Inhalation with soda for dry cough: steam procedures and use of a nebulizer. How to do inhalations in a nebulizer with soda Steam inhalations with soda

Soda inhalations are used primarily to treat paroxysmal dry coughs, but they also help with other inflammatory diseases of the nasopharynx and oral cavity. Inhalation of soda solution improves the condition of flu, colds,...

During inhalation, the nasopharyngeal mucosa is moistened and softened by heated, moist steam. An aqueous solution of soda exhibits weak alkaline properties and neutralizes the acidity of the mucous membrane, which affects the viability of pathogenic microorganisms.

Baking soda is an effective, safe mucolytic. Inhalations with soda relieve viscous secretions accumulated in the respiratory tract and treat coughs.

Already after one soda inhalation, an increase in the amount of sputum discharge is noted. When carrying out 2-4 inhalations with soda per day, bronchial patency is improved.

Baking soda thins mucus and improves its elimination, so it is used for both dry and wet coughs.

Baking soda is also used for inhalation because it softens and, in case of a wet cough, helps remove mucus from the respiratory tract.

The use of the device has no age-related contraindications; inhalation of soda through a nebulizer is allowed even for babies under one year old.

For young children, an indispensable device for inhalation is the babyhaler - a device that ensures precise dosing of the drug, deep penetration into the respiratory tract, and economical use of the drug.

Soda inhalation through a nebulizer

Using a nebulizer, inhalations are made with a self-prepared soda solution, as well as a pharmaceutical product for inhalation with buffer soda.

The instructions for using buffer soda for inhalation through a nebulizer indicate a 0.9% solution of table salt (saline) as a diluent. Using a diluent, bring the solution to the required volume.

The baking soda solution, prepared independently, is also adjusted to the required volume with saline solution. A soda solution for inhalation with a nebulizer is prepared at the rate of 1 teaspoon per liter of saline solution.

Features of inhalation

Children are especially closely monitored during the procedure. Steam inhalation with soda is prohibited for children under one year old, and for children under 7 years old it is done only with the permission of a pediatrician.

For children, the duration of inhalation is 3-5 minutes. When performing steam soda inhalation, the eyes are closed. It is not recommended to carry out the procedure too often; it is enough to do it in the morning and evening for 2-3 days in a row until the symptoms decrease.

The duration of the procedure is determined by how you feel; if your condition worsens, steam inhalation with soda is stopped immediately.

Preparation of the solution

Heat 1 liter of water to a temperature of 50 o C, add 1 teaspoon of baking soda, stir.

The solution with soda is allowed to cool to 40-45 o C, inhalation is done for 5-10 minutes or less, as your health allows.

The procedure is carried out 1.5-2 hours after the last meal. Up to 4 inhalations of soda are allowed per day.

Contraindications for steam inhalation

1. Increased body temperature;
2. diseases of the cardiovascular system;
3. lung diseases;
4. hypertension;
5. purulent processes of the nasopharynx, sinuses, respiratory tract.

Contraindications for soda inhalation include individual intolerance to this procedure, as well as allergies to additives.

Indications

Soda solutions are used for inhalation for coughs of all types - dry, wet, etc.

Inhalations are made with soda for acute and chronic diseases of the upper respiratory tract, recommended for chronic.

Soda inhalation through a nebulizer is used to treat cough in children at any age; this method has no age restrictions.

The healing properties of steam soda inhalations

Inhalation has a local effect, effectively relieves inflammation of the mucous membrane, spasms during hacking cough.

Under the influence of warm, moist steam, accumulations of mucus and sputum in the upper respiratory tract are softened.

With soda and garlic

Boil two glasses of water, then add finely chopped garlic, taken in the amount of 2-3 heads, boil for a few more seconds and remove from the stove.

Add a teaspoon of baking soda to the pan with the garlic broth, after which the liquid foams. Do inhalation, covered with a towel. Breathe alternately through the mouth and nose.

After inhalation with soda and garlic, you should not go outside. The best time is before bedtime; after the procedure, go to bed immediately.

