Moreover, when exposed to moisture the carbonate in natron increases pH (raises alkalinity), which creates a hostile environment for bacteria. The mineral was used in Egyptian mummification because it absorbs water and behaves as a drying agent. It was also an ancient household insecticide, was used for making leather and as a bleach for clothing. Natron can be used to dry and preserve fish and meat. The mineral was mixed into early antiseptics for wounds and minor cuts. Undiluted, natron was a cleanser for the teeth and an early mouthwash. It softens water while removing oil and grease. Blended with oil, it was an early form of soap. Historical natron was harvested directly as a salt mixture from dry lake beds in Ancient Egypt and has been used for thousands of years as a cleaning product for both the home and body. The modern chemical symbol for sodium, Na, is an abbreviation of that element's New Latin name natrium, which was derived from natron. Natron refers to Wadi El Natrun or Natron Valley in Egypt, from which natron was mined by the ancient Egyptians for use in burial rites. This derives from the Ancient Egyptian word nṯry 'natron'. The English word natron is a French cognate derived from the Spanish natrón through Greek νίτρον nitron. 3 Chemistry of hydrated sodium carbonate.
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