You can find alum powder in grocery stores, especially next to spices. It’s a food additive that gives fruits and vegetables a firm, crunchy texture when pickling or canning.
It’s also often used to treat canker sores. It works by sanitizing the gums and relieving pain.
Alum has been around for centuries and it’s one of the most popular ways to get rid of canker sores, as well as other skin irritations. Simply take a pinch of the powder and gargle it for about 5 minutes to relieve symptoms.
Another popular use of alum is to reduce foot odor. The natural alum powder helps control perspiration and fights off fungi that can cause body odors.
It can also be used to prevent wilting in cut hydrangea blooms. After cutting, dip a small section of the stem into alum powder before placing it in a vase to keep them from getting yellow and wilting.
There are many different forms of alum, including hydrated potassium alum (or potash alum), ammonium alum, and sodium alum. These are all sulfate salts of aluminum. They are commonly found in water purification, tanning agents, and baking powders. They are also used as an adjuvant in vaccines and a flame retardant. They also have cosmetic uses as a deodorant and aftershave. They can be bought online or at local retailers. The best way to store them is in a cool, dark place with a tight-fitting lid.