Baking soda and sea salt

Take a teaspoon of baking soda and sea salt per liter of water. Inhalation with soda and salt helps with coughing, improving sputum discharge.

Sea salt reduces swelling of the nasal mucosa and eliminates nasal discharge.

Inhalations with soda and iodine

An inhalation solution is prepared by adding a teaspoon of baking soda and 1-2 drops of iodine alcohol tincture to a liter of water. Inhalation with iodine is done for 5-8 minutes.

This method of treatment helps with a runny nose, sinusitis, colds with nasal congestion, etc.

Complications after inhalation

If after inhalation the patient’s condition does not improve, the cough intensifies, the heartbeat quickens, or the patient becomes dizzy, these changes should not be ignored.

Call a doctor immediately in case of severe chest pain, loss of orientation, or suffocation.

Traditional medicine advises the use of soda in the treatment of respiratory diseases and colds in children and adults. The product has disinfectant and antimicrobial properties, helps remove bronchial secretions when coughing. To achieve effective results, it is very important to perform inhalations with soda correctly.

Soda is an effective and safe mucolytic. It thins out secretions, so it is used for bronchitis to eliminate wet and dry cough. In addition, the product neutralizes the acidity of the mucous membrane, inhibiting the activity of pathogenic bacteria. Inhalations with soda moisturize the nasopharyngeal mucosa and help get rid of secretions that accumulate due to coughing. The amount of secretion released increases after the 1st session. After 2-4 procedures, bronchial patency improves significantly.

Such inhalations soften the dryness of a cough during bronchitis, and improve the removal of sputum when it is wet. Indications for procedures:

• cold
• cough of any kind (dry, wet, allergic)
• bronchitis
• sinusitis
• angina
• chronic tonsillitis
• laryngitis

To treat a runny nose, in addition to soda, the solution includes iodine, sea salt, aromatic oil of mint or fir. The procedures dry out the nasal cavity, help remove inflammation of the mucous membrane, and eliminate swelling.

Inhalations with soda will help pregnant women get rid of colds and bronchitis without consequences. Such treatment sessions are the safest. If in doubt, the soda solution can be replaced with slightly alkaline mineral water (Essentuki, Borjomi).

Inhalations with soda can be done using 2 methods: using a nebulizer or a kettle with hot water:

• To make the solution, you will need 1 liter of water and 1 table. l. soda
• Heat water to 50 °C, add soda and cool slightly. For children under one year of age, the temperature of the solution should not be higher than 30 ºС
• If you are using a kettle, you will also need a funnel made of thick paper
• Insert a funnel into the spout of the kettle and lean over it. Cover yourself with a blanket and close your eyes
• You should breathe like this: alternately take 2 breaths through your mouth, exhale through your nose, and vice versa

The duration of the procedure for adults is 8-10 minutes, for children – 3-5 minutes. Inhalations should be done 3-4 days, in the morning and before bedtime. They need to be performed 1.5 hours after eating. After inhalation, you must refrain from talking and eating for 1 hour.

Procedures cannot be performed at temperatures above 37.5 ºС. Inhalations with soda are contraindicated for babies less than a year old. For children under 7 years of age, they can be done after consultation with a pediatrician.

Other contraindications:

• elevated blood pressure
• lung diseases
• diseases of the cardiovascular system
• diseases of the nasopharynx and respiratory tract, accompanied by purulent discharge
• allergic reactions to the components of the solution

Under no circumstances should you breathe over boiling water, as you can burn the mucous membrane. If during inhalation your health worsens (dizziness appears, heart rate increases), the procedure should be stopped immediately.

Using a nebulizer

Using a nebulizer, procedures are performed with a solution made at home, as well as with a special Soda Buffer product, which is sold in pharmacies. Both solutions are brought to the required volume with saline solution (0.9% salt solution). If the solution is prepared at home, you need to take 1 teaspoon. l. soda per 1 liter of saline solution.

