Potassium alum is a semi-transparent, white colored stone. It can be used for various applications in health and beauty, and is most commonly used as a natural antiperspirant.
However, this stone can also be used to treat canker sores, soften stretch marks and even speed up the healing of small wounds. You can buy it in the form of a small stone, salts, spray or powder in health food stores, fairs and some markets.
There is also potassium permanganate, which is similar but can be used differently. Learn more about the uses of potassium permanganate.
Common uses
Potassium alum can be used in many different ways, although it is most known for its antiperspirant action. However, there are other popular applications, including:
1. Reducing perspiration
This is the main use for potassium alum, as this mineral is capable of regulating the amount of sweat that is released during the day. It also leaves a thin, transparent layer on the skin that combats the growth of bacteria present in the most superficial layer of the skin, and reducing the smell of sweat.
How to use: Wet the stone and apply to the desired area area. You can also buy the stone in powder form and apply to the area. The stone can be used to reduce sweating on any part of the body, especially the armpits, feet and back.
2. Fade stretch marks
Potassium alum, similar to coarse salt, can be used to exfoliate the skin when showering, removing dead cells and stimulating circulation and collagen fiber production. This can help keep the skin healthy and reduce the appearance of red stretch marks.
How to use: While showering, mix 3 tablespoons of liquid body soap (or sweet almond oil) with 1 tablespoon with potassium alum salts and apply to the area you want to treat. Massage it into the skin gently using circular movements. Then rinse off with warm or cold water until all the residue has been removed. After bathing, apply a moisturizing cream to maintain the health and integrity of the skin. This scrub should be done 1-2 times a week.
3. Treating canker sores
Potassium alum has excellent antibacterial and healing properties that help eliminate the bacteria that cause canker sores. This mineral can also speed-up the healing of these lesions. As a result, the duration of canker sores can be reduced and, in some cases, they can even disappear in just 24 hours.
How to use: You can apply the potassium alum powder or spray directly to the canker sore, although this can cause a very intense burning sensation. Alternatively, you can dilute 2 tablespoons of powder in a cup of water and then gargle or rinse your mouth, repeating 3 to 5 times. If you notice more sores growing, or if you have moderate pain, you should see a doctor for further assessment.
4. Eliminating pimples
Due to its antiseptic properties, potassium alum is able to effectively eliminate the bacteria present in the first layer of the skin, which can promote deep cleansing. It also helps to improve the texture of the skin, closing the pores and making it more difficult for new pimples to appear.
How to use: Mix 1 tablespoon of potassium alum powder with 2 tablespoons of green clay and 1 cup of water and mix until it forms a homogenous paste. Apply to the face and leave it on for 30 minutes. Then rinse with warm or cold water and pat the skin dry with a soft towel.
5. Healing small wounds
Potassium alum can be used to stop the bleeding of small wounds and facilitate healing, and is often used by manicurists when caring for nails. This mineral helps to contract the blood vessels to stop bleeding, as well as promote healing from small lacerations.
How to use: Wet the stone and apply directly to the cut, or apply a small amount of potassium alum powder to the injured area. Remove the powder when there is no more bleeding. If the potassium alum does not stop the bleeding, you should seek medical assistance.
Can you use potassium alum vaginally?
Potassium alum has been used as a natural method to narrow the vaginal canal and increase pleasure during sex. However, using the stone for this purpose can pose health risks, as potassium alum has the ability to alter vaginal pH. This can cause the vaginal walls to dry out, increasing the risk of developing bacterial or viral infections.
A safer and more effective way of narrowing the vaginal canal is to perform exercises that strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, known as kegel exercises.
