Hidden benefits of eggshells: From fertilizer to skincare
Eggs are a staple ingredient in many dishes and desserts, commonly found in kitchens everywhere. While the inside of the egg is most prized for its culinary properties, the shells can also be utilised in various ways.
After peeling an egg, the shell typically ends up in food waste, which is indeed appropriate. However, if the inside of the egg is found to be unfit for consumption, the egg white and yolk should be discarded in the general waste bin. Egg cartons, meanwhile, should be placed in the recycling bin for plastics and metals if they are made from styrofoam, or in the paper recycling bin if they are clean paper trays. Dirty packaging should go in the general waste bin.
Do you throw away eggshells? It's unnecessary
However, it is worth considering not discarding eggshells, as they have a multitude of uses. This is thanks to their composition. Eggshells are rich in nutrients, including calcium (essential for building bones), collagen, protein, and hyaluronic acid (important for joint health). Notably, eggshells also contain magnesium, phosphorus, copper, zinc, selenium, and silicon, which give them antibacterial properties. So, how can you make use of eggshells?
Eggshell fertilizer
One popular way to use eggshells is to make fertilizer. The array of minerals positively impacts the soil and the plants growing in it. To prepare such a fertilizer, you should wash the shells, dry them, crush them finely (or blend them), and then sprinkle them into the soil, mixing lightly.
Other uses for eggshells
Eggshells can also be consumed. Although naturally, in their "regular" form, this is not very comfortable, after proper preparation, the shells can be used to prepare coffee. The shells should be thoroughly cleaned before grinding into a powder. Add about 2.5 grams (half a teaspoon) to a cup along with the coffee, and pour over—the drink will then become more aromatic.
The collagen, protein, and various other components in the shells also benefit the skin. A popular practice is applying poultices from soaked shells to the skin. To do this, clean the shells and soak them in apple cider vinegar for two days. The shells will be soft after two days of waiting. Simply apply them to red or irritated areas for quick relief.
