Phitkari: Alum Benefits, Use And Side Effects

Alum, also known as Phitkari, is a transparent, salt-like substance commonly used in cooking and for various medicinal purposes. There are different types of Fitkari, including Potassium Fitkari, Ammonium Fitkari, Chrome Fitkari, and Selenate Fitkari.

In traditional medicine, specifically Ayurveda, Fitkari is prepared as a fine ash called Sphatika Bhasma. When mixed with honey, this form of Fitkari is used to treat whooping cough by helping to clear mucus from the lungs. Additionally, taking Sphatika Bhasma twice daily can alleviate symptoms of dysentery and diarrhea because of its ability to absorb moisture.

Fitkari has several other uses. For instance, when mixed with wax, it has been used by women to remove unwanted hair. Its astringent properties make it effective for skin care, such as tightening and whitening the skin. Fitkari helps shrink skin cells and remove excess oil, making it useful for reducing acne scars and pigmentation marks. Applying Fitkari topically can also help heal mouth ulcers due to its strong healing properties.

Fitkari is known by many names, including Phitkiri, Potassium Fitkariinum Sulphate, Bulk Potassium Fitkari, Sulphate of Fitkariina and Potash, Fitkariinous Sulphate, Phitikhar, Phitkar, Phatikari, Surashtraja, Kamakshi, Tuvari, Sithi, Angda, Venmali, Phatkiri, Phatkari, Patikaram, Adikharum, Shinacrum, Pattikaramu, Tawas, and Trae phitki. This substance is derived from plant-based sources.

What is Alum?

Alum is a naturally occurring mineral found in both pure and impure forms. This mineral salt is obtained from soil ore found in regions such as Nepal, Bihar, Punjab, and Kathiawar. It appears as a colorless, clear, odorless crystalline mass or granular powder with a sweet, astringent taste. Alum is also found in countries like Egypt, Italy, England, Germany, and India.

Alum is known by various names in different languages and regions. For example, in Bengali, it is called phitkari or phatkiri. In English, it is referred to as aluminous sulphate, sulphate of alumina and potash, or sulphate of aluminium and ammonium. In Gujarati, it is known as phatkari, while in Hindi, it is called phitkari or phitikhari. In Punjabi, it is fatkari. In Tamil, it is referred to as pati-karam, padikharam, or shinacarum. In Sanskrit, it is known as sphatikari, surashtraja, kamakshi, or tuvari. In Sindhi, it is called pitki.

When alum is heated, it melts at about 200 degrees Celsius, turning into an anhydrous salt. It is often found with impurities when sold in markets, but it can be processed to make it suitable for various health uses. Alum is widely used in pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and food products due to its strong astringent properties. It comes in four different colors: white, green, yellow, and red. The white variant is known as phitkari, the green one as heera kasees, the yellow one as kasees, and the red one as surkh phitkari. According to Unani physicians, a notable quality of alum is that it easily shatters.

How to Use Alum

Using Fitkari for Various Purposes

Fitkari Bhasma: Use 1-2 pinches of Fitkari Bhasma twice daily.

Fitkari Powder for Internal Use:

1.         Take 1-2 pinches of Fitkari powder.

2.         Mix it with 1 teaspoon of honey.

3.         Consume this mixture once or twice daily after meals.

Fitkari Powder for External Use:

Wound Cleaning:

1.         Add 2-3 pinches of Fitkari powder to lukewarm water.

2.         Use this mixture to wash your wounds.

3.         Rinse the wound with plain water afterward. Do this 2-3 times daily.

Tooth Powder:

1.         Take 2-3 pinches of Fitkari powder.

2.         Use it as a tooth powder twice daily.

Fitkari Block for Aftershave:

1.         Take ½ to 1 Fitkari block.

2.         Wet the block thoroughly.

3.         Rub it over your face after shaving.

4.         Let it dry naturally.

Benefits of Alum

1. Bleeding Piles

Piles, or hemorrhoids, are caused by a poor diet and lack of physical activity, leading to issues with digestion and swelling in the veins of the rectum. This can result in painful, swollen tissue that sometimes bleeds. Fitkari can help control this bleeding because it has properties that constrict tissue and stop bleeding. To use Fitkari for piles:

