The benefits of bentonite clay have largely been forgotten in recent decades .
Yet many ancient cultures have used this clay throughout history, particularly for its nutrients.
But recently, bentonite clay has regained popularity thanks to internal and external detoxification uses, and with good reason.
Why ? Because thanks to its many properties, they help the body to get rid of toxins.
Bentonite is also called montmorillonite. It is one of the most effective and powerful healing clays.
It can be used externally in the form of a clay poultice, mud or even in a bath. It is used in many skincare recipes.
To recognize a good quality bentonite clay, just look at its color. Good quality bentonite should be a grey/cream color. And anything approaching pure white is suspect.
Bentonite is also very fine. It offers a velvety sensation, is odorless and does not stain.
It is made up of old volcanic ash. Its name comes from the largest known deposit of bentonite located at Fort Benton in Wyoming in the United States. Other deposits are found in Texas and Utah.
Bentonite is a unique clay due to its ability to produce an "electric charge" when hydrated. When in contact with a fluid, its electrical components change, giving it the ability to absorb toxins.
It is thus known for its ability to absorb and eliminate toxins, heavy metals, impurities and chemicals.
According to specialists, "Bentonite is a clay that swells quickly. When it mixes with water, it acts like a very porous sponge. This is when toxins are attracted by electrical attraction. Once in this kind of sponge, they are inseparable."
Bentonite clay carries a strong negative charge that binds to the positive charge found in many toxins. When it comes into contact with a toxin, whether chemical or heavy metal, the clay will absorb the toxin.
It releases its minerals in the body which can then benefit from it. Bentonite also helps supply cells with oxygen. Because it absorbs excess hydrogen and thus allows the cells to replace it with oxygen.
Bentonite clay is an ingredient often found in detox and cleansing products. When taken correctly, it has an alkalizing effect on the body. It can help the bacteria in the intestine to maintain a good balance.
The health benefits of bentonite clay are manifold. It allows in particular:
- fight against digestive disorders such as acid reflux, constipation, bloating, gas, etc. Know that kaolin clay was at the time an ingredient commonly present in medicines such as Maalox or Rolaids.
It also allows:
- improve skin problems and allergies
- supply the body with minerals
- accelerate healing in case of vomiting and diarrhea
- to detoxify the body
- to make oral care preparations
- to cure a large number of skin problems.
Bentonite clay has a high concentration of minerals, including silica, calcium, magnesium, sodium, iron and potassium.
Dr. Weston A Price, in his book "Nutrition and Physical Degeneration" reported that several indigenous cultures, especially in the Andes, Central Africa and Australia used to consume clay in different ways.
Most often, the dried clay was transported in the form of small balls in bags. It was dissolved in small amounts in water at mealtimes to prevent poisoning.
In a study conducted by Arizona State University in the United States, bentonite clay was shown to be very effective in killing MRSA as well as salmonella, E.Coli and other bacteria .
What shows particular promise in further research in this area is how the clay kills the infection. It seems that no resistance can be developed by MRSA or other bacteria, as is the case with antibiotics.
Bentonite clay is a go-to ingredient in my home remedies.
I use it regularly for me, my husband and my children, internally and externally, to solve various health concerns.
Now let's discover all the uses of bentonite clay:
For external use, I apply a paste made of bentonite clay and water to any form of skin irritation.
It can be small imperfections, insect bites, cuts, itchy spots or burns.
I leave until it is dry and I rinse. Its action is known to be particularly soothing for itchy skin due to eczema, psoriasis, chickenpox, etc.
Bentonite clay also works very well in poultices for the skin. Especially for bites, burns and cuts.
For this, I make a poultice by putting a thick layer of clay on the skin on which I apply a gauze or a damp cloth.
I wrap the area and let the poultice act. I change it every 2 hours.
To have smooth and healthy facial skin, I make a paste with bentonite and water. I apply it on my face like a mask.
Be aware that this type of mask is used in many spas (overpriced!). At home, it's the same efficiency but much cheaper.
For this clay mask to be effective, I leave it on for 20 minutes and rinse. I usually do this once or twice a week.
Bentonite clay removes sebum from oily hair. It makes them supple and shiny. To achieve this result, simply mix 2 tablespoons of clay in 1/2 cup of water, rose or lavender water.
Let stand for 1 hour. Then apply the paste to the hairline. Rub gently. Leave on for 20 mins. Then spread over the entire length of the hair.
Wait 10 mins. Then rinse thoroughly. Make a conditioner to soften your hair.
For a detoxifying and relaxing action, I add about 1/4 cup of bentonite to my bath.
In addition, this bath with bentonite clay softens the skin, it is super pleasant.
Because of its excellent ability to absorb heavy metals and toxins and also because it provides minerals, I mix bentonite clay into my homemade toothpaste powder.
It can even be used alone for brushing. It is tasteless and without particular consistency.
Bentonite clay also has the power to whiten and remineralize teeth.
In addition to using it in my toothpaste powder, I mix bentonite with water to make an alkalizing and anti-toxin mouthwash.
For this, I mix 1/2 teaspoon of clay in 1/4 cup of water in a small glass jar with a plastic lid. I shake well.
Then I rinse my mouth with it for 1-2 minutes. I repeat the operation until I have used everything.
To cure mastitis, here is my home remedy. I make a poultice or mask of bentonite and water.
I apply it around the painful area. I start again, every hour if necessary until the infection disappears.
When infected, I also take it internally along with vitamin C and fermented cod liver oil.
Bentonite clay is a soothing baby powder. It can be used when there is irritation or redness.
It can also be used as a mask to help speed healing in the irritated area.
During the 1st trimester of my pregnancy, I took 1/2 teaspoon of bentonite in water. Why ? Because it allowed me to ward off morning sickness.
It really helped me deal with the nausea and feel better every day. When I saw my midwife, she said it was good to have some.
Still, ask your doctor or health care professional for permission before using this remedy during pregnancy.
To improve digestion, I drink a cup of water with 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of bentonite almost daily.
I mix the 2 in a glass jar with a plastic lid and shake to mix it well.
It helps digestion and I feel like it gives me more energy during the day.
I have also noticed that my nails and hair are growing faster.
For sick animals that are vomiting or showing signs of illness, you can add bentonite to their water.
You can also mix it with water and give it orally with a dropper or syringe without a needle.
I have seen several cases where it has helped animals recover quickly from illnesses that could have had serious consequences.
Although I haven't needed it personally, I have read that bentonite and other healing clays are used internally to help reduce radiation exposure for alternative cancer treatments. /P>
It is also said to help eliminate parasites, although I have not personally tried it.
For external use, I get some here:it remains a natural and inexpensive remedy.
But you can often find them in organic stores, pharmacies or specialty health food stores.
You can also get clay here.
In any case, for internal use, make sure that the clay you take is properly labeled "safe for internal use".
Do not let bentonite clay come into contact with anything metal. Because it would reduce its effectiveness.
I always mix it with water in a glass jar with a plastic lid, shaking well or using a plastic whisk.
If you are taking it internally, do not eat anything for at least an hour after taking it for best results.
And do not take any medications or dietary supplements for 2 hours as they may reduce the effectiveness of its action.
Of course, always check with your doctor if you have any medical restrictions before using it.
