Hello, I am a new user here on the forums and just have a few questions. I recently purchased the Ali Biyikli alum block and I was wondering if anyone here has had any experience with this block? Is it made from potash alum rather than ammonium alum? Is there any safety issues with regards to using potash alum? I understand alum is different from aluminum, but I would just like to know if it is safe to use. Thanks!
I don't know that one specifically, but there are no safety issues to worry about. Just don't get it in your mouth as it's quite bitter to taste. Similarly, avoid eye contact. Postash (potassium) Alum is the preferred form to use. The ammonium version is synthetic (man made) and can be more irritating to the skin. Welcome to the Den!
What about the fact that it has similar properties to Aluminum? Does anyone have evidence to show that this is not harmful? The main reason why I ask is from what I have read concerning Potash Alum. http://articles.mercola.com/sites/a.../16/aluminum-lurks-in-crystal-deodorants.aspx I have used it twice and I really find that the block helps, I am just worried about potential long-term effects.
A couple of quotes from the article linked above. "Potassium Alum or Ammonium Alum are natural mineral salts made up of molecules that are too large to be absorbed by your skin. They form a protective layer on your skin that inhibits the growth of odor-causing bacteria. These deodorants are recommended by many cancer treatment centers." "Regarding purportedly safe “alum” based antiperspirants found in most health food stores, the companies that produce these claim that the mineral salts are too large to be absorbed and thus provide no danger. However, we have been unable to uncover any solid evidence that supports this claim so it would seem prudent to avoid using them." There was information in the article about studies done on the effects of aluminum antiperspirants, but they say nothing about studies with Alum stones. They just say we can't find evidence that they don't act the same as the aluminum. It's kind of hard to prove a negative. The other thing I think would make them less of an issue is that it is used and then usually splashed with aftershave. It isn't just left on the skin like the antiperspirants are. Ultimately you will have to be the one to decide. I am a cancer survivor and use potash alum. YMMV
