If you’ve ever baked, chances are you’ve encountered cream of tartar in recipes. But what exactly is it, and how does it go beyond the kitchen? Cream of tartar is much more than just a pantry staple for baking. From soothing arthritis to helping you quit smoking, this humble white powder offers numerous health benefits. Let’s explore what cream of tartar is, its origins, and the variety of incredible uses it has beyond whipping up fluffy meringues.
What is Cream of Tartar?
Contrary to what some may think, cream of tartar is not related to tartar sauce. According to The Kitchn, cream of tartar is the acidic by-product of wine fermentation. When grape juice is fermented into wine, a sediment known as potassium hydrogen tartrate forms. This sediment is purified and turned into the white powder we know as cream of tartar.
The name “cream of tartar” comes from its chemical composition, potassium hydrogen tartrate, and it has long been used in cooking for stabilizing egg whites and preventing sugar crystallization. But that’s just scratching the surface. Here are some of the surprising benefits of cream of tartar outside the kitchen.
1. Soothe Arthritis Pain Naturally
Arthritis can cause debilitating pain, and many people seek natural remedies to relieve it. Ted Harper, featured on Eric Bakker N.D.’s website, shares an Australian recipe that uses cream of tartar as a key ingredient to help combat arthritis symptoms. This natural treatment involves mixing orange, lemon, grapefruit, and Epsom salts with water and cream of tartar. The combination is said to help reduce inflammation and alleviate joint pain.
By using cream of tartar’s rich potassium content, this mixture helps balance your body’s minerals, potentially soothing arthritis-related discomfort without relying on pharmaceutical drugs.
2. Treat Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
Cream of tartar is also a go-to remedy for urinary tract infections. According to Everyday Roots, cream of tartar alters the pH level of urine, making it a less hospitable environment for bacteria. To help clear a UTI at home, mix 1 1/2 teaspoons of cream of tartar into a cup of warm water. Add a splash of lemon or lime for extra vitamin C to enhance your immune response.
This solution can be consumed once or twice daily until the infection subsides. However, if your symptoms persist, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider.
3. Quit Smoking with Cream of Tartar
Quitting smoking is no easy feat, but cream of tartar might just give you the support you need. According to WikiHow, cream of tartar is effective at helping the body eliminate nicotine, reducing cravings and making it easier to quit. When mixed with orange juice, the vitamin C from the juice works in tandem with the potassium in cream of tartar to flush out toxins and support the immune system.
Try drinking a glass of orange juice with 1 teaspoon of cream of tartar nightly before bed to help rid your body of nicotine and reduce withdrawal symptoms.
4. Fight Heartburn Without Medications
Heartburn can be extremely uncomfortable, but you don’t have to rely on pharmaceutical antacids to get relief. Home Remedies for Life suggests a natural heartburn remedy using 1/2 teaspoon of cream of tartar and 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda mixed in a glass of water. Drink 1 teaspoon of this solution as soon as you feel heartburn symptoms.
This combination helps neutralize stomach acid quickly, offering relief without the chemicals often found in over-the-counter antacids.
5. Clear Acne and Heal Skin
Struggling with acne? Cream of tartar’s detoxifying properties may help you clear your skin from the inside out. Bukisa recommends drinking 1 tablespoon of cream of tartar in 8 ounces of water every morning. Over time, you may notice fewer breakouts and an overall improvement in skin clarity.
Cream of tartar helps eliminate toxins and impurities from the body, which can contribute to acne. It’s a simple, affordable way to support your skin’s health naturally.
6. Prevent Gallstones
Gallstones are painful and often require medical intervention. However, there are natural ways to help prevent their formation. A homemade concoction using cream of tartar, Epsom salt, and lemon juice may help keep gallstones at bay, as recommended by Mrs. Lena Brown on Cure Zone.
To make this preventive drink, mix the juice of six lemons with 1 tablespoon of Epsom salt and 3 tablespoons of cream of tartar in a quart-sized jar of water. Drink a small glass of this mixture nightly. This home remedy could potentially reduce the likelihood of gallstone formation, making it a valuable tool for those prone to them.
7. Combat Bacterial Infections
Bacterial infections can cause a range of uncomfortable symptoms, including fever, swelling, and inflammation. Five Remedies suggests that cream of tartar can help treat bacterial infections by making the body more alkaline, which creates a hostile environment for bacteria.
To use it for this purpose, mix 1/2 teaspoon of cream of tartar with 1/2 cup of warm water and drink it once a day. This simple solution can help support the body’s defenses against bacterial infections while promoting a balanced pH level.
8. Lower High Blood Pressure
If you’re suffering from high blood pressure due to a potassium deficiency, cream of tartar may be an effective supplement. As Richters explains, potassium is crucial for regulating blood pressure, and a deficiency could contribute to hypertension. By adding 1 teaspoon of cream of tartar to water, you may help replenish your potassium levels and naturally lower your blood pressure.
However, it’s always a good idea to consult your doctor before trying any home remedy, especially if you’re dealing with blood pressure issues.
Conclusion: The Versatility of Cream of Tartar
Who would have thought that cream of tartar, a common baking ingredient, could offer so many health benefits? From soothing arthritis and clearing acne to helping you quit smoking and prevent gallstones, this multipurpose powder is more than just a pantry staple. With its natural detoxifying and healing properties, cream of tartar is a fantastic addition to your health toolkit.
Always remember to use it with caution, particularly if you have underlying health conditions like kidney disease or a sensitive stomach. And, as with any home remedy, consulting with a healthcare professional is always a good idea to ensure it’s right for your unique health needs.
So, the next time you’re whipping up a batch of cookies, remember that the cream of tartar in your kitchen might just be your secret weapon for better health!
