Natron (Egyptian)

Nitron

Form: Powder
Unit size: 1 ounce
Origin: USA

Natron, which the Greeks called Nitron based upon the Egyptian word, has a long and ancient history of uses.  Historical natron was harvested directly as a salt mixture from dry lake beds in Ancient Egypt.  It has been used for thousands of years as a cleaning product for both the home and body. Blended with oil, it was an early form of soap. It softens water while removing oil and grease. Undiluted, natron was a cleanser for the teeth and an early mouthwash. The mineral was mixed into early antiseptics  for wounds and minor cuts. Natron can be used to dry and preserve fish and meat. It was also an ancient household insecticide, was used for making leather and as a bleach for clothing.

The mineral was used in Egyptian mummification because it absorbs water and behaves as a drying agent, and was added to castor oil to make a smokeless fuel, which allowed Egyptian artisans to paint elaborate artworks inside ancient tombs without staining them with soot.  In addition, Natron was an ingredient for making a distinct color called Egyptian blue. It was used along with sand and lime in ceramic and glass-making by the Romans and others at least until 640 CE. The mineral was also employed as a flux to solder precious metals together.

Natron was also an ingredient in many of the Egyptian incense recipes.  This Natron is a reconstruction of the Natron from Egypt and contains Soda Ash, Baking Soda, common salt, and other trace minerals.

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