It may be that there’s no end to the list of things that baking soda, or sodium bicarbonate as it is also known, can do. It works as a leavening agent when baking, where it also reduces the acidity of ingredients such as cocoa, vinegar, citrus juice, honey and brown sugar. Baking soda also is a popular cleaning agent, for both your home and teeth. And it can help to relieve swollen feet after a long day of working, walking or hiking.

Fill a foot bath with cool water. Any container that is at least 10 or 12 inches deep and large enough to hold both feet will work. Keep the temperature of the water on the cool side; warm water may increase the inflammation.

Pour 1 cup baking soda into the cool water and stir well.

Place your feet into the foot bath while sitting on a chair or sofa. Soak your feet for 10 to 30 minutes, or however long feels soothing and reduces the inflammation.