Bentonite clay is a clay that is mined from the earth. It’s composed of volcanic ash that has weathered and aged in the presence of water. Bentonite clay, as well as other healing clays, are well known for their ability to heal and to help your body get rid of toxins.
But, how does it get rid of toxins?
Bentonite clay has a strong negative electromagnetic charge, and when it’s activated by water, it works like a magnet in and on our bodies. It pulls the metals and toxins into itself, therefore pulling all sorts of impurities, and chemicals.
Bentonite clay is a natural product with a number of uses around the home and to support health. With both internal and external uses, bentonite is helpful for soothing a number of ailments.
Taken internally, it can ease indigestion, infection, and heartburn. Externally, it can draw out infection from the skin, making it helpful for acne, insect stings and many other issues!
Recently, however, there have been warnings issued by governing agencies regarding different types of clay. So – why are these warnings present? What is the real risk?
The FSA warns that clay contains high levels of contaminants like lead and arsenic and that internal consumption should be avoided. Pregnant women, in particular are warned to avoid lead exposure, as it can cause birth defects. I personally like to play it safe and we don’t ingest it, however we do use it on our skin with excellent results.
The truth is that not all clays are the same: some are indeed unfit for internal consumption. It’s absolutely crucial to source a high quality, pure clay, especially if you plan to ingest.
How to chose a safe clay?
When choosing a clay supplement for either internal OR external use, there are a few criteria to consider:
- Does the clay have a high pH level of at least 8.7? The alkalinity of bentonite clay is what makes it effective and will be present in a pure, unadulterated clay source.
- Is the clay odorless and tasteless? Pure bentonite clay should be.
- Is the packaging professional? Some clay you can buy online comes in Ziploc bags, which is not necessarily bad itself but it does add a bit of risk when it comes to purity.
Is the clay gritty? High quality clay should be smooth and “clean” looking. - Is the company that sells the clay easy to contact and available to answer questions?
- Does the company that sells the clay offer mineral information and laboratory data related to the clay?
We personally only use Redmond Bentonite Clay in our homes but many of my friends also love and use this healing clay.
8 ways to use Bentonite Clay
Before you start using bentonite clay it is important that it doesn’t come in touch with anything metal since it will reduce its effectiveness. Always mix bentonite clay using plastic, silicone, wood or glass.
1. Address Skin Issues (Eczema, Dermatitis, and Psoriasis)
Bentonite clay is a popular remedy for skin issues like eczema, dermatitis, and psoriasis. When the clay is combined with water and then left on the specified area to dry, it binds the bacteria and toxins that are on the skin. This will assist in reducing any outbreaks of redness, blemishes, and allergens that might cause reactions.
My favorite way to use it is to put some on top of a zit, it draws out the impurities in just a few hours!
2. Reduce Toxins During Bath Use
The binding effect also helps to pull impurities from your pores. The clay can be used as a soaking liquid when added to bath water. As well as enjoying the detoxifying effects, your skin will feel smoother, softer, and less inflamed than it did before your bath.
Add 1/4 cup of bentonite clay to your bath and relax!
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3. Helps with Digestion Problems
Bentonite clay is able to help with digestive problems by neutralizing bacteria. The clay can be used as a form of relief for food-triggered indigestion as well. It’s also great when you’re feeling nauseous.
You can also give bentonite clay to your pets that are showing signs of nausea or vomiting.
Drink 1/2 teaspoon of Bentonite Clay diluted in a cup of water to aid digestion.
4. Clean Your Teeth and Gums
When used orally, the clay forms a bind with plaque, bacteria, and any harmful substances inside of the mouth. The clay prevents you from swallowing any unwanted substances before you get sick. Many DIY toothpaste recipes include bentonite clay, making it easy to use in your dental routine.
We mix 1/2 teaspoon of bentonite clay in approximately 1/4 cup of water and use it as a mouth wash.
5. Alternative for Baby Powder
If your babies do not react well to baby powder, the clay can be used as an alternative. The clay can be placed on any area that is experience redness or irritation to lessen the damage to the skin.
All you have to do is sprinkle some bentonite clay after cleaning your baby’s bum and before putting their diaper back on.
6. Increases Probiotics
The clay is able to give you a healthier “gut” by removing any toxins from the gut wall. This will ensure that “good bacteria” is occupying your gut area. A good balance of gut flora will put you in a more positive mood and improve your brain function.
If you ingest bentonite clay to remove the toxins, make sure you also consume a high quality probiotic like Thrive Probiotics. However, do not take both at once since the bentonite clay might absorb the probiotic properties – make sure you take them at least 4 hours apart.
7. Dry Shampoo
Bentonite clay is great for removing the extra greasy on your hair. It works even better than a store-bought dry shampoo.
All you have to do is sprinkle a bit of bentonite clay on your hairbrush and brush your hair. Make sure you get rid of the excess by brushing a few times.
8. Armpit Detox
Did you know that most of the time when your armpits are stinky it’s because they need a detox? This is my favorite way to use the clay.
Click here to find out why you should detox your armpit and to get our armpit detox recipe.
There you have it! Our favorite way to use Bentonite Clay. Is there any other you use bentonite clay? Let us know by leaving a comment down below.
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