BENTONITE CLAY (FOOD GRADE)

PRODUCT INFORMATION

THE BENEFITS OF BENTONITE CLAY

Bentonite clay forms from volcanic ash. The theory is that bentonite clay adsorbs materials by sticking to their molecules or ions. As the clay leaves the body, it takes the toxin or other molecules with it.  When a person consumes the clay, it may adsorb toxins or other unwanted substances from the digestive tract. Bentonite clay contains natural minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and iron, which may provide additional benefits.  The following list looks at the benefits of bentonite clay and what the research says.

Removing toxins from the body

Some people ingest bentonite clay with the aim of removing toxins from the body. This may be one of its most well studied benefits.

Aiding weight loss

Bentonite clay may be a helpful supplement for people who are trying to lose weight.  One study in rats found that ingesting a montmorillonite clay product helped reduce weight gain among those eating a high-fat diet.

Relieving constipation

Because bentonite clay can stick to toxins, it may be helpful for regulating a person’s digestive tract.  One review of the benefits of bentonite clay has suggested that the clay may help some people who have irritable bowel syndrome with constipation.

Treating diarrhea

Some research suggests that adsorbent clays such as bentonite may help alleviate virus-related digestive issues, such as diarrhea. For example, rotavirus can cause severe diarrhea and spreads easily from person to person. One study found that an adsorbent clay called diosmectite helped stop rotavirus from replicating.

Treating diaper rash

Bentonite clay was effective in treating diaper rash in one study.  Around 93% of the infants who received the clay had improved rashes within 6 hours, with 90% completely healed in 3 days. Another study had similar positive results.

Removing lead and other heavy metals

Excessive exposure to heavy metals such as lead can cause health problems. Children’s brains are especially sensitive to lead, and it can cause learning disabilities and other issues.  According to some research, bentonite clay may be helpful in removing some lead from the body.

Bentonite clay has a negative charge, meaning that it can bind to positively charged metals such as lead. One study found that bentonite clay was effective at removing lead from wastewater.

Treating oily skin and acne

Bentonite clay’s adsorbent power may be helpful in treating acne breakouts and oily skin. The clay can help remove sebum, or oil, from the skin’s surface, and it may also have a calming effect on inflamed breakouts.  Using a clay face mask can help remove impurities from the skin to treat acne or reduce the risk of pimples and skin infections.

Detoxifying the skin

Some people use bentonite clay to cleanse specific parts of their body like the armpits and feet.

How to use

Mix up to 1 teaspoon (tsp) of bentonite clay with 6–8 ounces (oz) of purified water and drink once per day.

Take bentonite clay at least 2 hours before or after taking any medications. Because it can adsorb other molecules, bentonite clay may bind to some medications and reduce their effectiveness.