How to Use Charcoal As an Effective Antidote For Poison
Activated charcoal is an effective remedy for counteracting the effects of ingested poisons. It absorbs irritants in the stomach and intestines, which make it useful for other conditions, as well, such as diarrhea, indigestion and intestinal gas. Always contact a poison control center before treating a person who has been poisoned, or before trying to remedy a poisoning yourself. Each chemical or irritant is different.
Other People Are Reading
Things You'll Need
- Activated charcoal (found at most natural health stores or pharmacies).
Instructions
-
-
1
Only use this remedy if recommended by your poison control center, and only if the person who has ingested a poison is awake and able to swallow. If the charcoal is in a capsule form, the person may need to take 15 to 20 capsules for first aid, depending upon the toxicity of the ingested poison and the quantity taken. If the charcoal is in liquid form, follow the recommendations of the poison control center.
-
2
Activated charcoal in liquid form is a black drink. Have the person swallow the liquid as soon as possible after ingesting the poisoning. Because the type of poison, the size of the person and the time since ingestion all are factored into how much and how often to take the charcoal, it is recommended that treatment be given in accordance with the recommendations of a poison control center or local emergency room.
-
-
3
Even if using activated charcoal as an antidote for poisoning, it is a good idea to get the person to an emergency room as soon as possible for follow-up care. This is particularly important when dealing with child poisoning.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
You can use activated charcoal for insect bites by adding baking soda to the liquid to form a paste and applying it to the bite area.
Be sure to drink plenty of water if using activated charcoal for intestinal irritations, as it can cause constipation.
Activated charcoal, which is used for poisoning, is not the same as the charcoal in your BBQ pit. Do not attempt to make your own charcoal remedy. Purchase medical grade charcoal and keep it handy for emergencies, such as poisoning, as well as treatment for minor intestinal irritants.
Poisoning of any kind is a serious condition, especially for children. If you, or someone you know, has ingested a known poison, call your local poison control center before administering any treatment. As with any medical emergency, if the person has difficulty breathing, or loses consciousness, activate your EMS (Emergency Medical System) by dialing 911.
Do not give activated charcoal if the poisoning agent is a strong acid or alkali. Such agents may cause burning of the stomach, and giving charcoal can interfere with the ability of a doctor to see the lining of the stomach during an exam. Use only on the recommendation of the poison control center or emergency room.
