Bentonite clay is a healing clay derived from volcanic ash. It is also called Montmorillonite clay because it was first discovered in Montmorillon, France. I love bentonite clay for external use like a face mask or as a natural treatment for poison ivy, dermatitis, and diaper rash. However, using bentonite clay internally is more controversial.
Here are my thoughts on bentonite clay for internal use.
Health Benefits of Bentonite Clay When Used Internally
There are two main types of bentonite clay: sodium bentonite and calcium bentonite. Sodium bentonite clay is highly absorbent. It is used in agriculture and industry for its ability to increase moisture retention and create a seal. Calcium bentonite clay is the type of clay most often used for its health benefits.
decoding
Bentonite has excellent nutritional value. It is known to provide a variety of minerals, including calcium, magnesium, silica, copper, iron, sodium, and potassium. These minerals in bentonite quickly create a strong electrical charge when dissolved in water.
Because of its negative charge, bentonite clay attracts positively charged substances. This is a process called “adsorption.” Toxins such as pesticides, mold, and other impurities often carry a positive charge. This is why bentonite is a common ingredient in toothpaste for teeth whitening, face masks, and skin care.
But since then is Consuming bentonite clay, an effective binder, may be helpful in your detoxification plan. It actually seems to work. Here are some examples:
- Aflatoxin: Aflatoxin is a toxic compound produced by certain molds. They can grow in water-damaged buildings and contaminate foods such as grains. Exposure to these molds can cause serious health problems. The good news is that bentonite can bind to aflatoxin and help remove it from the body.
- Pesticides: Bentonite clay can help bind pesticides that enter the body through food, water, or the environment. Paraquat is one of the most widely used herbicides in the world and one of the most toxic. Bentonite clay is known as paraquat binder.
- Heavy metals: In animal studies, bentonite clay appears to be effective in binding toxic metals, including lead, copper, and cadmium.
Bentonite clay can help, but it is only one piece of the puzzle for reducing exposure to toxins. It is also important to eat organic foods, use water filters, and avoid contact with toxins.
Constipation relief
Bentonite may help address certain digestive issues, such as IBS, where constipation predominates. When ingested, bentonite clay swells and forms a gel-like substance. The added bulk stimulates the intestinal muscles, creating “peristalsis.” It helps move waste through the intestines more easily.
The detoxifying properties of bentonite clay may help remove toxins from the digestive tract. By supporting gut health, these cleansing effects can also help relieve constipation. However, it is important to be careful about how much you use. Consuming too much or not enough water can make constipation worse.
soothing stomach ulcers
Consuming bentonite clay may help form a protective coating in your stomach. The intestinal wall can protect the area of the ulcer from further irritation by stomach acid. It may also help reduce inflammation and promote healing. Some people find that their ulcers improve. However, it is recommended that you check with your doctor before adding bentonite to your treatment plan.
skin health
Although it’s not a direct internal benefit, improving gut health with bentonite clay can sometimes lead to clearer skin. It is well known that digestive problems and toxins can cause skin problems such as acne and eczema.
Bentonite Clay for Internal Use
The FDA has classified bentonite clay as “generally recognized as safe” (GRAS) for internal use. They just don’t approve it to treat specific diseases. As previously mentioned, bentonite clay can be very effective for detoxification and digestive support.
It is recommended that you consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, especially if you have an underlying medical condition. It may also interfere with certain medications. To ensure safe consumption internally, make sure your bentonite clay source is food grade. It must also be tested and found to have low lead content.
Potential Side Effects of Internal Bentonite Clay
Bentonite clay may cause side effects in certain people, especially if not used properly. Here are some symptoms and concerns to be aware of:
- constipation: Bentonite clay can absorb water from your digestive tract. Therefore, if not consumed with enough water, it may lead to constipation.
- Other digestive disorders: In clinical trials, people who took bentonite for two weeks experienced gas, bloating, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. But those people were only 10% of the people who took part in the study. Other participants had no problems and it didn’t matter whether they consumed 1.5 or 3 grams per day.
- Nutritional deficiencies: If consumed in excess, bentonite can bind to vitamins and minerals in the digestive tract. Over time, it can interfere with absorption and cause nutritional deficiencies, especially key electrolytes. However, at normal doses (up to 3 g), nutrient absorption was not reduced.
- Heavy metal contamination: Some bentonite clay products contain trace amounts of heavy metals such as lead, arsenic, and mercury. Consuming contaminated clay can cause serious health problems over time.
Minimize your risk by purchasing food-grade bentonite clay and following recommended dosages.
How to Take Bentonite Clay Internally
Bentonite is easy to incorporate into your daily routine. A typical dosage is ½ to 1 teaspoon of bentonite clay powder in a glass of water once a day. However, some clinical trials have used up to 3 grams daily. It’s a great way to start every day.
Take this at least 1 hour before taking other supplements or medications as it may be less effective. It is also important to drink plenty of water when taking bentonite clay internally. Without enough water, bentonite can dry out and cause constipation.
Where to get bentonite clay for interior use – you can find Pharmaceutical Grade Bentonite Clay The lead content is low here.
conclusion
I love a good DIY bentonite clay mask or detox bath, but I also appreciate that I can take bentonite clay internally. This is a great natural support for detoxification and promoting a healthy digestive system. As a side effect, it can also improve your skin health from the inside out.
Do you use bentonite clay internally? Was this helpful? Please share below!?
