What does baking soda do?

Answer 1

Baking soda (aka sodium bicarbonate) is an alkaline white, water-soluble powder. When mixed with an acid, it undergoes a chemical reaction that produces carbon dioxide gas-or put more simply, it creates bubbles that cause baked goods to rise. You'll often see baking soda in recipes that also include some sort of acidic ingredient, such as vinegar, yogurt, buttermilk, or cream of tartar. A few recipes, e.g. gingerbread, rely on the fact that baking soda also produces some carbon dioxide when heated alone.

Answer 2: Baking soda is excellent especially for cleaning in the kitchen and bathroom and using in your laundry. You can use a little with or without toothpaste to brush your teeth as well to keep them nice and white. When you have an upset stomach mix a little in water and drink for relief.