Bentonite in Detoxification
Bentonite, also known as montmorillonite, is a type of clay formed from the ash of volcanoes. This clay is highly absorbent, and when taken internally it acts as a laxative, soaking up water in the large intestine Bentonite is also adsorbent, attracting proteins, fats and oils. These molecules cling to the surface of the clay as it passes through the colon before being expelled as waste.
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History
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Bentonite and clay have been used as natural remedies for thousands of years. Ancient Greek physician Galen records using clay to heal sick animals and wrote about the benefits of clay therapy. It was used in Mesopotamia and by the ancient Egyptians, and evidence suggests medicinal clay goes back to prehistoric times.
The official name for eating clay is geophasia, and it's a popular treatment. In America, Appalachian women often ate clay to help with morning sickness and stomach ailments. The World Health Organization is investigating the use of clay to cure ulcers, and NASA has experimented with the effect of eating clay in zero-gravity.
Uses
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Bentonite is an edible clay used as a natural detoxification agent that clears toxins from the body, especially while a patient is using a cleansing diet. During detoxification, the body releases toxins stored in tissues and fat. Bentonite will adsorb the toxins and whisk them out of the body so that the toxins are not reabsorbed in the intestinal tract.
Bentonite can help remove heavy metals, pesticides, herbicides and environmental toxins in addition to natural toxins. In addition to its use as part of an overall detoxification program, bentonite can also be helpful for colon problems, constipation, irritable bowel syndrome and bloating.
Bentonite can also be used as skin clarifying agent. Cleopatra used clay as a beauty aid, and it's an ingredient in Clearasil and other over-the-counter acne medications, helping to clear pores.
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Directions for Use
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Bentonite is available as a liquid, powder, or capsules and is taken internally. Mix 1 tbsp. of bentonite powder in oz. of water or juice, then drink. Drink plenty of clear fluids, but take on an empty stomach.
Bentonite is often packaged with psyllium husks, an herbal laxative, and sold as a colon detoxification blend. Follow the direction on the package.
Take bentonite at least an hour before taking any vitamins or supplements Don't take bentonite with meals, because it could interfere with nutrient absorption. Wait at least two hours after eating before using bentonite. Drink plenty of water when using bentonite for best effect.
Safety
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Bentonite has a GRAS rating from the FDA, meaning it is generally regarded as safe and can be used as a food additive. Canada has declared that it is "not likely to be bioaccumulative," because bentonite passes through the body and is not absorbed. The Material Data Safety Sheet notes that eating a lot of bentonite powder may cause stomach irritation, and the dry powder can irritate skin.
Warnings
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Bentonite powder can be harmful if inhaled, and will also cause eye irritation.
Women who are pregnant and nursing should not use detoxification products, although bentonite is used by pregnant women as a calcium supplement and to reduce nausea.
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