To improve the discharge of bronchitis discharge, you should alternate between soda inhalations and inhalations with eucalyptus oil. Add 10 drops of essential oil to 1 liter of saline solution. If the device model is not designed for the use of essential oils, you should take the herbal medicine “Eucalyptus”, based on the calculation of 15 drops. for 200 ml of saline solution.

Cough treatment

• Inhalations with iodine

For bronchitis, inhalations with iodine will be effective. For 1 liter of water you will need 1 table. l. soda and iodine (2 drops). The duration of the procedure is 8 minutes, it is done 3 times. in a day.

• With garlic

To cure a cough due to bronchitis, inhalations with garlic and soda will help. Take 6 cloves of garlic, peel and finely chop. Pour 1 liter of water over the garlic and bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes. Cool slightly, add soda (1 tablespoon) and stir.

• Inhalations with herbal decoctions

For dry cough, inhalations with herbal decoctions and soda are recommended. You can take coltsfoot, calendula, thyme, eucalyptus, chamomile, sage. To prepare the decoction, pour 1 table. l. raw materials 1 liter of hot water, boil for 5 minutes and cool slightly. Then strain the broth and add 1 tablespoon. l. soda

Note. When using a nebulizer, herbal infusions cannot be used.

Treatment of a runny nose

If you need to cure a runny nose, for inhalation you will need 1 liter of water, 5 table. l. soda You can add iodine (2 drops) to the solution. To soften the mucous membrane, include aromatic oil (fir, eucalyptus, juniper, mint) in the solution.

• Sea salt

For a runny nose or dry cough, you can make a soda solution with sea salt. Take 1 teaspoon for 1 liter of water. l. soda and sea salt. The procedure will eliminate nasal discharge and swelling.

Before inhalation, you should consult a doctor. As a rule, such procedures are prescribed as additional treatment.

Inhalation helps with cough, runny nose, asthma and many other diseases. The use of purchased and homemade soda solutions in a nebulizer shows good results. With its help, the smallest particles of useful substances enter directly into the respiratory tract.

Inhalation is physiotherapy, during which the patient inhales vapors with the active substance. This method helps deliver useful elements immediately to the right place. They have a positive effect on all organs and surfaces with which they interact - the upper respiratory tract, the mucous membrane of the nasopharynx and the lungs.

Traditionally, it is necessary to breathe vapors over a container into which a specially prepared hot solution is poured. Not so long ago, inhalers were invented for this purpose, which can independently heat the solution to the required temperature.

This method of treatment is unsafe, as there is a risk of burning the mucous membrane or facial skin. This makes inhalation a virtually inaccessible procedure for young children.

Today they produce a special device - a nebulizer, which helps to safely treat a number of acute and chronic diseases at home.

Benefits of a nebulizer

A nebulizer is an inhaler with great capabilities.

1. Small particles of the drug, 1–10 microns in size, are delivered into the bronchi using an air jet, reaching the alveoli. When breathing they are distributed throughout all parts of the respiratory system.
2. The nebulizer is easy to use at home, since it has a simple and understandable design.
3. The device works purposefully, bypassing the gastrointestinal tract and circulatory system, which prevents the occurrence of side effects.
4. It is enough to pour the required dose of medicine, and it will be apply yourself throughout the entire procedure.
5. There is no need to take a strong breath, since the substance enters the respiratory tract even with normal breathing rhythm.

The benefits of soda for inhalation

Soda is natural mucolytic, which can effectively dilute secretions.

Once on the mucous membrane, the substance neutralizes the acidic environment, thereby stopping the growth and reproduction of pathogenic microorganisms.

Because of this, cough soda inhalations are often used.

Bicarbonate of soda shows itself well in the treatment of dry cough.

And when wet, it facilitates the process of removing phlegm.

The beneficial effects of soda are due to the following properties:

• elimination of edema;
• relieving inflammation;
• removal of mucous formations from the nasopharynx;
• acceleration of the healing process;
• removal of mucus from the respiratory system.

Soda inhalation has an antiseptic and antimicrobial effect. It soothes and moisturizes the irritated walls of the nasopharynx, so it is good for a runny nose.

