The use of potato starch in folk medicine and in everyday life

In every housewife's house, somewhere on a distant shelf there will almost certainly be starch. With its help, they shape collars, refresh bed linen, cook delicious jelly and prepare airy dough. The use of starch is extremely diverse - “dry shampoos” for animals, natural antiperspirants and traditional medicine are prepared on its basis.

Let's take a closer look at this compound, which is so abundant in potatoes and jelly, and find out its benefits and harms for humans and the scope of its application.

Potato starch, characteristics and description

Potato starch belongs to the group of polysaccharides - high-molecular carbohydrates that perform structural and many other functions in living organisms. In particular, it is an energy accumulator from which the body takes the necessary sugars for functioning. Due to the properties of the polymer, sugar is converted from it gradually, as needed.

Starch is sold and stored in the form of free-flowing powder. It can be bright white, white-gray, sometimes yellowish - depending on the variety and amount of impurities. It has no smell or taste.

When in contact with hot water, the polymer forms a viscous bulk mass. When combined with cold water, the product becomes insoluble and forms a paste.

The shelf life of a food product is indicated on the packaging and on average ranges from 2 to 5 years from the date of production without loss of properties.The powder is stored in a dry, cool place protected from sunlight. If stored improperly, the shelf life of starch is reduced.

Starch is found in many foods in its natural form (for example, potatoes and grains) and as a food additive (in sauces, confectionery). The breakdown of this compound begins in the human mouth, so starch-containing foods require thorough chewing. In combination with other foods other than vegetables and fruits, as well as with a deficiency of vitamin B, its absorption becomes difficult.

The food additive is masked by codes E1400–E1405. If the digital value begins with the numbers 14, this means that this is a modified form. Such a product is less useful for humans, but also has nothing to do with genetic experiments and “chemistry”. Simply, with the help of certain technologies, the starch was brought to the desired state (more crumbly, etc.).

The recommended daily intake of the product is 50 g (1 tbsp. or 2 tsp.).

Why do potatoes have a lot of starch? This is the natural property of this vegetable. In different varieties, its content can be increased or decreased. Basically, its concentration in tubers is about 70% of all dry matter.

For reference. Besides potatoes, the main sources of starch are corn and rice.

Starch varieties

Regardless of the type and grade, starch should not contain any foreign odors or tastes. The mechanical part of processing potatoes into starch is regulated by a system of national state quality standards. Variety is determined by the degree of purification, graininess and acidity.

According to GOST, starch is divided into 4 grades:

1. Extra. Characterized by crystalline luster.The graininess of the product is visually visible. Permissible grain content - 60 pcs. per 1 dm².
2. Higher. It has the same characteristic features as the extra variety. Grit size - 280 pcs. per 1 dm².
3. First. A grayish tint predominates, sometimes a sour smell is felt. The grain content reaches 700 pcs. per 1 dm².
4. Second. It is used for technical purposes, so the grain size of the product does not matter. In demand in printing houses and textile production.

For home use, it is better to choose extra and premium starch.

For reference. The high-quality polymer is crumbly and has no lumps. If you rub a pinch of the product between your fingers, you can hear a slight squeaking sound.

Composition, energy value, microelements and KBJU

The energy value of the polymer is 313 kcal per 100 g of BJU:

• proteins - 0.1 g;
• fats - 0 g;
• carbohydrates - 78.2 g.

Composition: a mixture of amylopectin and amylose. Of the vitamins, starch contains only PP. Microelements are presented more diversely:

• calcium;
• potassium;
• phosphorus;
• sodium

Also, per 100 g of starch there are 1.4 g of dietary fiber.

Beneficial properties of potato starch for humans

How is starch useful for humans? The most pronounced benefits of the product were noted for the gastrointestinal tract. The polymer normalizes the acidity of gastric juice. Prevents many serious intestinal problems due to its regenerative, hemostatic, anti-inflammatory, and enveloping effects. It is these properties of the polymer that are useful for gastritis and ulcers.

Starch exists in simple and resistant forms. Each of them has certain benefits for the human body:

1. Simple. Easily digestible type. Charges the body with energy by converting it into glucose.
2. Resistant. Normalizes blood sugar levels and increases insulin sensitivity. Resistant to most enzymatic processes. Passes through the gastrointestinal tract practically without changes. In the colon it becomes a breeding ground for beneficial microflora, promotes the absorption of micro- and macroelements from food, and increases the body’s ability to eliminate toxins.

