Why Does Garlic Smell Linger on Your Hands?
The Science Behind the Smell
When you crush or cut garlic, you release a compound called allicin. This compound is responsible for garlic's characteristic pungent smell. Allicin is also a powerful antibacterial and antifungal agent, which is why garlic has been used for centuries to treat infections.
How Stainless Steel Removes Garlic Smell
When you rub your fingers on stainless steel under running water, the molecules in the steel bind with the sulfur molecules in the allicin. This bond breaks the allicin molecule apart, and the sulfur molecules are released into the water. The result is that the garlic smell is removed from your fingers.
Other Ways to Remove Garlic Smell from Hands
If you don't have access to stainless steel, there are a few other things you can try to remove the garlic smell from your hands:
- Lemon juice: Rub lemon juice on your hands and let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing with water.
- White vinegar: Soak your hands in a bowl of white vinegar for a few minutes before rinsing with water.
- Baking soda: Make a paste with baking soda and water and apply it to your hands. Let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing with water.
- Salt: Scrub your hands with salt and water.
Conclusion
If you're looking for a quick and easy way to remove the garlic smell from your hands, rubbing them on stainless steel under running water is the best option. However, if you don't have access to stainless steel, there are a few other things you can try, such as lemon juice, white vinegar, baking soda, or salt.
Comments