That little box of baking soda you keep in the back of the fridge to reduce odors, and occasionally for baking may be an important part of your good health.

Baking soda is also known by its chemical name sodium bicarbonate. The compound has a long history of use for cleaning, eliminating odors, and putting out fires.

How Products Are Made explains it was first used in America during colonial times and was produced in the United States as early as 1846. It is made from soda ash. It is heavier than air, releases carbon dioxide when heated, and can be an effective abrasive for use in a variety of manufacturing settings.

The properties of baking soda also make it appealing as a cure for certain health problems.

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Here are five health benefits of baking soda:

1. To calm your tummy.

WebMD points to baking soda as an effective reducer of stomach acid. It can be used as an effective quick antacid. http://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-11325/sodium-bicarbonate-oral/details#uses

2. To kick kidney stones.

Consuming baking soda ban make your urine more acidic. According to WebMD, acidic urine prevents the formation of kidney stones.

3. To fight bacteria.

Scientific studies have shown that baking soda has some antibacterial properties. It can be effective in promoting good oral health.

4. As a cancer fighter.

Healthy and Natural World News reports baking soda mixed with lemon can make a strongly acidic combination which can help a body fight cancer. A 2013 study in the journal Cancer Research showed an intake of baking soda was able to raise the pH of tumors and stop the growth of tumors.

5. As a stinging cure.

The neutralizing effect of baking soda can help treat skin problems including stings. Bee and wasp stings can be treated with a paste of water or vinegar and baking soda. The combination has the effect of easing the pain.

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