The belonging of starch to a specific type is unstable. For example, mashed potatoes contain a simple polymer, while chilled potatoes contain a resistant polymer.

With regular consumption of starch, the level of bad cholesterol is reduced, which serves as an excellent prevention of atherosclerosis. The product also activates the synthesis of vitamin B2 in the body.

Other beneficial properties include:

• quenching thirst and dulling the feeling of hunger;
• removing excess fluid, eliminating swelling;
• prevention of the formation of pathogenic cells.

The phosphorus and calcium content in starch has a beneficial effect on the condition of human hair, nails, bones and teeth.

Harm of starch to the human body

There are no contraindications to the use of starch, but its excess will cause discomfort in the gastrointestinal tract, increased gas formation, constipation, and will cause extra pounds in people with a tendency to be overweight.

The constant presence of refined starch in the diet threatens to increase blood sugar levels and hormonal disorders.

A modified polymer can cause more harm. There is a theory that it slows down digestion and depletes blood vessels.

Thermally treated polymer provokes premature aging of the body and increases the risk of developing cancer.

The use of starch in the treatment of diseases

Potato flour is included in many medicines.The range of uses of starch in folk medicine is limitless. It's being used for colds, diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, to normalize blood pressure and etc. diseases. With its help you can stop bleeding and get rid of diaper rash.

For the stomach and intestines

For diseases of the stomach and intestines, it is recommended to consume 1 tsp. starch three times a day 15-20 minutes before meals. Drink with warm water.

For gastrointestinal upset, prepare a medicinal solution:

1. Add 1 tbsp to 125 ml of warm water. l. starch.
2. Add 5 drops of iodine, stirring constantly. The solution will turn blue.
3. Drink in one gulp, repeat if necessary.

During pregnancy

During pregnancy, you can reduce high blood pressure with the help of a polymer. To do this, consume a starch solution (15 g per 0.5 cup of warm water) every day for 10-14 days. Monitoring pressure indicators is mandatory.

Diaper rash

Powder made from starch, talc and zinc oxide is effective. The components are mixed in equal proportions. This remedy also helps with bedsores in bedridden patients.

For reference. Starch stops bleeding. To do this, sprinkle the wound with powder.

For dermatitis

For skin diseases (eczema, allergies), the polymer is used externally as a powder. It is allowed to rub the product into the affected areas.

Baths with starch are effective: 4-5 tbsp. l. Pour boiling water over the product and stir. Add to bath. The optimal water temperature is no more than +37°C. The duration of the procedure is 7-10 minutes. Frequency: the first 4 procedures with an interval of one day, the next 3 with an interval of 2 days, the last 2 procedures - within 14 days.

For diarrhea

Recipe for a homemade analogue of “Smecta”: dilute 1 tbsp. l. starch in 125 ml of warm water, mix thoroughly and drink immediately.Repeat if necessary, but not more than 3 times a day.

For burns

Starch paste will help. To do this, mix the starch with water in the required amount by eye. The product should have a paste-like consistency. Apply to the burn site for 15-20 minutes, rinse.

For sore throat

To prepare a rinse solution, 0.5 tsp. starch diluted in 1 tbsp. warm water. Add 5 drops of 5% iodine, mix thoroughly. Gargle 3-5 times a day. This recipe will relieve stomatitis.

For mastitis

Prepare a compress from ½ tbsp. vegetable oil and 3-4 tsp. starch. Place the mixture in a gauze bag and leave it on the sore chest for 50-60 minutes.

Important. Traditional methods of treating mastitis, like other diseases, will not replace conservative therapy. To avoid complications, consult a doctor.

For ARVI

At the initial stage of the disease, a medicinal mixture will help eliminate symptoms. For this:

1. Mix 0.5 tbsp. l. starch, 1 tbsp. l. honey, 2 tbsp. l. melted butter and 2 egg yolks.
2. Mix thoroughly and take 1 tbsp an hour before meals. l. at least 3 times a day.

What else can be made from potato starch?

In addition to treating various diseases, potato flour is successfully used in cosmetology. With its help at home you can get rid of wrinkles, tighten pores, and even out your complexion.

On the other hand, the unique properties of starch make it a universal household remedy. The product will always help out if you don’t have, for example, wallpaper glue, insect bite repellent or detergent on hand.

