Not just me I wipe mud from my facebut I brush my teeth with it and drink it too. Sound crazy? I mean bentonite clay!
Bentonite clay it is derived from volcanic ash and is often used to detoxify the body. People first discovered it in Montmorillon, France, so it is also called montmorillonite clay. Bentonite is used topically to soothe skin problems such as dermatitis and poison ivy. However, its toxic binding abilities also make it a suitable remedy for cleansing and general well-being.
What is a Bentonite detox used for?
I like bentonite in detox baths, but sometimes I also take it internally. Whether used internally or externally, calcium bentonite clay is a premier natural remedy for detoxification. But can mud really detoxify the body? Yes, through a process called adsorption, where it attracts toxins and impurities like a magnet.
Research shows several benefits of bentonite clay for detoxification:
- Environmental toxicity: Bentonite clay can help the body eliminate environmental toxins such as chemicals we inhale from the air, water and food. Pesticides and herbicides are everywhere these days. Bentonite can bind many of these, including paraquat, one of the most toxic herbicides.
- Toxicity of metals: Detox baths with bentonite can help draw out heavy metals through the skin. Research shows it can help remove lead and cadmium from soil. However, taking food grade betonite internally can be even more beneficial.
- Mold toxicity: Bentonite can also bind certain mold toxins such as aflatoxins and ochratoxins. These toxins are produced by mold that grows in water-damaged buildings and in foods such as grains. Both detox baths and taking bentonite internally can help with mold toxicity.
- Bacterial infections: Betonite clay also has antibacterial properties, which is one reason why it is used in toothpaste. In one case, bentonite clay combined with probiotics and black seed oil helped clear a C. difficile infection in a 2-year-old girl.
How to use bentonite clay for detoxification
Many people prefer to start topically when it comes to using bentonite clay for detoxification. Here's how to use it.
Locally
Bentonite clay can absorb toxins and impurities when used topically in a bath or skin care. You can use it as a clay mask, detox bath, or even hair detox.
One way is to regularly enjoy one detox foot soak with bentonite clay and Epsom salt. It's a great way to give yourself a spa experience in your own home. You can even apply a mud mask while diving! Here's a base (3-ingredient) DIY face mask you can try. Or, for fall, there is one pumpkin spice version!
Essential oils can be a wonderful addition to a bentonite clay mask as well this. Tea tree and lavender make a great cleansing combination. But you can really use any of your favorite essential oils for skin care. Geranium and frankincense are known to nourish the skin. Leave the mask on for 15 to 20 minutes and rinse with warm water.
For one bentonite clay bathadd 1 to 2 cups of bentonite clay powder to a bathtub filled with warm bath water. Magnesium and other minerals in bentonite may provide additional health benefits. Add essential oils to increase the “ahhh” effect!
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So how much bentonite clay should you drink for detoxification? For internal use, the general recommendation is 1/2 to 1 teaspoon in 8 to 16 ounces of water per day. Some studies have used 3 grams per day without any problems.
Start with a smaller amount (about 1/2 teaspoon) to see how your body reacts. You can increase it to 1 teaspoon if you don't notice anything. Mix the mud thoroughly and let it sit for a few minutes before drinking to avoid clumping.
Drink it first thing in the morning or a few hours after eating. You just want to take it on an empty stomach and away from supplements and other medications if possible. Be sure to stay hydrated when taking bentonite internally.
How long does it take?
The time it takes bentonite clay to detoxify the body can vary greatly from person to person. It depends on how you use it, how toxic you are and what kind of health issues you have.
For internal use, some people notice effects within a few days. They may have better digestion or increased energy after a week. However, a complete detox can take months, especially when dealing with environmental toxins and heavy metals. It is common to use bentonite every day for a few weeks, and then take a break. This gives the body time to cleanse and restore itself.
For topical use, such as mud masks and detox baths, the effects are quite immediate. I notice my skin feels rejuvenated after just a clay mask or a bath. However, using it regularly over time is likely to bring you the greatest benefits.
How long can you safely use bentonite clay to detox?
You can safely use bentonite to detoxify in short-term cycles, but how long depends on how you use it.
For internal use, you can generally use it for a period of 1 to 4 weeks. This allows the body to cleanse itself without overloading the system. You may then want to take a break for a few weeks to prevent any mineral imbalances or digestive issues.
For external use, as masks, wet feetbaths, or even wraps, you can use more often, like 1 to 3 times a week. There is not much risk in using it this way.
I do not recommend taking bentonite clay continuously for the long term. But that's the case for most things. Because clay absorbs/absorbs other substances, it is possible that it can lead to deficiencies or bind other supplements.
Possible side effects of detoxification with betonite clay
There aren't many downsides to betonite clay – especially when used occasionally as a detox. The digestive system is the body system most likely to cause symptoms.
- Constipation: Because bentonite clay can absorb water in the digestive tract, it can be constipating. The solution is to increase your hydration.
- Others Digestive issues: Some people may experience gas and bloating from taking bentonite, but it is not common. Those with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) have even noticed positive benefits from taking it.
- Lack of nutrients: In some people, taking bentonite for a long time may lead to safety lack of nutrients. However, in research, taking up to 3 grams per day did not reduce nutrient absorption.
Poor quality bentonite clay may contain lead, arsenic and mercury. So make sure you buy from a reputable brand.
Who Can Do a Bentonite Clay Detox (Who Should Avoid It?)
The FDA has classified bentonite clay as “generally recognized as safe” (GRAS) for most people. However, because clay can interfere with absorption, those taking medications should first consult with a healthcare professional. At least a few hours should be taken away from medications and supplements.
Breastfeeding women and pregnant and lactating women should seek medical advice when considering any type of detox. It may be a better idea to wait until the baby is weaned before stimulating the detoxification pathways. However, unlike other detoxes that allow the body to release free-floating toxins into the body, bentonite absorbs and traps toxins in a matrix. This way they can be eliminated without potentially having a negative effect on other body systems.
Children can usually take it at a quarter of an adult's dose.
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Bentonite is an often overlooked healing clay as a home remedy. While it's a great remedy for diaper rash and eczema, there are many uses for bentonite clay. It is an excellent addition to a detoxification regimen, both internally and externally. Bentonite is a versatile ingredient that I like to have on hand in my home medicine cabinet and even on my kitchen counter.
it bentonite clay brand it is good for indoor and outdoor use.
Do you use bentonite clay for detoxification? How do you use it? Share with us below!