The effect will be noticeable after the first use. The amount of sputum produced will increase markedly.

Indications

Soda inhalations are carried out in the presence of the following diseases and symptoms:

• all types of cough;
• chronic tonsillitis;
• angina;
• otitis;
• sinusitis;
• upper respiratory tract diseases;
• cold;
• laryngitis.

The procedure is sometimes used to treat early stage lung cancer. Moreover, it is prescribed and fully supervised by a doctor.

Contraindications

It is prohibited to inhale with soda in a nebulizer if you have the following diseases:

• individual intolerance to any component of the mixture;
• predisposition to frequent nosebleeds;
• hypertension;
• cardiovascular pathologies;
• purulent diseases of the respiratory system;
• heart attack;
• stroke;
• arrhythmia;
• tachycardia;
• spontaneous pneumothorax.

In children under 7 years of age, the appropriateness of using this treatment method is determined by the doctor on an individual basis. The same requirement applies to nursing and pregnant women.

Rules for using a nebulizer

1. Procedures are carried out only after consultation with a doctor.
2. You should not take expectorants before the session.
3. The expiration date of all components is strictly checked.
4. You cannot talk or strain your vocal cords for 30 minutes after the procedure.
5. You need to stay at home for 2–4 hours after inhalation.
6. The last meal before the session should be at least 2 hours ago.

Soda inhalations in a nebulizer for adults

Inhalations in a nebulizer can be carried out with a self-prepared product.

To prepare at home you will need:

• saline solution (0.9%) - 1 l;
• baking soda - 1 tsp.

Powder mix thoroughly so as not to cause clogging of the nebulizer channels. It must be added to the device in accordance with the dosage and inhaled.

You can buy a ready-made drug at the pharmacy - Buffer Soda. One milliliter of the product contains 42 mg of active substance. It is convenient to use, since it contains a certain dosage of the product.

For an adult, 5–10 ml of product is enough for one session.

• A tube with a mask is connected to the device. The device is connected to electricity, and the mask is pressed to the lower part of the face.
• If it is necessary for the drug to enter maxillary sinus and nasopharynx, then it is inhaled through the nose.
• If the source of the disease is in the lungs, then the steam must enter through the mouth. You need to pull it in, hold it inside for 2-3 seconds and exhale.
• All this is done smoothly, without sudden jerks.
• During inhalation you can't talk.

Soda inhalations in a nebulizer for children

Procedures for children are done twice a day. The latter must be carried out no later than 19:00 evenings.

The child is under supervision at all times.

You need to breathe in the same way as the previous method.

The same solutions are used that are used for adults, but in a lower dosage:

• if the child is 5–10 years old, sessions are performed with 3 ml of solution;
• Children 10–15 years old are recommended to take a dose of 5 ml.

The duration of interaction with steam varies between 3–5 minutes. The course of treatment begins with less time.

Important . When the patient's condition improves, treatment in this way is stopped so as not to dry out the larynx and nasal mucosa.

If necessary, the doctor may prescribe a dilution of buffer soda with saline solution in a 1:1 ratio.

What other solutions are used for inhalation in a nebulizer?

Pharmacies sell many ready-made aerosols for use in a nebulizer. Among them are:

• mucolytics - Lazolvan, Ambrobene, ACC Inject, Fluimucil;
• bronchodilators - Berodual, Atrovent, Salbutamol.

The first group of drugs is used to soften sputum and remove it from the body, and the second - for lung diseases or asthma.

Lazolvan and Ambrobene diluted in equal proportions with saline, and ACC and Fluimucil are filled into the nebulizer in their pure form.

Bronchodilators are also mixed with saline.

Medicines can only be used after a doctor's prescription.

Inhalation with soda is a fairly old way to combat coughs and runny noses, which has become increasingly popular in recent years.

And it’s not surprising, because it’s a cheap product. can quickly relieve the condition, both for diseases of a viral nature and bacterial.

