In recent years, there’s been growing interest in natural and sustainable ways to improve health and wellness. Among these ideas, one that often circulates online is the belief that boiling eggshells can help prevent or treat disease. But how much of that is true? Let’s take a closer look at what science and nutrition actually say.

What Happens When You Boil Eggshells

Eggshells are composed of around 95% calcium carbonate, along with small amounts of protein and other trace minerals like magnesium and phosphorus. When you boil them, a few things happen:

Bacteria such as Salmonella are destroyed.
This makes the shells safe to handle or use in other ways.

Some calcium leaches into the water.

This is why “eggshell tea” or eggshell water is sometimes used as a natural calcium source for plants or even as a supplement after proper preparation.

So yes—boiling makes eggshells cleaner and more useful, but that doesn’t mean they become a medicine.

Can Boiling Eggshells Cure or Prevent Disease?

The short answer: no, not directly.

Boiling eggshells does not produce any substance that can fight viruses, bacteria, or other diseases in the human body. However, they can play an indirect role in supporting good health if used correctly.

Here’s how:

1. A Natural Source of Calcium

Calcium is crucial for strong bones, healthy teeth, nerve signaling, and muscle function. A calcium deficiency can lead to conditions like osteoporosis, brittle nails, and muscle cramps.

By boiling, drying, and grinding eggshells into a fine powder, you can create a natural calcium supplement. This can help prevent calcium deficiency-related problems, but it’s not a cure for diseases.

Important: Always ensure eggshells are properly sterilized and finely ground to avoid contamination or digestive issues. Talk to your doctor before using homemade supplements.

2. Reducing Waste and Supporting Sustainable Health

Using eggshells instead of throwing them away supports eco-friendly living. While this doesn’t directly fight disease, reducing waste and living sustainably can improve your environment and overall well-being.

3. Healthier Plants, Healthier Food

Boiled eggshell water is often used as a natural fertilizer. Calcium from the shells strengthens plant cell walls, helping crops resist rot, pests, and fungal infections. Healthier plants produce more nutritious food, which indirectly supports human health.

So while eggshell water doesn’t cure disease, it can help you grow healthier food that supports your immune system naturally.

Common Myths About Boiled Eggshells

There are several misconceptions floating around the internet, such as:

“Drinking eggshell water can cure arthritis or diabetes.”

“Boiled eggshells detoxify your body.”

“Eggshells can replace medicine.”

These claims are not supported by scientific evidence. Eggshells are rich in minerals, but they are not a substitute for medical treatment or a balanced diet.

Safe Ways to Use Boiled Eggshells

If you’d like to take advantage of the natural benefits of eggshells, here are some safe, practical methods:

For a calcium boost:

Rinse eggshells thoroughly to remove residue.

Boil for 10 minutes to sterilize.

Dry completely (in sunlight or an oven).

Grind into a fine powder using a blender.

Store in a clean jar and use small amounts (½ teaspoon per day) in smoothies or soups.

For plants:

Boil crushed eggshells in water for 10–15 minutes.

Let the mixture cool, strain it, and use it to water your plants.
This provides calcium and helps balance soil acidity.