1. Take a small amount of Fitkari powder.
2. Mix it with honey.
3. Consume this mixture twice daily after light meals.

2. Whooping Cough

Whooping cough is a condition that causes severe coughing fits. Fitkari helps reduce the symptoms by decreasing mucus in the lungs and preventing vomiting due to its astringent properties. To use Fitkari for whooping cough:

1. Take a small amount of Fitkari powder.
2. Mix it with honey.
3. Take this mixture twice daily after light meals.

3. Heavy Menstrual Bleeding

Heavy menstrual bleeding, or menorrhagia, can be managed with Fitkari. This condition is often due to imbalances in the body, and Fitkari helps by balancing these and stopping excessive bleeding. To use Fitkari for heavy menstrual bleeding:

1. Take a small amount of Fitkari powder.
2. Mix it with honey.

•           Consume this mixture twice daily after light meals.

4. Bleeding Cuts

For minor cuts, Fitkari can help stop the bleeding and speed up healing. This is due to its hemostatic properties. To use Fitkari for bleeding cuts:

1. Mix a small amount of Fitkari powder with coconut oil.
2. Apply the mixture to the cut to control bleeding and promote healing.

5. Wound Healing

Fitkari can speed up the healing of wounds, reduce swelling, and restore the skin’s normal texture. Its properties help control bleeding and assist in healing. To use Fitkari for wound healing:

1. Mix Fitkari powder with water and heat it.
2. Allow the mixture to cool and use it to wash the wound several times a day.

6. Mouth Ulcers

Mouth ulcers can be painful and slow to heal. Fitkari helps these heal faster due to its astringent and healing properties. To use Fitkari for mouth ulcers:

1. Mix a small amount of Fitkari powder with honey.
2. Apply the mixture to the ulcer once or twice daily.

7. Leucorrhea

Leucorrhea is a condition characterized by a thick, whitish discharge from the female genitalia. Fitkari helps manage this condition due to its astringent properties when used as a vaginal wash. To use Fitkari for leucorrhea:

1. Mix Fitkari powder with water and heat it.
2. Let it cool and use it to wash the affected area several times a day.

8. Infections

Fitkari has been shown to have antibacterial and antifungal properties. It can help fight various infections by inhibiting the growth of bacteria and fungi. Fitkari mouthwash can reduce harmful bacteria in the mouth, and its antifungal properties can help with conditions like oral thrush and mouth ulcers.

9. Platelet Function

In animal studies, Fitkari has shown potential in reducing platelet aggregation and increasing bleeding time, suggesting it might be useful as an antiplatelet drug. However, more research is needed to confirm these effects in humans.

10. Obesity

Fitkari has shown potential in reducing body weight and related health markers in animal studies. It may decrease food intake, lower cholesterol levels, and reduce body fat. Further studies are needed to confirm its effectiveness in humans.

11. Stomatitis

Stomatitis, or inflammation of the mouth, can be caused by various medications. Topical application of Fitkari, possibly mixed with honey, may help manage this condition. More research is needed to confirm its effectiveness.

12. Post-Operative Wounds

Fitkari might aid in the healing of post-operative wounds. Dissolving Fitkari in water and using it to clean wounds can potentially promote healing. However, it is crucial to consult a doctor before using Fitkari for this purpose.

13. Tumor Reduction

In animal studies, Fitkari has shown potential in reducing tumor growth. These findings suggest Fitkari might have anti-tumor properties, but more research is needed to confirm this in humans. It is important to consult a doctor for the diagnosis and treatment of tumors.

While Fitkari shows promise for various health benefits, further studies are needed to fully understand its effects on human health. Always consult a healthcare professional before using Fitkari for medical purposes.

Side Effects of Alum

Alum can cause a variety of side effects when used. These side effects include making your skin dry and causing skin irritation. Some people may feel dizzy or experience a tight feeling in their throat. Alum can also lead to fluid buildup around the eyes, resulting in puffiness.

In some cases, alum use can cause red and itchy skin, known as hives, and in more severe cases, it can trigger a hypersensitivity reaction. This means your body reacts strongly to the alum, which can sometimes lead to a life-threatening allergic reaction. Additionally, using alum can cause your face to become puffy due to water retention and can result in skin ulcers.