Soda or sodium bicarbonate is firmly established in the kitchen of every housewife, but this simple and cheap product can not only improve the taste of baked goods, but also help a person cope with a cough and runny nose.

What are the benefits of soda inhalation: types and methods of therapy

And with a wet cough or runny nose, it helps to liquefy and facilitate the removal of phlegm and snot.

In addition, sodium bicarbonate is an alkali, so it increases the acidity of the environment. This creates unfavorable conditions for most pathogenic microorganisms, so they stop reproducing or even die.

In how to make inhalation with soda at home, modern nebulizers, steam inhalers, or a good old saucepan and towel or other device can come to the rescue.

Therefore, a distinction is made between steam procedures and inhalation of a suspension of fine particles of a solution produced by a nebulizer.

Inhalation with baking soda: indications for use

Sodium bicarbonate has anti-inflammatory, bactericidal and mucolytic properties, so it can be used for:

This is a disease accompanied by inflammation of the mucous membranes of the paranasal sinuses. Chronic tonsillitis. This is an inflammatory process affecting the pharyngeal and palatine tonsils. Laryngitis, tracheitis or laryngotracheitis. This is the name for inflammation of the mucous membranes of the larynx and trachea, respectively, which is mainly manifested by an obsessive dry cough. With laryngitis, as with tracheitis, hoarseness is often present. Sore throat. This is an acute bacterial infection that causes a grayish-white coating on the pharyngeal tonsils and a severe sore throat. Bronchitis. This is an inflammation of the bronchial mucosa. With bronchitis, the most pronounced symptom is a severe cough. Rhinitis of various etiologies. When you have a runny nose, especially with sticky, thick snot, sodium bicarbonate will thin the mucus and make nasal breathing easier.

Therefore, there is no doubt whether inhalation can be done for dry, wet, allergic cough, sore throat and runny nose of any nature.

There is an opinion that they can alleviate the condition even with lung cancer (with metastases). But in this case, they only reduce the number and intensity of coughing attacks.

Attention

Cancer treatment is always carried out by oncologists according to individually designed schemes. Any attempts at self-medication can only worsen the condition, so they should only be undertaken with the permission of the attending physician.

Steam inhalation: description of the procedure

The manipulation is carried out using a steam inhaler or a container with a hot solution, such as a saucepan, kettle, etc.

If in the first case everything is clear, then inhalation of steam and soda over a saucepan should be carried out while covering your head with a towel. But it’s more convenient and safer to use a kettle for this purpose. Source: website

A cone or tube, pre-rolled from thick paper, is inserted into the spout of the kettle. It is placed against the face so that the nose and mouth are closed at the same time if there are signs of damage to both the upper and lower respiratory tract.

If the patient only has a cough or sore throat, then the end of the rolled up tube is inserted into the mouth.

To prepare a soda solution for cough inhalation, it is important to know how much soda to put in an adult and a child.

1. So, for adult patients, 200 ml of water requires no more than ½ teaspoon or tablespoon per liter of liquid.
2. For children under 5 years old, 1 tsp per liter of water is enough. To treat rhinitis, the ratio will be different: take 5 tablespoons of powder per liter of water.

In order for the procedure to bring only benefits, you must follow a few simple rules:

You can breathe over soda no earlier than than 90 minutes after the last meal.

Before starting the manipulation, you should remove from the neck, all accessories and clothing that restrict breathing, such as a tie, tight-fitting jewelry, etc.

Under no circumstances should you use boiling water. as this can cause burns to the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract. The ideal solution temperature is 55 °C for adults and 30 °C for children.

The duration of one session is approximately 8 minutes for adults, and 3–5 minutes for children. They are carried out up to 2 times a day.

After the procedure you need at least an hour refrain from going outside, drinking and eating, and avoid drafts. It is also advisable not to talk at this time.

Children under one year old are not treated with steam, because this can cause burns. To help your baby, it is better to choose nebulizers.

