Table of Contents
Table of Contents
- Effect of Neutralisation Reactions on the Human Body
- Baking Soda for Bee or Ant Bite
- Vinegar for Wasp Sting
- Antacids for Acidity
- Summary
- Did You Know?
- What’s Next?
In the previous segment, we have seen how neutralisation reactions are helpful in solving issues in industries and agriculture. In this segment, let’s learn a few neutralisation reactions that occur in the human body.
How do neutralisation reactions affect the human body?
Several chemical reactions occur every day inside and on the human body. Due to the outside influence or any imbalance inside, the body may face an increase in acidity or base. The neutralisation process can help us maintain an equilibrium inside and on the surface of our bodies.
Baking soda for bee or ant bite
When a bee or an ant bites us, it pains, swells, and itches in the bitten area. This reaction is due to the formic acid present in the venom. Applying baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) which is a strong base, on the skin, neutralises the acid in the venom. This is why the person bitten by a bee or an ant feels calm after the application of baking soda.
Vinegar for wasp sting
Similarly, in case of a wasp sting, applying some vinegar on the stung area helps. Vinegar is technically acetic acid. The wasp venom being alkaline, it is neutralised by the vinegar.
Antacids for acidity
The most common example to study neutralisation in the human body is that of acidity and antacid consumption.
The stomach cells secrete hydrochloric acid for the process of digestion. Consuming heavy and oily food may result in the excess secretion of hydrochloric acid. This causes severe discomfort or acidity. To neutralise this acidity, an antacid, which is a compound possessing strong basic nature, is consumed. The neutralisation reaction gives relief from the discomfort being experienced.
This is how several neutralisation reactions occur in our daily lives. Acids, bases, and salts all play a vital role in human lives in one or the other way.