Moreover, it can cause swelling in the throat and make breathing difficult. These symptoms highlight the importance of being cautious when using alum, as it can have serious side effects on your health.

Chemical Composition of Alum

Alum is made up of potassium, aluminum, hydrogen, sulfur, and oxygen.

Properties of Alum

1.         Antibacterial Agent: Alum can help fight bacteria and prevent infections.

2.         Antiplatelet Property: Alum might prevent blood platelets from clumping together, reducing the risk of blood clots.

3.         Anti-Obesity Activity: Alum may help in managing weight and reducing obesity.

4.         Anti-Hemorrhagic Agent: Alum can stop bleeding and is useful for treating wounds.

5.         Anti-Inflammatory Potential: Alum can reduce swelling and inflammation in the body.

6.         Antidandruff Property: Alum may help control dandruff on the scalp.

7.         Anti-Asthmatic Property: Alum might help in managing asthma symptoms and making breathing easier.

Summarizing the Benefits of Alum

1.         Antiseptic Properties: Alum can disinfect wounds and prevent infection.

2.         Astringent: It tightens the skin and reduces the appearance of pores.

3.         Hemostatic: Alum helps stop minor bleeding from cuts and abrasions.

4.         Oral Health: It can reduce bad breath and help treat gum diseases.

5.         Teeth Whitening: Alum can be used to remove stains from teeth.

6.         Deodorant: It neutralizes body odor by killing odor-causing bacteria.

7.         Anti-inflammatory: Reduces swelling and inflammation when applied to the skin.

8.         Acne Treatment: Alum can help dry out acne and reduce blemishes.

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9.         Shaving Cuts: Applying alum on shaving cuts can stop bleeding and disinfect the area.

10.       Foot Odor: Soaking feet in alum water can reduce foot odor.

11.       Mouth Ulcers: Alum can soothe and heal mouth ulcers.

12.       Hair Removal: Alum powder can be used after hair removal to soothe the skin.

13.       Lice Treatment: It helps in treating and preventing lice infestation.

14.       Wrinkle Reduction: Regular use of alum can help reduce fine lines and wrinkles.

15.       Tonsillitis Relief: Gargling with alum water can reduce throat inflammation.

16.       Skin Tightening: Alum can improve skin elasticity and firmness.

17.       Wound Healing: Speeds up the healing process of minor wounds and cuts.

18.       Anti-fungal: Effective in treating fungal infections on the skin.

19.       Hair Growth: Used in hair tonics, alum can promote hair growth.

20.       Skin Whitening: Alum can lighten dark spots and pigmentation.

21.       Body Scrub: Alum can be used in scrubs to exfoliate dead skin cells.

22.       Dandruff Control: It can help reduce dandruff when used on the scalp.

23.       Urinary Tract Infections: Alum water can be used to treat minor UTIs.

24.       Eye Wash: Alum solution can be used to cleanse the eyes and reduce redness.

25.       Postpartum Care: It is used in traditional practices to aid postpartum healing.

26.       Nail Health: Strengthens nails and prevents infections.

27.       Canker Sores: Reduces pain and speeds healing of canker sores.

28.       Scar Reduction: Regular use can lighten scars over time.

29.       Boil Treatment: Applying alum paste on boils can help reduce them.

30.       Chafing Relief: Prevents and treats skin chafing in sensitive areas

Conclusion

In conclusion, Phitkari, or alum, offers numerous benefits and applications, but it’s essential to be aware of its uses and potential side effects. Alum has been traditionally valued for its antiseptic, astringent, and healing properties, making it useful in various health and personal care practices. From wound healing to oral care and skincare, alum has shown effectiveness in many areas.

However, like any substance, alum does have potential side effects that users should be cautious of. Skin irritation, allergic reactions, and other adverse effects may occur, especially with prolonged or improper use. Therefore, it’s crucial to use alum judiciously and consult with a healthcare professional if any concerns arise.

Overall, understanding both the benefits and potential drawbacks of alum can help individuals make informed decisions about its use in their daily lives. When used properly, alum can be a valuable addition to personal care routines, offering its beneficial properties while minimizing the risk of side effects.

Frequently Asked Questions About Alum

Q. Is Fitkari safe to use?

Yes, Fitkari is safe to use both externally and internally. It is often used in various forms for different purposes, including traditional medicinal practices.