Inhalations with soda in a nebulizer: technique

Nebulizers are modern devices that allow you to uniformly irrigate the surface of the mucous membranes of various parts of the respiratory tract. Preparing a soda solution for a nebulizer consists of diluting a teaspoon of powder in 1 liter of saline solution.

For one session, adults take 4 ml of the prepared product; how much soda children need is calculated based on the child’s age. But it is not the proportions of preparation of the product that are changed, but the volume used for manipulation. So, for children of the first years of life, 1 ml is enough, for children over 4 years old - 2 ml, etc.

However, it can be replaced. In this case, you can be completely sure that the dosage of the medicine has not been exceeded. Therefore, it is better to choose it for children. For one procedure, take 1 ml of medication and 3 ml of saline solution.

When talking about how to properly inhale with soda, you need to consider the purpose for which they are carried out.

So, you should use nasal attachments, and when dealing with pathologies of the throat and lower respiratory tract, choose a mouthpiece.

When treating young children, a mask is always used that covers the mouth and nose at the same time.

Inhalation with soda for dry cough

This cough is typical for:

• tracheitis;
• laryngitis;
• bronchitis;
• pneumonia;
• bronchial asthma, etc.

Soda for cough can be used independently from the first days of the illness, but provided there is no fever. We will discuss below whether it is possible to carry out inhalations at a temperature.

Usually, it takes 2-3 days for the condition to improve; if during this time there are no positive changes, you should definitely consult a doctor, as pneumonia may develop. In such cases, treatment is always comprehensive and necessarily includes antibiotics and cough medications.

Additional folk recipes

To give the product additional properties, new ingredients are added to it. Their choice is determined by the characteristics of the existing disease, its course and the purpose of the procedures.

In most cases, for treatment, a basic solution of baking soda is initially prepared, the recipe for which is given above, and only then other substances are introduced into it.

With soda and iodine

Iodine is a strong antiseptic, so it is recommended for use against bacterial infections. To provide a therapeutic effect, it is enough to add a couple of drops of iodine to 1 liter of base solution.

With salt and soda

For nasal congestion and to facilitate the removal of viscous sputum, you can prepare a soda solution with salt: ½ tsp per glass of water is required. sodium chloride and bicarbonate.

Therefore, it extremely rarely provokes the appearance of signs of excessive salt content in the solutions used, such as a burning sensation, discomfort, etc.

With potatoes and soda

Boil the potatoes and drain the water. Sprinkle whole tubers or mashed into puree with 1 pinch of soda. The patient bends over the pan with the mixture and covers his head with a towel or blanket. Session duration is 5–10 minutes.

With garlic and soda

Chop 3 heads of garlic, add 2 cups of boiling water, bring to a boil and boil for 5 minutes. Add soda in an age-appropriate dose to the slightly cooled product.

With Validol and soda

The method is quite controversial, although it is believed that it helps restore a hoarse voice. Its essence is to dissolve 4 Validol tablets in 0.5 liters of hot water and ½ tsp. soda

With eucalyptus oil

Many essential oils have powerful antiseptic and antiviral properties, some of the most popular are eucalyptus, fir and tea tree oils.

They not only promote a speedy recovery from a cold, but also quickly normalize nasal breathing, that is, their effect is comparable to an asterisk.


To carry out inhalation, add no more than 3 drops of the selected oil to the initial solution. Such procedures are indicated for acute respiratory infections, and also help well with sinusitis.

With infusions of medicinal herbs

To quickly eliminate inflammation and ease expectoration, it is often recommended to do procedures with chamomile and sage. Herbs take 1 tbsp. l. and pour a glass of boiling water. After letting the product brew, soda is added to it in an age-appropriate dosage.

Contraindications

Any inhalations are contraindicated at body temperatures above 37.5 °C. You should also not carry them out when:

• hypersensitivity to the components of the mixture;
• the presence of pus in the sputum;
• tuberculosis;
• increased fragility of blood vessels, which can manifest as frequent nosebleeds;
• hypertension;
• serious pathologies of the cardiovascular system.

The manipulation should be stopped immediately if the slightest disturbance in breathing occurs, for example, shortness of breath.

