The eggshell, despite its fragile material, is very strong for different types of use, from insecticides against some insects, to crafts in different ways. We separate some ways for you to reuse it:
Fertilizer
Eggshells in contact with the earth make it possible to avoid apical rot, a problem found mainly in fruit-bearing plants. Its source of calcium, magnesium and potassium helps in the growth and development of plants. It is recommended to use the shells in the form of flour. They should be washed and dried in the shade, as contact with the sun eliminates their nitrogen source. But watch out! Some plants may not react well to the use of bark, because of the slight alkalinization of the soil, such as azaleas, gardenias, carnivorous plants, etc.
Pest control
To keep slugs and caterpillars away from your plants, place eggshells in the pots. The calcium in the egg shell will quickly change the pH (acidity index) of the soil, making it less acidic and keeping these bugs away. This way, you also avoid the use of chemical pesticides.
candle making
To make homemade candles, you will need eggshells, paraffin (can be from burned-out candles) and 20cm of wick. How to do it: Break the egg in half. Wash the shell and dry it. Then, make an opening in the center of the shell, to later insert the wick, and place the shell in the empty egg box, in order to facilitate when placing the paraffin.
Less acid coffee
If you add some crushed eggshells (flour-like) to the coffee grounds before straining, you can reduce the bitterness of the coffee. The alkaline pH present in the egg neutralizes the substances that leave the acidity – the chlorogenic acid lactones and the phenyl indane.
sand pans
Simply place the crushed shells in normal dishwashing sponges and use with your preferred detergent. Great for making pans shiny, removing grease and those stains left by the fire.
plant seedlings
When cracking the egg try to keep one side whole with just over half and you'll have great little pots to plant seeds. Throw in soil and the seed you want and that's it! When the plant grows, you can plant it with its own bark right in the ground.
drain cleaner
If your sink drain has clogged, you can throw in some crushed eggshell, which helps clear the way along the pipes. It is also recommended to put eggshells once a week in the filter of your sink.
Relief for bites
Some people suffer from insect sting allergies. For pain relief, itching and redness, follow this natural recipe: wash, dry and crush the eggshell and soak it for 2 days in a small bottle of apple cider vinegar. Pass over the irritated surface for a few days.
Handicraft
Eggshells can be used in many ways for crafts. If crushed, they can form a beautiful mosaic in the making of picture frames, lamps, boxes, trays and much more. You will only need broken eggshells, liquid glue and paint (if you wish). Choose the surface you want to decorate and get to work!
In addition, eggshell powder can be added in the preparation of pasta such as cakes, breads and pies, as its minerals enrich food sources of protein.
- Written by Carolina Peixoto from Team Eu Sem Fronteiras.
