Extracting Calcium

Well, tablets are handy, but it you just need to extract slightly more bioavailable Calcium from a natural source, there’s a pretty easy way to do that as well. Basically (not a science pun, but it could be!), it is possible to use a weak acid to react with anything containing Calcium Carbonate. That could include such things as limestone, chalk, and sea shells. In our case we will try just to use something readily available, egg shells (specifically chicken egg shells). This will form Calcium Citrate in solution which has a little better uptake by the body.

Now, if you want a more vegan friendly version, you could just use calcium carbonate powder that has been mined (not overty from shellfish). Actually many digestive aids like Tums are pretty much just Calcium Carbonate, but may contain colorants and sweeteners like sucralose. So, you’re not into those too much, the powder is OK.

This is not a full chemical extraction, though, so there will be remaining calcium carbonate that you will strain off and filter. If you use a fully ground powder, there is a bit of a chance you might have a bit of a “chalky” final solution which may require additional filtering. I think it’s pretty safe to say that the materials here.

Equipment Needed:

Bamboo Steamer

Pot to Mount Steamer On

1 Quart Ball Canning Jar

1 Cup Lemon Juice

6 Egg Shells (make some omeletes or something! Try to keep them as whole as you can)

Handheld mesh Strainer

Coffee Filter

Paper Bag (or plastic)

Rolling Pin

Pre-Prep:

1. As you collect them, wash the eggshells and allow to air dry. This can be done over time if you like.

2. Place the shells in a bamboo steamer. Line with cloth if your pieces are too small.

3. Steam with boiling water for 10 minutes.

4. Remove shells and place them in the bag.

5. Gradually crush them with the rolling pin until fairly well broken up, but not powder.

Preparation:

1. Place broken shells into the jar.

2. Top with lemon juice and stir well.

3. Cover with lid loosely to allow for gas to escape, and place in the refrigerator (The temperature drop will probably slow the reaction, but it will also delay any unwanted fermentation from any residual sugar in the juice).

4. Allow reaction to occur for one week, checking for activity every day.

Finishing:

1. Place a coffee filter in a small mesh strainer and strain into a small bowl.

2. Store for use, or you can freeze in smaller amounts (ice cube trays work well) for later use.