Soda inhalations during pregnancy: is it possible to do?

For expectant mothers, inhalation therapy, in particular with alkaline solutions, for acute respiratory infections, sinusitis and other inflammatory diseases of the respiratory system can be a real salvation, since most modern drugs cannot be used by pregnant women.

This substance is of natural origin and does not contain any harmful impurities, so it can significantly alleviate the condition of the patient herself and speed up the onset of recovery. However, it is still better to consult a doctor.

Baking soda can be considered a universal remedy. It is popular in everyday life and cooking as well as in medicine. All thanks to its ability to have a unique healing and cleansing effect on the human body. All elements that form this substance are completely safe. That is why inhalations with soda are so popular today.

Description of the substance

Sodium carbonate (Na 2 CO 3) is a colorless substance consisting of atoms that are arranged in a certain order, which is typical for crystals. High degree of hygroscopicity, as well as the ability to melt at 858 degrees. Speaking of baking soda or drinking soda, it is known as sodium bicarbonate.

Today, baking soda is known to us in the form of a fine powdery substance, white, odorless, easily soluble in water.

History of discovery

The discovery of soda occurred approximately 1500-2000 BC. Then its extraction was carried out from soda lakes and in the form of the minerals thermonatrite, natron, trona.

The discovery and production of soda, thanks to the evaporation of water, was confirmed by the records of the Roman physician Dioscorides Pedanius on medicinal substances. Until the 18th century, alchemists and doctors perceived soda as a substance that produced a specific hissing and gas when combined with acetic and sulfuric acids. Today, it is obvious to everyone that as a result of a chemical reaction, carbon dioxide gas is released, which provokes a specific hissing sound.

Even the contemporaries of Dioscorides Pedania knew nothing about the composition of soda, since carbon dioxide was discovered only 600 years later by the Dutch chemist Jan van Helmont, who called the discovery forest gas.

Attempts to extract

Only in the 18th century did they learn to extract soda artificially, determining the composition in its pure form. Chemist Henri Louis Duhamel de Monceau, using the crystallization method, was able to isolate soda in its pure form in 1736, and also identified the element “sodium” in its composition. And in 1737, Duhamel, together with Andreas Sigismund Marggraf, proved that potassium carbonate and soda are different.

The scientist also tried to produce soda artificially by acting on sodium sulfate with acetic acid, but, unfortunately, Duhamel did not assume that sulfuric acid could not be replaced by acetic acid from salts, since the latter is a weak substance.

And for example, Marggraf, trying to artificially produce soda, heated coal combined with sodium nitrate, resulting in an outbreak. Thanks to such an attempt, the scientist burned his face and hands, not suspecting that such a combination of substances made it possible to obtain gunpowder.

But, if we talk about the industrial production of soda, then the discovery belongs to Russia. The discovery occurred in 1764 in Taltsinsk at the glass factory of the chemist Eric Gustav Laxman, who established that combining charcoal with natural sodium sulfate leads to the production of soda. By the way, as a result of this reaction a pair of gaseous substances is formed: carbon dioxide and sulfur dioxide. Despite the fact that the scientist managed to obtain soda, his method did not gain further fame and active use; rather, on the contrary, it was forgotten.

The scientist Lebman was able to produce soda by fusing sodium sulfate, calcium carbonate and charcoal. Thanks to coal, sodium sulfate was reduced, and after complete combustion of coal and carbon monoxide, the cooled mixture was treated with water. Thus, calcium sulfide remained in the precipitate, and sodium carbonate went into solution.

It was this technology that in 1789 Lebman offered to his patient - the Duke, who signed an agreement and allocated 200 thousand silver livres for the construction of the factory - "Franciade - Lebman Soda".

Unfortunately, during the French Revolution, the Duke was executed, his property was confiscated, and the plant and patent became the property of the state. A few years later, the plant was finally returned to Lebman, but it was ruined and required huge financing in order to restore production.

And although the scientist was no longer able to resume the production process, his technology became famous in Europe.

