Bentonite Benefits
Bentonite or montmorillonite is a mineral that can be found in therapeutic clay. There may be little or no scientific evidence that bentonite benefits us when used for diseases or colon cleansing, but its long history may suggest otherwise. When consumed, it has been known to temporarily increase blood pressure, and constipation is sometimes a side effect. Always consult your physician before eating bentonite clay.
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Function
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Bentonite clay forms from aged volcanic ash and includes minerals such as calcium and potassium. It has a strong, distinctive negative ionic charge, when hydrated, which works as a magnet for positively charged ions. In the human body, metals, bacteria and toxins are positively charged.
Bentonite is sold commercially in powders, liquid and capsule form as supplements. For topical applications it is also sold as a mask or a mud pack.
Detoxification
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The act of ingesting clay has no scientific evidence to support its use for detoxification but has been used for centuries in many cultures. Bentonite clay cannot be absorbed by the body, but because of its ability to attract positive ions, is thought to bind with toxins and other harmful substances to encourage them to be expelled from the body. Bentonite clay is used as the active ingredient in many colon-cleansing products. The Cancer Natural Therapy Foundation suggests mixing one part clay to 10 parts water. For example, 1 oz. powdered clay mixed with 10 oz. of water can serve as part of a body-cleansing regiment.
Small wounds and abrasions that cause irritation can sometimes be treated with a bentonite clay poultice by making a paste, which is left on the wound for a brief time to draw out the infection.
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Digestive Benefits
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Bentonite is also associated with aiding in constipation, bloating and gas. In a study by Digestive Tract Research Group, sufferers of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) found relief from pain and discomfort when bentonite was taken orally. Other digestive bentonite benefit uses throughout history include treatment of dysentery and bacterial food poisoning, and acting as a laxative, according to the Singapore Medical Journal, and an antidote for metal poisoning. Before using bentonite clay for the mentioned digestive benefits, consult your physician.
Cosmetic Benefits
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Bentonite is commonly used in commercial beauty products as a binding agent. Many natural beauty recipes exist for deep cleansing facial masks and as a remedy for dark circles. Clay masks are also used for the control of acne due to its ability to draw out dirt and toxins from the pores. Other bentonite benefits for cosmetic uses include skin exfoliate, treatment for cellulite, wrinkles, eczema and blemishes.
Clay Baths
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Clay baths draw toxins from the skin and through the pores. Add 2 cups of bentonite clay to your bath once a week and soak for 20 minutes. For heavy metal detoxification, the clay is used in higher concentrations. Clay baths are used in high-end spas for skin rejuvenation and cleansing.
Other Uses
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Today, and all through history, bentonite is claimed to have "1,000 uses," and many of them are in the pharmaceutical industry and various other industries. Bentonite has been used or is still used in soap, mechanical lubricant, roofing sealant, cat litter, candy, yogurt and to clarify wine.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit Ryan Harvey/flickr.com
