Eggshell secrets: From garden booster to skin soother
Eggs are an essential ingredient in many dishes and desserts, found in almost every kitchen. Although the most "valuable" part, in terms of culinary properties, is the inside of the eggs, the shells can also be used in various ways.
After peeling an egg, the shell typically ends up in organic waste—that is where it belongs and should be discarded. However, if the inside of the egg is not suitable for consumption, the egg white and yolk should be thrown into the container for mixed waste. Egg cartons, on the other hand, should go into the yellow bin for metals and plastics (if the packaging is styrofoam) or the blue bin for paper (in the case of clean and paper trays). Dirty packaging should be placed in the container for mixed waste.
Do you throw away eggshells? It's unnecessary
However, it is worth considering not throwing away eggshells, as their composition makes them versatile. Eggshells contain many nutrients, including calcium (essential for building bones), collagen, protein, and hyaluronic acid (which affects joint health). Equally important, they contain magnesium, phosphorus, copper, zinc, selenium, and silicon, which gives them antibacterial properties. So, how can you use eggshells?
Eggshell fertilizer
A popular way to use eggshells is to prepare fertilizer from them. A range of minerals benefits the soil and the plants growing in it. To prepare such fertilizer, wash the shells, dry them, then crush them finely (or blend them) and sprinkle them into the soil, mixing lightly.
Other uses for eggshells
Eggshells can also be consumed. Naturally, this is not very convenient in their "regular" form, but after proper preparation, the shells can be used to prepare… coffee. The shells should be thoroughly cleaned before grinding into a powder. Add half a teaspoon to a cup along with the coffee, and pour hot water over it—the drink will then become more aromatic.
The collagen, protein, and a range of other components in the shells also benefit the skin. A popular practice is applying poultices made from soaked shells to the skin. To do this, clean the shells and soak them in apple cider vinegar for two days. After two days, the shells will be soft enough to apply to red or irritated areas for quick relief.
