Bentonite, a form of natural and impure clay, has always been known for its ability to treat many health problems. Know aboutBentonite clay is an internal cleanser and a detoxifying agent. It removes toxic agents and wastes from the body. This clay has been used by over 200 cultures throughout the world. It is formed by the effect of weathering on volcanic ash in presence of water. This medicinal clay is an absorbent aluminum phyllosilicate. It comes in the form of a tasteless gray gel, powder or capsule. It is generally consumed in its solid and liquid forms. Clay expert, Ran Knishinsky, in his book, ‘The Clay Cure’ (Healing Arts Press, 1998), quotes “I have been eating dirt every day for the past six years”…
How Does Bentonite Clay Improve Health
# When taken orally, bentonite cleanses the internal system by eliminating toxic agents. For effective colon cleansing regimen, bentonite clay is an ideal medicine. When bentonite mixes with water, it swells up and spreads like a sheet of highly porous sponge. Now the particles on the surface of this sponge are negatively charged. So when this sponge passes through the intestinal tract, it binds with positively charged toxins and impurities (free radicals, herbicides, intestinal parasites, heavy metals, pesticides, etc.) and absorbs them. So eventually the bentonite is expelled from the body along with the toxins bound to its multiple surfaces. That is why it is important to drink plenty of water to help expel the ingested clay.
# Hydrated bentonite clay fixes free oxygen in the blood stream and increases the T-cell count (T-cells are a type of lymphocytes that are an important part of the body’s defense mechanisms). As this clay does not get digested or absorbed by the gastrointestinal tract, it remains unchanged and harmless to the body.
# Other than removing bacterial, organic and non-organic toxic agents, bentonite clay also helps in reducing heartburn, and managing hay fever, allergy and anemia. Regular use of the liquid form of this clay has shown significant results in treating conditions like traveler’s diarrhea, constipation, indigestion, ulcers, etc.
# Clearer complexion, brighter and whiter eyes, improved presence of mind and reduction in emotional stress, repair of tissues’ wear and tear, and improved bowel movements, are some of the amazing healing properties of bentonite clay. It raises the body’s elimination level and supports organ functions, thereby strengthening the immune system.
# Bentonite clay can also be used externally on skin for managing acne outbreaks and skin rashes. It also helps in soothing muscle damage, bruises, cuts and wounds. Other skin ailments like eczema, psoriasis, bacterial and fungal infections can also be treated with a bentonite clay pack. This clay helps improve skin health by drawing excess oil from the skin, and improving blood circulation. It also helps get rid of dead skin cells which in turn unblocks skin pores, leaving the skin clearer and glowing.
# Bentonite clay is an active ingredient in personal care products like facial creams, body lotions, anti-irritants, cleansers, cosmetic and other pharmaceutical products as well.
Cautionary Advice
Intake of bentonite clay or its products is not recommended for pregnant women and the elderly. The clay should not be taken 2-3 hours prior to taking any medicines or supplements as it may cause interactions.
Other Uses of Bentonite Clay
Ponds, ditches, dams and lagoons are sealed using bentonite sealants. It is also used to prevent toxins and waste from contaminating the soil, and in the treatment of waste and polluted water. Other than being used as a pet litter absorbent, it is used as an ingredient in detergents, crayons, paints, dyes, polishes and paper. The clay also finds its application in oil and gas industries for fluid drilling, in iron ore pelletizer, and in foundries for sand casting process.
Bentonite clay is best when taken about an hour before or after meals. General recommendation is to thoroughly mix a teaspoon of the clay in at least 8 oz. of water. It can also be mixed with fruit juice to improve flavor. Some people prefer sprinkling a small amount of bentonite powder in their food. And equally important is to drink at least 8 glasses of water when taking this clay to help it drain out of the system along with the toxins it has absorbed.