Paste

Paste recipe:

1. Mix cold water and starch (1:1) so that there are no lumps.
2. Boil 800 ml of water in a separate container.
3. Combine liquids and bring to a boil, stirring thoroughly.
4. When the consistency of the liquid dough is reached, add a little PVA glue (for moisture resistance).
5. Bring to a boil, cool and strain.

Starch glue is more suitable for lightweight wallpaper. In other cases, it is better to use flour paste or industrial glue.

Window Cleaner

To prepare an environmentally friendly window cleaner you need:

1. Mix in 2 tbsp. water 1 tbsp. l. potato flour. To stir thoroughly.
2. Add 50 g of vinegar and alcohol to the mixture. Shake vigorously.
3. Pour into a spray bottle and start cleaning the windows.
4. After drying, wipe them with a clean cloth. There will be no trace left of dirt and stains.

Soap substitute

Potato flour is perfect as a hygiene product. For 1 liter of warm water add 1 tbsp. l. product. Wash your face and then rinse your face with plain water.

Remedy for insect bites and irritations

You can quickly get rid of itchy skin using a starch solution. In 1 tbsp. add 1 tsp of water. polymer. Treat irritated skin. Relief is felt immediately.

Mask for the face

Starch will maintain freshness and improve skin tone. Mix kefir and polymer in equal proportions, apply to face for 30 minutes, rinse with warm water.

Deodorant

Potato flour is an excellent base for a natural deodorant. Mix starch and soda in equal proportions (¼ cup each), add 10 drops of tea tree oil and 2-3 tbsp. l. coconut oil. Stir until smooth. If desired, add a little vitamin E and any other essential oil.

Silverware cleaner

You can also add shine to silverware using a solution of potato flour. Stir 2 tbsp. l. starch in 1 liter of water. Treat the devices with the solution and wipe dry.

Carpet stain remover

Sprinkle the stain with starch and leave it overnight, and remove it with a vacuum cleaner in the morning. If the stain does not budge the first time, prepare a paste of starch and add a few drops of pure gasoline to it. Then apply again to the greasy stain, and then carry out standard carpet cleaning.

Advice. You can noticeably refresh the carpet by sprinkling it with potato flour before cleaning. Leave for 30 minutes, vacuum.

Grease solvent

Starch will remove grease from tiles, stoves or furniture. To do this, simply clean with a small amount of potato flour applied to a dry cloth.

Plasticine

Potato starch will add joy to your child. It makes excellent soft plasticine. For this you will need:

• 1¼ tbsp. cold water;
• 1 tbsp. starch;
• 2 tbsp. l. soda

Mix the ingredients thoroughly. If desired, add a few drops of gel coloring.

"Dry shampoo" for animals

You can clean your pet's fur without bathing. Rub starch into it and brush well with a brush.

For reference. An effective way to freshen soft toys is to treat them with starch, leave for 30-40 minutes, and vacuum.

Reviews

The successful use of starch in folk medicine and cosmetology is confirmed by numerous user reviews.

Veronica, 44 years old: “I came across an article and immediately remembered how my grandmother treated the wounds on my knees with starch pulp. The blood immediately stopped flowing. It’s a good remedy, you should take note of it.”

Natalya, 52 years old: “It would seem like ordinary starch, but no... For me, this is a super product with a lifting effect. I heard that with the help of this mask, Chinese women got a porcelain complexion. What I noted for myself: nourishes and tightens the skin, evens out the color. I am sharing the recipe for the perfect mask: starch, salt, milk and honey. Everything is in equal quantity. Use it, don’t thank me.”

Irina, 30 years old: “I have been suffering from stomach ulcers for three years. The doctor advised me to periodically take blue iodine at home. Let me warn you right away that this product is incompatible with medications. I use it as a preventive measure and am satisfied with the effect. Typically, exacerbation occurs in the fall and spring, but this spring I survived without a relapse.”

Read also:

Is it possible to eat potatoes if you have high cholesterol?

Who grew the largest potato in the world and what it looks like.

Galaxy potato variety with excellent taste and long shelf life.

Conclusion

Starch is used in everyday life as a cleaning agent, is included in traditional medicine recipes, and is valued due to its easy digestibility and high energy value. When using starch and potato flour to treat diseases, remember that they do not replace medications and can only be used as an addition to the main therapy.