charcoal for more than cooking, with applications ranging from odour absorption to food preservation and personal hygiene, the release states, highlighting its benefits cited by experts.
For homes concerned about odours, material scientists note that placing charcoal in shoes can remove unpleasant smells.
It can also address room odours; dropping pieces in areas suspected to be the source can neutralise unpleasant smells.
Refrigerators and freezers can similarly benefit by storing a piece of charcoal to maintain freshness.
A release on this vital ingredient states that charcoal can be processed into powder and applied to manage strong body odours.
It also points out traditional uses, explaining that ashes from coal pots were often used in henhouses or toilets before sweeping to remove odours.
Vastly, charcoal is recommended for vegetable preservation.
Also, preparing a charcoal solution and soaking vegetables overnight can help maintain freshness.
The release suggests that this practice can mitigate concerns over chemical fertilisers, allowing vegetables to remain safe for consumption.
Other foods suspected of containing excess chemicals can also be soaked in a charcoal solution for several hours before use.
Personal care applications are also highlighted.
Charcoal combined with crushed plantain stem can be used as a natural tooth whitening method as the experts advise forming a powder from charcoal and using it with the plantain stem to brush teeth over the course of a week.
In culinary contexts, the release indicates that adding a piece of charcoal to a dish such as peanut or palm soup can restore flavour if the food develops off-tastes or odours.
Charcoal is also mentioned as a remedy for hangovers and alcohol-related discomfort.
It can actually be chewed directly or dissolved in a solution to alleviate effects from overconsumption.
The release further describes the use of charcoal for food and drink safety and also consuming charcoal solutions can address the impact of overindulgence or potentially unsafe mixes.
Charcoal is also suggested for treating contaminated water, either by soaking or chewing pieces, offering a purportedly safer alternative to commercial water treatment products.
Charcoal is identified as beneficial for wound care stating that applying charcoal powder directly to infected injuries is claimed to extract toxins and support healing.
The release extends its use to cups or containers for rapid treatment of affected areas.
It also adds skin care applications, including acne and other skin conditions.
Charcoal solutions applied to the body for several hours before bathing is said to leave skin refreshed and smooth. just as it is also recommended for removing persistent stains in kitchens, bathrooms, and tiled surfaces.
This cooking item can also alleviate digestive issues as the scientists note that consuming a charcoal solution can relieve bloating, stomach aches, and constipation.
It is further presented as a treatment for diarrhoea, amoeba infections, and ulcers, as well as a purported neutraliser of harmful viruses in the body.
Industrial and scientific experts said its additional household uses include softening the effects of chilli on the mouth or eyes and reducing excessive salt when used in combination with salt.
In fact, they said charcoal mixed with sugar or lemon is suggested for oral hygiene and dental care while asserting its application in addressing migraines, minor injuries, and overall hygiene in homes through strategic placement with salt in corners or water solutions.
They finalised that charcoal’s varied uses make it a valuable and multifunctional household product, with applications ranging from food safety and preservation to personal care and household hygiene.
