Uses for eggshells
- Aunt Plantsy
- Feb 10, 2023
- 3 min read
Updated: Jun 29
With the price of eggs, chicken, and even chicken feed rising these days, how can we be more self-sufficient in our use of eggshells?
There are many ways you can utilize eggshells and I’m sure you’ve heard many of these ideas.
Calcium supplement
Eggshells are made up mainly of calcium carbonate, a main form of calcium and also includes some protein and minerals. Years ago, eggshells were ground into a fine powder and used as a main source of calcium. Eggshells contain approximately 40% calcium so a half of an eggshell a day may fulfill your daily requirement for an adult of 1,000 mg.
A study in isolated cells found that calcium absorption was up to 64% greater from eggshell powder compared to pure calcium carbonate. Researchers attributed these effects to certain proteins found in eggshells.
In addition to calcium and protein, eggshells also contain small amounts of other minerals, including strontium, fluoride, magnesium and selenium. Just like calcium, these minerals may play a role in bone health.
Osteoporosis is a health condition characterized by weak bones and an increased risk of bone fractures. In 2010, it affected an estimated 54 million older Americans.
Old age is one of the strongest risk factors for osteoporosis, but inadequate calcium intake may also contribute to bone loss and osteoporosis over time.
If your diet is lacking calcium, taking supplements may help you reach your daily requirements. Eggshell powder is a cheap option.
One study in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis found that taking eggshell powder, along with vitamin D3 and magnesium, significantly strengthened their bones by improving bone mineral density.
Eggshell powder may even be more effective at reducing osteoporosis risk than purified calcium carbonate.
To prevent the risk of injury or infection, eggshells should be boiled and ground into a fine powder before consuming.
Eggshells can be ground into a powder and then mixed with water or food. A daily intake of 2.5 grams (roughly 1/2 teaspoon) should be enough to meet your requirements, but always speak to a medical physician first.
The outer shells aren’t the only components of eggshells proving to have useful medical applications. One study gauged the effectiveness of using eggshell membranes as an alternative therapy for joint connective tissue disorders, such as arthritis, lupus, gout and back pain. These conditions are commonly treated with analgesics or anti-inflammatory drugs, which have limited effectiveness and can create cardiac risks and gastrointestinal issues.
In contrast, the eggshell membrane proved to relieve the pain and discomfort associated with joint connective tissue disorder without these complicating side effects.
Composting
The calcium and other minerals break down into the soil, providing rich nutrients for your future garden. Crushing the shells beforehand hastens their decomposition.
Coffee additive
You can boil eggshells in your coffee. The alkaline nature of the eggshells balances out the coffee’s acidity, resulting in a smoother, mellower flavor without coffee’s bitterness. Simply rinse the uncooked shells with hot water, then crush them by hand and add them to the grounds for the brewing process. One egg will be enough for a small pot of four servings. Use two eggs for the more standard six- to 12-serving pots.
Scouring power on dishes
Crushed shells can give your standard dish soap extra abrasiveness without all the toxins found in chemical-based soaps. Simply place a pinch or two of the crushed shells in with the soap as you wash. The eggshells are especially good at cleaning hard-to-reach spots like the narrow necks of thermoses and vases. Fill the vase halfway with hot water, add the eggshell-soap combination, cover and shake vigorously.
Eggshell mask
Crush a clean eggshell with a mortar and pestle. Whisk the crushed eggshell into the egg white, apply the mixture to your face, and avoid getting into the eyes. Let the mask dry before removing. The proteins in the egg whites and shells combine to tighten and rejuvenate your skin thanks to the skin-healing benefits of egg collagen.
Worm farm supplement
If you see a bunch of tiny white worms in your worm farm, the soil is too acidic. This could be caused by too many acidic foods, such as tomatoes. A handful of crushed egg shells or ashes from your fireplace will help to balance the effect of acidic foods.
Feed to your chickens or pets
Crush the eggs shells into a fine power and feed back to your chickens or pets to give them a needed calcium boost.
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