Did you know that eggshells, often discarded without a second thought, are a natural powerhouse of calcium? Instead of throwing them away, you can transform them into a simple, effective supplement that can benefit your musculoskeletal system, skin, nails, and hair. This guide will show you how to safely prepare eggshell powder at home, so you can take advantage of this incredible, all-natural resource.
How to Prepare a Natural Eggshell Calcium Supplement
Ingredients
- 10-15 chicken eggshells
Equipment
- Soap and water
- Small pot
- Coffee grinder or high-speed blender
- Sieve or fine mesh strainer
- Airtight jar for storage
Instructions
- Clean the Eggshells: Begin by thoroughly washing the eggshells in soapy water. This helps remove any external bacteria or contaminants.
- Rinse and Boil: After washing, rinse the shells thoroughly under running water. Place the clean shells in a small pot, cover them with water, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and let them simmer for about 10 minutes. This sterilization step is crucial to kill any remaining bacteria.
- Dry the Shells: Drain the water and transfer the boiled shells to a baking sheet. Place them in an oven preheated to 360∘F (180∘C). Bake for about 10 minutes, or until they are completely dry and brittle. This step ensures they will grind easily and prevents mold.
- Grind to a Fine Powder: Once the shells have cooled, place them in a coffee grinder or a high-speed blender. Grind the shells until they form a very fine, uniform powder.
- Sift and Store: To ensure the powder is fine and safe to consume, strain it through a sieve or fine mesh strainer. Discard any large, gritty pieces that don’t pass through. Store the finished eggshell powder in a clean, airtight jar.
Usage and Benefits
- Serving Size: Take up to 1 teaspoon (approx. 5g) of eggshell powder per day.
- How to Use: Add the powder to your food. It can be mixed into smoothies, yogurt, cereal, or sprinkled over salads and other dishes. Because it’s a fine powder, it won’t affect the taste or texture of your food.
- Why It’s Good for You: Eggshells are almost entirely composed of calcium carbonate, the same form of calcium found in supplements. Calcium is essential for strengthening the musculoskeletal system, building strong bones and teeth, and preventing conditions like osteoporosis. The powder also has a positive effect on the condition of your skin, nails, and hair due to its rich mineral content.