Care Sodium Bicarbonate Ear Drops are used to treat hardened ear wax. Sodium bicarbonate works by softening the ear wax, allowing it to come out on its own or making syringing by the doctor much easier. Sodium bicarbonate, more commonly known as baking soda, is traditionally a salt that is used to expand batter for several different types of food. It is used in cleaning products because of its ability to remove rust and stains. In medical terms, sodium bicarbonate is used as an antacid to treat heartburn and indigestion.