Uses of Cornstarch

 

 

Cornstarch is an unusual ingredient to have in the kitchen. No matter what amount you purchase, you’ll always be left with a lot of it. Cornstarch is made from the “starchy” portion of corn kernels, scientifically known as the endosperm. This ingredient is commonly known in the kitchen as a thickening agent for gravies, sauces, soups, marinades and other dishes.

 

But the greatest thing about cornstarch is that its uses stretch further than the kitchen. You can actually use it for many different things, from beauty rituals to natural remedies. Check out the different uses for cornstarch.

 

To relieve bug bites

When you and your family go swimming or spend some time in the garden, it’s very common to be prey to mosquitoes and other types of bugs. You might not know it, but bug bites can feel ten times more itchy and irritating when the skin is damp. Cornstarch is amazing at drying skin around the bug bite, which reduces the itching dramatically. Simply mix the cornstarch with a few drops of water and apply the paste to the bug bite until it naturally dries out.

 

To prevent athlete’s foot

Athlete’s foot is a common skin problem in which one of three types of fungi grows on the surface (Trichophyton rubrum, Trichophyton mentagrophytes, and Epidermophyton floccosum). This condition happens when feet are exposed regularly to moisture such as the skin’s own sweat. You can prevent all of this moisture by sprinkling some cornstarch directly inside your shoes or even on your socks to soak up the moisture.

 

The perfect milk bath

Milk baths are not only ultra relaxing, they have been used for thousands of years to soothe skin and nurture it deeply. A milk bath is not pure milk, one of its main ingredients is actually cornstarch. Some people with sensitive skin find that milk baths are very effective to soothe itching while having a luxurious beauty experience.

 

Natural dry shampoo

Stop spending hundreds of dollars in fancy dry shampoo, you already have it in your pantry! Cornstarch can be used as a natural dry shampoo, all you have to do is sprinkle a small amount directly to your roots and gently brush it through the ends of it. If you want to make a clean application you can use a makeup brush, but we advise those with dark hair to abstain from it since it will contrast a lot.

 

Itch relief

If you're experiencing itchiness or irritation due to sunburn, simply mix cornstarch with a few drops of water and apply the paste to your skin, letting it dry completely. After this, rinse with lukewarm water. If you suffer from itchiness from a new piece of clothing, you can also sprinkle a bit of cornstarch on the inside before putting it on.

 

DIY deodorant

If you’re into doing your own personal hygiene products, this is for you. You can make your own deodorant by mixing coconut oil, cornstarch and a bit of baking soda, as well as your favorite essential oil for added smell. The moisture absorbing properties of cornstarch help decrease sweat and odor in the skin.

 

Which of these uses will you try first?