Healing practices of ancient cultures, as well as modern society, have depended on clay minerals with wide varieties of clay being used for medicinal purposes. Among these types of clay, the most commonly used are kaolin and smectite clay types like bentonite, montmorillonite and Fuller’s earth.
Medicinal clay is heralded for its antiseptic, cicatrizing (wound healing), anti-inflammatory and anti-carcinogenic properties. Natural clay, especially the form known as “bentonite clay” is known for its safe and effective healing and cleansing properties.
Bentonite Clay Benefits and Uses
Bentonite clay contains a high level of montmorillonite as the key crystalline/molecular material. The clay is transformed to a powder form and then sold for consumer and commercial uses. It has various benefits, a few are listed below:
Helps Heal Eczema, Dermatitis and Psoriasis
Bentonite clay acts as an antibiotic when applied topically to the skin. It helps calm skin infections and speeds up healing time of wounds. It also acts as a magnet and a sponge. Its highly charged negative ions attract all positive charged ions (bacteria, viruses, toxins, etc.) from your body. These substances stick to and are absorbed and eliminated from your body with the clay.
While applications of Bentonite Clay may not cure cases of Psoriasis and Eczema, it will help in a significant way. Bentonite Clay also helps reduce outbreak of blemishes, alleviates redness and fights allergic reactions from irritating lotions or face washes.1
Removes Fluoride
There has been a rising concern over the fluoride content in our drinking water. Fluorides have been linked to a variety of severe chronic, even acute health issues.
According to studies, bentonite clay, when combined with magnesium chloride, successfully reduced fluoride present in fluoridated water. This may lead to a better water filtration technique in the future.
Boosts Immunity
Bentonite clay has powerful antibiotic properties that help ward off various viruses, infections, and diseases. Clay is highly absorptive. It readily absorbs toxins, heavy metals, bacteria, virus and fungi. It effectively boosts immunity by protecting the lining of the gut, shielding it from harm-inducing toxins.
According to studies, bentonite clay was found to be highly effective at killing several types of seriously harmful illnesses, like E. Coli and MRSA for example. Bentonite aids the body to absorb oxygen. It is able to take out the unnecessary hydrogen from the cell, allowing more space for oxygen. As a result, the body can have a better immune system and feel more energized.2
Toxic Metal Cleansing
Toxic heavy metals are, unfortunately, present in our air, water, soil and food supply as a by-product of our industrialized society. People who have acute toxicity from heavy metals such as lead, mercury, benzene and cadmium may display obvious and classical symptoms of poisoning.
Studies have revealed that bentonite clay may be helpful for reducing these harmful metals.
Relieves Digestive Problems
In recent years, the use of bentonite clay and other montmorillonite products have become popular as a colon cleanser and natural detoxifier. Due to ability to neutralize bacteria in the gut and kill viruses, bentonite clay helps alleviate many digestive problems. It is often used as relief for nausea and vomiting by pregnant women and helps with IBS (Irritable bowel syndrome).
A study that was performed in 1998 also showed that Bentonite has the ability to help with digestive problems because it is capable of digesting harmful toxins known as the rotavirus and the coronavirus. Rotaviruses are one of the leading causes of gastrointestinal distress, such as diarrhea and nausea, in infants and toddlers.
Ways to Use Bentonite Clay
Bentonite clay is powerful and effective. When it is used externally, it may be applied in several different forms, such as poultices, powder, and baths. It can also be taken internally as it is an effective detoxifier. The clay can be used in the following ways:
A Facial Mask
- Mix 1 tablespoon bentonite clay with 1 tablespoon of water.
- Apply the bentonite clay mask to your face.
- Leave the mask on for about 20 to 30 minutes.
- Rinse off the mask using just water.
For Internal Cleansing Purposes
Mix 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of clay in water and consume.
You can gradually work your way up to 2 or 3 teaspoons, but be sure to speak with your doctor while increasing your intake.
Naturopathic practitioners recommend taking bentonite clay on an empty stomach, if possible, at least 1 hour before eating or ingesting any other herbs or supplements.
Add it to your bath
You can also add 1/4 cup of bentonite clay to bathwater along with 1/4 cup of baking soda for detoxing and for softening the skin.
Side Effects of Bentonite Clay
The most common side effect of consuming bentonite clay is constipation. When you first introduce bentonite clay into your diet, you may experience some detox symptoms such as headaches as well. Since bentonite clay is considered a hypoallergenic substance, it’s always best to consult with your doctor before using it internally.
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