Common Uses For Potassium Nitrate

Potassium nitrate is made up of potassium, nitrogen and oxygen. The whitish compound, also known as saltpeter, is found on the surface of rocks in sheltered environments and in organic-rich soils. The common uses of potassium nitrate range from medical to horticultural, with most supplies coming from the brine lakes in California.

Gunpowder

While dynamite and TNT have made the use of potassium nitrate as an explosive nearly obsolete, the compound was often mixed with charcoal and sulfur to form gunpowder as early as 1000 AD. Modern firearms use nitrocellulose as a replacement for gunpowder, but the mixture is still used in hand grenade fuses, fireworks and artillery shell primers.

Fertilizer

Potassium nitrate can be added to soil in the form of liquid fertilizer to improve the health of fruit and vegetable plants. The compound provides a rich source of both potassium and nitrogen, two essential nutrients in plant growth.

Toothpaste

A toothpaste of sodium fluoride and potassium nitrate helps prevent tooth decay while treating tooth sensitivities to temperature, sweets, acids or touch. Applied topically, the paste strengthens tooth enamel to help fight cavities. If you have a kidney condition, take any prescription medications, are pregnant or breastfeeding or have allergies to any ingredients in sodium fluoride/potassium nitrate toothpaste, you should consult with your doctor before using.

Ulcer and Wound Treatment

Potassium nitrate may be prescribed for application on the skin to treat small wounds, ulcers or skin growths. The compound may cause chemical burns on the skin if not applied properly, so always use as directed by your doctor or pharmacist.

Food Preservative

Historically, potassium nitrate--as well as sodium nitrate--were used to preserve color in cured meats. When consumed, both types of nitrates form potentially cancer-causing agents called nitrosamines in the stomach. Consequently, the use of potassium nitrate in the curing industry has been greatly reduced. The most common uses include curing country hams and fermented sausages.