Not only do you apply the mud to your face, you also brush your teeth and drink it. Does this seem crazy? I’m talking about bentonite clay!
Bentonite clay is derived from volcanic ash and is often used to detoxify the body. It is also called Montmorillonite clay because it was first discovered in Montmorillon, France. Bentonite is used topically to soothe skin problems such as dermatitis and poison ivy. However, due to its toxin-binding ability, it is also used as a treatment for cleansing and overall health.
What is bentonite antidote used for?
I love bentonite in my detox baths, but sometimes I also take it internally. Whether used internally or externally, calcium bentonite clay is a key natural remedy for detoxification. But can clay really detoxify your body? Yes. It attracts toxins and impurities like a magnet through a process called adsorption.
Studies have shown that some of the benefits of bentonite clay for detoxification include:
- Environmental toxicity: Bentonite clay helps your body eliminate environmental toxins, such as chemicals you absorb from the air, water, and food. Pesticides and herbicides are everywhere these days. Bentonite can bind many herbicides, including paraquat, one of the most toxic herbicides.
- Metal Toxicity: Bentonite detox baths can help draw out heavy metals through the skin. Studies show it may help remove lead and cadmium from soil. However, taking food grade bentonite internally may be even more helpful.
- Mold toxicity: Bentonite can also bind certain mycotoxins, such as aflatoxin and ochratoxin. These toxins are produced by mold that grows on water-damaged buildings and foods such as grains. Detox baths and taking bentonite internally may help with mold toxicity.
- Bacterial infections: Bentonite clay also has antibacterial properties, which is one of the reasons it is used in toothpaste. In one case, bentonite clay combined with probiotics and black seed oil helped eliminate a C. difficile infection in a 2-year-old girl.
How to Use Bentonite Clay to Detox
Many people prefer to start topically when using bentonite clay for detox. Here’s how to use it:
locally
Bentonite clay can absorb toxins and impurities when used topically in baths or skin care. You can use it as a clay mask, detox bath, or even a hair detox.
One way is to enjoy a detox foot bath with bentonite clay and Epsom salt on a regular basis. This is a great way to have a spa experience at home. You can even apply a clay mask while soaking! Here are some basic (3 ingredient) DIY face masks you can try: Or, in the fall, they even have a pumpkin spice version!
Essential oils can be a great addition to a bentonite clay mask like this one. Tea tree and lavender are an excellent cleansing combination. But actually, you can use any of your favorite skincare essential oils. Geranium and frankincense are known to nourish the skin. Leave the mask on for 15-20 minutes and rinse with warm water.
For a bentonite clay bath, add 1 to 2 cups of bentonite clay powder to a bathtub of warm bath water. The magnesium and other minerals in bentonite may provide additional health benefits. Add essential oils to increase the “ahhh” effect!
internally
So how much bentonite clay should you drink to detox? For internal use, the general recommendation is 1/2 to 1 teaspoon in 8 to 16 ounces of water daily. Some studies have used 3 grams daily without problems.
Start with smaller amounts (about 1/2 teaspoon) to see how your body reacts. If there is no problem, you can increase it to 1 teaspoon. After mixing the clay thoroughly, let it sit for a few minutes before drinking to prevent it from clumping.
Drink it first thing in the morning or a few hours after a meal. If possible, it is best to take it on an empty stomach and away from other supplements or medications. Stay hydrated when taking bentonite internally.
How long does it take?
The time it takes for bentonite clay to detoxify the body can vary greatly from person to person. It depends on how you use it, how toxic it is, and what type of health problem you are dealing with.
For internal use, some people see effects within a few days. After a week, you may notice better digestion or increased energy. However, complete detoxification may take several months. This is especially true when dealing with environmental toxins and heavy metals. It is common to use bentonite daily for several weeks and then take breaks. This gives your body time to cleanse and recover.
For topical applications such as clay masks or detox baths, the effects are fairly immediate. My skin felt rejuvenated after just one clay mask or bath. However, the greatest benefits will be achieved with regular use over time.
How long can I safely use bentonite clay to detox?
You can safely detox from bentonite in short cycles, but the duration depends on how you use it.
For internal use, it can generally be used over 1 to 4 weeks. This allows the body to cleanse itself without overloading the system. You may then want to take a break for a few weeks to prevent mineral imbalances or digestive issues.
For external applications such as masks, foot baths, baths or wraps, it may be used more frequently, 1 to 3 times per week. There is little risk of abuse in that way.
I do not recommend taking bentonite clay consistently over a long period of time. But that’s the case in most cases. Because clay absorbs/adsorbs other substances, it can lead to deficiencies or bind other supplements.
Potential side effects of detoxing with bentonite clay
There aren’t many downsides to bentonite clay. This is especially true when used sparingly, such as as an antidote. The digestive system is the body system most likely to cause symptoms.
- constipation: Bentonite clay can cause constipation because it can absorb water from the digestive tract. The solution is to increase hydration.
- different digestive problems: Some people may experience gas and bloating from taking bentonite, but this is not common. People with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) have found positive benefits from taking this medication.
- Nutritional deficiencies: In some people, taking bentonite long-term may cause certain nutritional deficiencies. However, studies have shown that consuming up to 3 grams daily did not reduce nutrient absorption.
Low-quality bentonite clay may contain lead, arsenic, and mercury. So make sure to buy from a reputable brand.
Who Can Do a Bentonite Clay Detox (and Who Should Avoid It)?
The FDA has classified bentonite clay as “generally recognized as safe” (GRAS) for most people. However, if you are taking medication, you should consult a healthcare professional first as clay may interfere with absorption. It should be taken at least a few hours away from medications and supplements.
Breastfeeding, pregnant, and breastfeeding women should seek medical advice when considering any type of detox. It may be a better idea to wait until your baby is weaned before stimulating the detoxification pathways. However, unlike other detoxifiers that allow the body to release freely roaming toxins into the body, bentonite adsorbs and immobilizes toxins in its matrix. This allows them to be removed without potentially negative effects on other body systems.
Children usually need to take only one-quarter of the adult dose.
conclusion
Bentonite is a healing clay that is often overlooked as a home remedy. Bentonite clay is an excellent treatment for diaper rash and eczema, but there are many other uses for it. It is an excellent addition to any detox regimen, both internally and externally. Bentonite is a versatile ingredient that I always have in my home medicine cabinet and kitchen counter.
this bentonite clay brands Great for both interior and exterior use.
Do you use bentonite clay to detox? How do I use it? Please share below!