Q. How much Fitkari should I put in my water?

The amount of Fitkari needed depends on how cloudy the water is. Clear water requires less Fitkari, typically around 5 mg, while cloudy water needs more, up to 70 mg.

Q. What does Fitkari do?

Fitkari has many uses. It’s commonly used in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and food industries.

Q. Is Fitkari a spice?

 No, Fitkari is not a spice. It is a crystalline mineral used as a preservative in some foods and pickles. It’s important to use it in moderation in food.

Q. How does Fitkari help in controlling bleeding?

Fitkari has astringent properties that help reduce bleeding from minor wounds by causing the skin to contract and close.

Q. Is Fitkari acidic or alkaline?

 Fitkari is acidic, with a 1% solution having a pH of about 3.

Q. How do you apply Fitkari to underarms?

To lighten dark underarms with Fitkari:

1.         Rub a piece of Fitkari gently on your underarms.

2.         Leave it on for 20 minutes.

3.         Wash it off with plain water. Regular use can help lighten the skin.

Q. What is Fitkari used for in cooking?

 In cooking, Fitkari is used as a preservative in bakery products, pickles, and to keep fruits and vegetables fresh.

Q. How to use Fitkari on the face?

To use Fitkari on your face after shaving:

1.         Wet an Fitkari block.

2.         Rub it gently onto the shaved area.

3.         Let it dry, then rinse with cool water.

Q. Is Fitkari good for piles?

 Yes, Fitkari can help with piles by reducing blood flow to the affected area, which helps shrink the piles and alleviate symptoms.

Q. Does Fitkari cause diarrhea?

 No, Fitkari helps control diarrhea due to its astringent properties.

Q. Does Fitkari cause constipation?

Fitkari can improve digestion but may cause constipation in those already prone to it because of its astringent nature.

Q. Is Fitkari safe to ingest?

 Yes, Fitkari can be ingested in a specific processed form known as Sphatika Bhasma, which is made by heating Fitkari until it becomes a powder.

Q. What are the uses of Fitkari for teeth?

 Fitkari helps prevent tooth decay and control bleeding gums due to its antiseptic and astringent properties. Use it as a mouthwash by mixing a pinch of Fitkari powder in warm water.

Q. Is Fitkari good for mouth ulcers?

Yes, Fitkari is beneficial for mouth ulcers. It reduces pain and inflammation, promotes healing, and prevents recurrence by shrinking and drying out the sores.

Q. Is Fitkari good for bleeding gums?

Yes, Fitkari helps control bleeding gums by shrinking the gum tissue and strengthening the gums.

Q. Is Fitkari good for injuries due to burn?

Yes, applying Fitkari can help heal burn injuries by promoting wound contraction, removing dead tissue, and encouraging new skin cell growth.

Q. Is Fitkari good for tightening the skin?

 Yes, Fitkari is effective for skin tightening due to its astringent properties, which cause cells to shrink and reduce excess oil. It is often used in skincare products.

Q. Is Fitkari good for canker sores?

 Yes, Fitkari helps treat canker sores by shrinking the tissue and drying out the sores, which reduces their size and prevents bacterial growth.

Q. Is Fitkari good for eye abscess?

There is not enough information to support the use of Fitkari for eye abscesses.

Q. Is Fitkari good for cracked heels?

 Yes, Fitkari can help soften and smooth cracked heels due to its astringent properties, which also reduce redness and promote healing.

Q. Can Fitkari be used to remove pimples?

 Yes, Fitkari can help control pimples by removing dirt and bacteria from the skin pores and reducing inflammation.

Q. Can Fitkari help remove wrinkles?

 There is not enough evidence to support Fitkari’s effectiveness in removing wrinkles.

Q. Can Fitkari be used for hair removal?

 While there is limited scientific information, traditionally, Fitkari mixed with wax has been used for hair removal.

Q. Does Fitkari help in skin whitening?

 Yes, Fitkari helps lighten the skin by removing excess oil and causing cells to shrink, which can enhance skin tone.

Q. Can we use Fitkari for shaving?

 Yes, Fitkari can be used during or after shaving to prevent bleeding from cuts due to its astringent and antibacterial properties, which help in healing and preventing infections.

 Reference