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Benefits Of Potash (Kaun)


   Several natural mineral resources that are highly beneficial for human usage have been unraveled in the past and more are yet to be known. One of such important natural resource is potash, which is also known as kaun, akanwu or kanwa. Potash is a type of lake salt (sodium carbonate) that is dry and hydrated in nature.

This type of lake salt usually form and shoot out from the soil during rainy season but tends to fall off, solidifies and get dried during the dry season. Studies reveal that the akanwu salt is the second most popularly used salt in Nigeria. 

Commonly found in the Northern part of Nigeria. 

BENEFITS OF POTASH (KAUN)

      1. Culinary Purposes

     •Potash (Kaun) is edible and is usually used for cooking pulses like beans, akidi (black Mexican beans), fiofio (cowpea beans) etc in order to tenderize the pulses so easily.
     •Kaun is also added in ewedu and okro soup during preparations in order to boost the viscosity as well as to increase the greenness and texture of the vegetables.

        Although, potash is used for certain food preparations however, studies reveal that it is not suitable for our health thus Curtailing the level of consumption is highly advisable.

     Palmfruit ashes, ashes of roasted peels of unripe plantain and baking soda are an healthier alternative to potash.

       2. Toothache Relief

potash can be ground and mixed with water before applying on tooth to relieve toothache.

         3. Acts as a Preservative

Kaun solution can be used as a preservative.

       4. Fungicidal Properties

  •Potash (akanwu) contains fungicidal properties thus is capable of being used for cleaning purposes and preventing molds and mildews.

         5. Fertilizer Production

  •The potash of sulfur, which is a non-flammable white crystalline salt is chemically used for producing fertilizers due to its potassium and sulfur content.

       6. Abortion Induction
  
   •Studies reveal that potash can induce abortion in early pregnancies due to its ability to increase uterine contractility. Pregnant women are highly advised to refrain from taking any kind of potash concoction.

     
      7. Cough Treatment

    •Studies reveal that potash can act as an expectorant thus capable of curing cough.

        8. Constipation Relief
  
     • Studies reveal that the potash can act as an antacid thus can be used for constipation relief.

       9. Lactation Purposes

     •Studies reveal that potash is capable of increasing breast milk production and quality in new mothers. For example, the Hausa women use the potash to prepare special porridge with millet and guinea corn, which they often take after childbirth in order to boost breast milk production.

DISCLAIMER:

This post is for enlightenment purposes only and should not be used as a replacement for professional treatments.
     Remember to always consult your healthcare provider.

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