What Is Black Alum (Shabba Sawda)?

Black alum is a chemical compound made from two types of salts: potassium sulfate and aqueous aluminum solution. It is found in abundance in Yemen, often in the form of small crystals.

It comes in various forms, including solid black crystals or black powder. Considered a natural remedy, black alum plays a key role in alternative medicine for treating certain health conditions. It is also widely used in cosmetics, skincare, and other wellness applications.

Why Many Women Use Black Alum After Childbirth

Many women turn to black alum immediately after childbirth because of its known ability to tighten muscles and treat inflammation.

It’s believed to be effective in reducing back pain, minimizing skin wrinkles, stopping gum bleeding, and eliminating dark circles, acne, and blackheads. Additionally, it is used to soothe skin irritation, whiten underarms, lighten the skin, and even eliminate head lice. The list of potential benefits is extensive.

Top Benefits and Uses of Black Alum

Black alum is often used in beauty and wellness routines. From treating acne to relieving muscle cramps, this natural ingredient can be surprisingly powerful, as highlighted by Healthshots. Here's a breakdown of its most notable uses:

1. Treating Mouth Ulcers

Apply a small piece of black alum directly to the sore. Although it may sting temporarily, the ulcer is often gone by the next day.
Alternatively, you can make a mouthwash by boiling black alum powder with a bit of salt. Once dissolved, use this as a rinse 2–3 times daily to speed healing.

2. Eye Abscess (Stye) Relief

Black alum paste can be applied gently to the eyelid to treat eye abscesses (styes). It provides quick relief and may help eliminate the issue completely.

3. Eliminating Bad Breath

One of the main causes of bad breath is bacterial buildup. A black alum mouthwash can reduce toxins and prevent bacteria growth in the mouth.

4. Muscle Cramp Relief

When mixed with turmeric, black alum becomes an excellent natural remedy for muscle cramps. While alum helps with blood thinning, turmeric provides antiseptic properties—together they form a potent treatment.

5. Cracked Heels Treatment

Applying black alum powder regularly can heal cracked heels over time, providing comfort and long-lasting relief.

6. Stops Bleeding

Research shows that black alum can effectively stop bleeding when applied to wounds. The powder helps form a protective barrier.
However, for deep or uncontrollable bleeding, seek medical help immediately.

7. Athlete’s Foot Remedy

Soak your feet in warm water mixed with 2–3 tablespoons of black alum powder for 20 minutes. This method relieves symptoms and helps treat athlete’s foot. Make sure to dry your feet well afterward and avoid synthetic fabrics until fully healed.

8. Natural Deodorant

Because of its antibacterial properties, black alum can be used as a natural deodorant. Just dampen a piece and apply it to the underarms. It’s best to use it every other day rather than daily.

9. Hair Removal Aid

Black alum is traditionally used for hair removal. Mix ½ tsp of powder with 1 tsp of rose water. Apply the paste to the area and leave it for about 20 minutes. Reapply rose water to keep it moist if needed. Rinse and moisturize afterward.
Avoid the eye area and apply a light moisturizer post-treatment.

10. Reducing Wrinkles

With age and environmental factors, skin loses elasticity. Black alum helps reduce fine lines and wrinkles, delaying signs of premature aging.

11. Treating Head Lice

Create a mixture of black alum powder, water, and tea tree oil. Apply this to the scalp and leave it for a while before rinsing. This helps kill lice effectively.

12. Diarrhea Relief

Due to its anti-dehydration properties, black alum tea can be consumed to help relieve diarrhea.
However, consult a doctor if symptoms worsen or persist. It also eases constipation and digestive discomfort.

Black Alum for Bone and Joint Health in Women

Black alum supports joint lubrication and boosts white blood cell production, which strengthens the immune system and helps fight bacteria. It aids in building stronger bones and muscles and promotes emotional well-being. This ancient remedy has long been used for musculoskeletal health.

When combined with turmeric, it becomes an ideal natural muscle cramp treatment.

Benefits of Black Alum for Joint Pain

Joint pain—particularly in older women—can result from arthritis, gout, or joint injuries. This pain can be severe and limit mobility. While modern medicine provides solutions, many still turn to natural remedies like black alum for relief.

One common method is using black alum oil, made by mixing powdered alum with olive oil or sometimes castor oil. Apply it directly to affected joints, such as knees or elbows, to relieve pain and inflammation.

As referenced on Herbpathy, black alum remains a widely respected component of traditional healing practices for bones and joints.

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