Natural Red Alum/Phitkari
Surkh, Fitkari Surkh (پھٹکری سرخ) crystal is formed next to volcanic
fumaroles. it is also known as Aluminum Potassium Sulfate. Being
water soluble, natural alum was originally obtained from desert sources. In the
seventeenth century, alum began to be manufactured from impure alum shale which
is found in Britain. Due to its unusual properties, red alum has long been one
of the most valued medicinal, personal, craft and industrial resources.
The key medicinal
properties of red alum are astringent, antiseptic, antimicrobial and it is
strongly deodorizing.
Uses of Red Alum:
1.
Alum stone is commonly
used for after shaving treatment. It is used a styptic for minor bleeding from
shaving cuts.
2.
Alum is used as a natural
deodorant for body odor as it has the capability of inhibiting bacterial growth
which is responsible for body odor.
3.
Alum is used to treat
minor bleeding resulting from minor cuts and abrasions. Sprinkling alum powder
can help to stop bleeding. However deep cuts and non stop bleeding requires
medical intervention.
4.
Alum is used in water
purification treatment widely. Alum attracts fine particles and suspended
materials in raw water. It settles down those particles at the bottom of the
water. The water over those particles are clean other than the dissolved
particles. Hence alum powder is widely used in purifying muddy water when
people go for camping.
5.
Alum powder is used to
treat canker sores easily. Just place a pinch of alum powder on top of the sore
and leave it for 30 seconds. Wash it off thoroughly. Repeat this for 2-3 times
daily till the canker sores go off. You will get complete cure mostly within 3
days.
6.
Alum is used for pimples,
acne marks, acne scars and acne treatment widely. Alum is used for tightening
the skin too.
7.
Alum powder is one of the
home remedy to treat athlete’s foot. Add 2-3 tbsp of alum powder in hot water
and soak the feet in the water till the water remains hot or warm. Soak for a
minimum of 20 minutes. Dry the feet and do not wear any synthetic fabrics till
the athlete’s foot is cured. Repeat this daily to get rid of athlete’s foot
quickly.
8.
Alum is widely used for
hair removal. Women in ancient ages used alum for removing unwanted facial
hairs like upper lip hair.
9.
Alum can be used
effectively to get rid of hair lice. To make the lice treatment, powdered alum
is mixed in water along with little tea tree oil. This mixture when applied on
the scalp for some time, helps to get rid of lice.
Side Effects:
Alum should not be
consumed internally. It is best suited for local applications only.