Chemical engineer Ernest Solvay is a fateful competitor. He discovered a new method for producing soda - ammonia. Its main advantages are economical production, better quality soda, and minimal damage to the environment. Unable to withstand such competition, Lebman factories began to close.

Today, more than 200 million tons of soda are produced annually. The substance has found its use in many areas: the production of detergents, glassmaking, aluminum production, petroleum refining and pulp and paper production, and also as a source of carbon dioxide for baked goods, carbonated drinks and even fire extinguishers. And the medical scope of soda requires separate consideration.

Properties of baking soda

It is soda that helps create the necessary alkaline environment. In this regard, sodium carbonate is used for the purpose of prevention and therapy for various diseases:

• oncology;
• diseases of the gastrointestinal tract;
• stones in the kidneys, urinary and gall bladders;
• deposits in joints;
• conjunctivitis;
• fungal infection of the hands and feet;
• bronchopulmonary diseases.

In this case, soda can be used both internally and externally, making mushy solutions. I would also like to note a very effective procedure - inhalation with soda.

Sodium carbonate is one of the proven, accessible and cheap analogues of medications during the period of colds. If the first symptoms are already obvious - runny nose, cough, but there is no fever, then you should not immediately reach for medications. Do several home inhalations with soda. Relief will come immediately after the first procedure.

The healing effect of soda

By inhaling vapors during inhalation with soda, microorganisms with medicinal substances enter the body. They are able to favorably envelop the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract, clearing the maxillary sinuses, reducing swelling and dryness of the nasopharynx and promoting the removal of phlegm. Inhalations with soda for coughs are very effective. The alkaline effect of sodium carbonate reduces acidity in the human body, leading to the death of viruses and bacteria.

How to do inhalations with soda

The procedure should be carried out an hour before eating, or two hours after eating. The duration is no more than 10 minutes. In order to carry out inhalation with soda at home, you will need:

The water is heated. It is worth paying attention that the water temperature should not be higher than 60 degrees, since high temperature destroys all the beneficial properties of soda, and you can burn the mucous membrane when inhaling. Next, dissolve soda in the container in a 1:1 ratio (add 1 tablespoon of baking soda per liter of boiled water). Positioned over the pan, cover your head with a towel.

When treating the nasopharynx, the vapors should be inhaled through the nose, slowly and calmly. If you are treating a cough, then you need to inhale the vapors through your mouth, hold the air for a few seconds, then exhale calmly. Don't swallow air too deeply.

After inhalation with soda, you must not go outside for at least an hour. Bed rest will be appropriate. At the same time, you should refrain from talking so as not to overstrain your vocal cords.

You can also do inhalations with soda for children, but only under the careful supervision of adults! The procedure time is reduced to 5 minutes.

Inhalations using a device

Inhalations with soda in a nebulizer will be much easier. The procedure is carried out with a special soda solution “Buffer Soda”, which is diluted with saline solution. Very important: use the solution for inhalation strictly according to the instructions.

The mechanism of inhalation using a neublyzer is similar to the standard algorithm: carried out one hour before meals, or two hours after the last meal; bed rest; voice rest.

The advantage of hardware inhalation with soda is the ability to add extracts of chamomile, aminophylline, sage and other medicinal plants even at elevated patient body temperatures. Also, the use of a nebulizer is not prohibited for infants.

Contraindications

Inhalations with soda for coughing at home are completely safe, but there are still some warnings and they should be taken into account before starting therapy:

• individual intolerance to the substance (allergic reaction);
• the patient's temperature is above 37 degrees;
• predisposition to nosebleeds;
• signs of pus in the sputum.

During pregnancy, the procedure should be carried out with extreme caution, as it may provoke the gag reflex. It is also worth completely eliminating iodine.

Solutions for inhalation

Inhalations with soda are a proven classic! For various inflammations, it is recommended to carry out steam inhalations by mixing soda with other medicinal substances, for example:

You can also add various essential oils, which will have a softening and moisturizing effect on the mucous membranes.