India is rich in natural resources that offer a variety of benefits. There is a growing trend of finding natural DIY remedies for literally everything, with household items like Gondka Tira and spices like cinnamon and turmeric gaining popularity globally.
A new trend has just been discovered on the internet – Fitkari (Pitkari), also known as Alam.
While social media is abuzz about the benefits of this white, quartz-like stone, you’ve likely seen your family using Phytokari for a variety of purposes, including improving skin health, combating body odor, or as part of an aftershave kit.
My own mother introduced me to Fitocari many years ago when I first got acne as a teenager.
But important questions remain: does Phytokari really work, and do dermatologists approve of its use?
Worldwide fame
“Phytokari has an ancient presence in Ayurveda and Indian culture and is gaining popularity globally due to its natural antibacterial properties that make it an effective addition to skin care and personal hygiene,” says Dr Geeta Grewal, renowned beautician and founder of 9Muses Wellness Clinic, Gurugram. India Today.
The doctor added that growing interest in natural remedies and sustainability is driving its popularity, along with growing awareness of its benefits as an acne treatment, anti-ageing and natural deodorant.
Dr Gitika Sanodia Biyani, consultant dermatologist and trichologist at L H Hiranandani Hospital, Mumbai, agrees and says the rise in DIY beauty treatments and endorsements by social media influencers also play a key role.
Full of benefits
Dr Grewal explains that Phytokari has antibacterial, astringent, exfoliating and anti-inflammatory properties that benefit the skin by reducing acne. Phytokari also tightens pores, reduces oil production, soothes inflammation and gives the skin a clearer, firmer appearance.
My doctor also told me that alum has anti-aging properties: its astringent properties firm the skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and it also promotes exfoliation, revealing smoother, more youthful-looking skin.
Dr Biyani added that Phytokari also improves blood circulation and increases skin elasticity and firmness.
In addition, alum has antibacterial properties, so it can also help reduce body odor. It can kill the bacteria that cause odor, making it a natural deodorant. Alum also has an astringent effect, which can help reduce sweating to a certain extent.
What is the correct usage?
Dr Grewal says the correct way to use Fitkari depends on your goals.
For acne:
- Solution: Dissolve some phytokari in water.
- application: Apply the solution to the affected area with a cotton swab.
- interval: Leave it on for 15 to 20 minutes and then rinse with water.
As an anti-aging treatment:
- paste: Mix phytokari powder with water to make a paste.
- application: Apply to face and neck.
- interval: Leave it on for 10 to 15 minutes and then rinse with lukewarm water.
For body odor:
- Direct use: Wet the Phytokari and apply it under your arms and in areas where you sweat easily.
- injection: Dissolve Phytokari in water and use as a spray.
Let’s talk about side effects
- Skin irritationAlum may cause dryness and irritation, especially for those with sensitive skin.
- Allergic reactions: After use, some people may experience symptoms such as redness, itchiness, and rashes.
- Overuse: Excessive use may cause dryness and irritation.
- Eye irritation: Avoid contact of Phytokari with eyes as it may cause irritation.
Diarmait’s verdict
“Though known for its traditional uses, phytokari is not widely accepted by dermatologists as a primary treatment. However, most dermatologists agree that when used correctly and with care, it can be effective in treating minor skin problems like acne and body odor,” says Dr Biyani.
Meanwhile, Dr Grewal feels that “Though some dermatologists acknowledge the efficacy of Phytokari, it is not widely accepted among dermatologists due to possible side effects such as irritation and allergic reactions. It is not FDA approved for any specific dermatological treatment.”
The doctor added that the effectiveness of alum may vary from person to person and is generally recommended for milder conditions rather than severe skin disorders. People with particularly sensitive skin should use alum with caution. It is recommended to consult a dermatologist before incorporating it into your skin care routine.
What are the alternatives?
For acne, alternatives to phytocalciferol include tea tree oil, witch hazel, and salicylic acid. For body odor, natural deodorants containing baking soda, coconut oil, and essential oils are effective and often recommended by dermatologists.
On the other hand, if you are using alum for the first time, make sure to dilute it properly to prevent irritation, use small amounts and avoid prolonged contact with the skin.
Experts recommend always doing a patch test before incorporating alum into your skincare routine to ensure you don’t have an allergic reaction.
Additionally, after applying Phytokari on your face, be sure to apply a moisturizer to prevent dryness and use it only 2-3 times a week to avoid over-drying your skin.
Can I eat phytokari?
Several social media posts recommending consumption of alum, so I asked Neelima Bisht, head of clinical nutrition, department of nutrition, Paras Health, Gurugram, whether it was safe to consume alum.
“The phytokari commonly sold in the market is inedible. Hence, consumption of alum is not recommended,” says the doctor.
Phytokari is effective when used externally and not ingested. It has antiseptic and astringent properties. In traditional medicine, it is used to treat minor cuts and scrapes to stop bleeding and contract tissues to promote healing.
However, taking alum too little or in excess can have side effects. Taking alum can cause gastrointestinal problems, including nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
