What should you do with an empty eggshell that you’ve cracked after breaking your egg? While most people would just throw the eggshell in the trash, you can grind it into eggshell powder. Interesting? Here, we share several things you can do with it. Moreover, you should be aware of the benefits and risks of consuming eggshell powder.
This article will explain how to use eggshell powder, its recipes, and its benefits and risks.
What is Eggshell? An informational overview
Eggs are one of the few foods that should be classified as “superfoods.” Generally, eggs are thought to be a dairy product, but they are not dairy like other items, including yogurt, milk, and cheese. They are loaded with nutrients. The hard, outermost covering of an egg is known as the eggshell. It contains mostly calcium in the form of calcium carbonate. The inner portion is made up of mainly protein and minerals.
Composition of eggshell:
The outer covering of an eggshell is composed of CaCO₃ (Calcium carbonate), which is known as calcite, and the inner shell membrane.
About 9–12% of an egg’s weight is made up of its shell, and when considering an eggshell’s chemical makeup, 98% of it is made up of dry matter, and 2% is water. The two main components of dry matter are crude protein (5%) and ash (93%).
Microscopically, eggshells are made up of a network of protein fibers that are connected to calcium, magnesium carbonate, and calcium phosphate crystals, as well as a few other organic materials, including water.
How to make eggshell powder? An easy method
We have compiled the easiest way to make eggshell powder. Just follow the following 5 easy steps to make powder.
- First of all, you need to collect eggshells. Then boil the eggshells in water for 10-15 minutes.
- After that, strain your eggshells and arrange them on a cookie sheet.
- Then, clean the eggshells and place the baking sheet in the oven.
- Cook for 20 to 25 minutes at 200 degrees or until eggshells are totally dry.
- Mash or mix your dry eggshells until a powder forms.
Top benefits of consuming eggshell powder:
The composition of an eggshell presents various benefits that are useful for the body’s normal functioning. Some of its benefits are given below:
Maintains general health:
Scientific research indicates that eating eggshells in powdered form is the most effective way to consume them. One can easily protect their physical well-being by adding this powder to their meals on a regular basis.
Eggshells contain chondroitin, collagen, and glucosamine, which can help relieve stiffness and discomfort in your joints. They can also play a beneficial role in thyroid problems.
A home remedy for thyroid gland issues can be made by smashing eggshells, adding lemon juice, and refrigerating it for at least seven days. Then, take one teaspoon daily on an empty stomach, along with honey.
Strengthens the bones:
Calcium is one of the most important minerals in the body, it is important to meet the daily requirements of the body in order to maintain healthy and strong bones.
Eggshell powder has been shown to lessen osteoporosis-related discomfort and improve patients’ mobility in clinical trials with postmenopausal women. The research has also established a link between the application of eggshell powder therapy and lessening bone deterioration and, in certain situations, an increase in total bone density (1).
Also, scientists are exploring the potential of eggshell power as a natural supply of calcium carbonate for bone transplant materials. These initiatives may offer a more affordable and easily absorbed calcium supply for bone grafting.
Eggshell powder as a Calcium Supplement:
You can use eggshell powder in place of calcium supplement pills. Calcium in eggshells will help with joint pain relief, osteoporosis prevention, and tooth regrowth. It also aids with nail growth.
As Teeth Whitener: Making of eggshell tooth powder
Eggshell powder is a great teeth whitener. To make the eggshell tooth powder, Simply follow these steps:
- Add one tablespoon of eggshell powder and a small pinch of baking soda in a cup.
- Make a paste by adding unrefined coconut oil.
- Use this paste to wash your teeth regularly; it will help get rid of plaque and tartar from teeth and make them whiter and brighter.
- Alternatively, you might use just the powder and apply it to your teeth each morning.
In a study that was published in the Journal of Clinical & Diagnostic Research, chemically demineralized teeth were treated with eggshell powder combined into a methylcellulose gel or glycerin solution. The results found an increase in new enamel to these damaged teeth (2).
Eggshell powder improves Face and skin health:
Who knew that eggshells could give your face a shiny appearance?
Take some eggshells after washing crush them into a powder. Combine this with a little whisked egg white and apply to your face as a pack. Applying this three times a week will give your skin a healthy glow because it functions as an exfoliant and hydrator.
Thus, esggshell powder is the most excellent natural product for sensitive girls to use against rashes, inflammations, and other irritations.
You can also toss the eggshells into a basin with apple cider vinegar after crushing them. Give this a five-day soak. Apply this combination to the affected areas of the skin with a cotton ball dipped in it, let it sit for a few minutes, then rinse to observe the effects in a few days.
Eggshell powder makes hair grow and glossy:
The amazing properties and ingredients in eggshell powder can help in hair growth and give them a glossy look. Here is how you can utilize it for your hair.
- Take 2 tablespoons of eggshell powder in a bowl.
- Add curd to form a thick smooth paste.
- Apply all over the hair, and wait for 20 minutes before washing it off. This will make your hair shiny and glossy.
Risk and Side effects of eating Eggshell Powder:
Despite various benefits, eggshell powder, like any other supplement, possesses side effects, especially if consumed in excessive amounts or without proper guidance.
Let’s look at some potential adverse effects:
Hypercalcemia:
Consuming too much calcium can lead to hypercalcemia, a condition characterized by elevated levels of calcium in the blood. Symptoms can include nausea and vomiting, kidney stones, bone pain and muscle weakness, confusion, disorientation, or dementia.
Kidney Problems:
Excessive calcium can increase the risk of kidney problems, including kidney stone formation and impaired kidney function, especially in individuals who already have kidney issues.
Digestive Issues:
Some individuals might experience gastrointestinal issues such as constipation, gas and bloating, and stomach cramps.
Drug Interactions:
Eggshell calcium powder can interact with certain medications, potentially impacting their effectiveness, e.g., blood pressure, Diuretics, and heart medications.
Allergic Reactions:
Similar to milk protein allergy, individuals with egg allergies need to be cautious, as traces of egg proteins might remain even after processing. Such allergies may result in skin irritations, respiratory issues, and even anaphylactic reactions in severe cases.
Calcification of Soft Tissues:
Excessive calcium consumption can lead to unwanted calcification in soft tissues, affecting blood vessels, lungs, heart, and kidneys.
Environmental Concerns:
Though not a direct side effect on the body, sourcing, and processing should be ethical and sustainable: Ensuring egg shells are sourced from healthy, ethically raised hens, minimizing waste and environmental impact during production.
Important recommendations for eggshell powder consumption:
The eggshell powder is considered safe when prepared correctly. There are some precautions that you need to keep in mind when consuming eggshells.
- Don’t attempt to swallow huge fragments of eggshell, as they might harm your esophagus and throat.
- To minimize the risk of food poisoning, boil eggshells before consuming them because they may contain Salmonella enteritidis, a risk to your health.
- Always seek professional medical advice before adding any supplement to your diet.
- Stick to recommended dosages to avoid excessive intake.
- Ensure the product is pure, well-processed, and free from contamination.
Conclusion:
Nature often provides solutions in the most unexpected places. Eggshell powder is a testament to this, turning waste into a wellness product. Eggshell provide various benefits, but precautions should be taken if you are considering consuming it. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement. Remember, the next time you crack an egg, think twice before discarding the shell.
