Sure, eggs are great for eating. They are full of healthy fats and protein, are affordable, and delicious. They are filled with B vitamins, zinc, iron, riboflavin, lutein, among other important nutrients. But did you know eggs have other uses too? Here are 7 unexpected uses for your favorite go-to breakfast food.
Face mask. Mixing an egg yolk and a couple of teaspoons of raw honey into a paste makes a great face mask. Spread it over your face for 10-15 minutes to moisturize the skin. The emulsifier lecitihin found in egg yolks moisturizes and raw honey contains anti-inflammatories to soothe the skin.
Facial cleanser. Eggs white are useful for oily, acne-prone skin. Mix an egg white and a small squeeze of lemon juice to make a mask. Let it dry on your face for 15 minutes, and rinse off. Egg whites can promote skin firming while the acidity in lemon juice can brighten your complexion.
Natural glue. Instead of buying Elmer’s, try egg whites in a pinch. If you are gluing paper together, the proteins in whites set hard when they dry. Simply use a paint brush to paint egg whites onto paper or cardboard — especially great for papier-mâché — and non-toxic!
Fertilize plants. Eggs can boost your plants in 2 ways. The crushed eggshells can impart calcium into the soil. Also, the cooled water from hard-boiled eggs is another great source of calcium for plants, so reuse your water to hydrate your houseplants.
Deter garden pests. Sprinkle eggshells over gardens to discourage slug and snail infestation. Not only will it keep unwanted pests at bay, but, as aforementioned, it will nourish the plants and soil.
Make less bitter coffee. Brew your coffee with crushed leftover eggshells from hardboiled eggs to reduce bitterness and acidity. Enjoy a much smoother brew while utilizing all those excess eggshells that would normally get tossed in the trash (or hopefully composted).
Repel deer. The smell of raw eggs is known to repel deer, so mix a few eggs with water and spritz plants that are often targeted by deer.
Make sure you use local pastured eggs, especially if you just plan on consuming the eggs. When it comes down to it, eggs are one of the most versatile foods in your kitchen. What are your favorite unusual uses or recipes for eggs?