Benefits of Bentonite Clay and How to Use It: In today’s world, many traditional remedies have been overshadowed by modern approaches. While we often recognize the benefits of essential oils, some ancient remedies remain less familiar and might even seem unusual. Bentonite clay is one such natural remedy that, despite its effectiveness, isn’t widely known.
Nature provides us with a wealth of natural therapies. For example, animals often consume dirt and clay to purge toxins from their bodies or to alleviate illness and stress. Taking inspiration from this natural behavior, bentonite clay could be a valuable tool for detoxification.
Over the last ten years, bentonite and other therapeutic clays have gained popularity. They offer numerous detoxification benefits, both for internal and external use. Given its healing properties, bentonite clay is a valuable addition to any natural medicine cabinet.
What Is Bentonite Clay?
Bentonite clay originates from weathered volcanic ash. The term “bentonite” is derived from the prominent deposit found in Fort Benton, Wyoming. Additionally, it is referred to as “Montmorillonite clay,” named after the Montmorillon region in France where it was first identified.
This clay is typically a grayish-cream color with a soft, fine texture and lacks any distinctive odor. Unlike many other clays, it does not leave stains and integrates smoothly into beauty treatments and natural remedies.
Rich in minerals such as silica, calcium, magnesium, sodium, iron, and potassium, bentonite clay excels in adsorbing and eliminating toxins, heavy metals, and impurities, making it a powerful natural remedy.
Where Is Bentonite Clay Found?
While approximately 70% of the world’s bentonite clay is sourced from Wyoming, it is also present in other U.S. states such as Montana, California, Arizona, and Colorado. Internationally, bentonite clay can be found in countries including Italy, Germany, Greece, and Japan, among others.
Is Bentonite Clay Safe For Humans?
Bentonite clay is generally deemed safe for use by humans. However, it is crucial to select a reputable food-grade brand, especially if you intend to use it internally. Some supplements may contain harmful heavy metals and have been subject to FDA bans. I recommend this particular brand for its quality and safety.
Benefits of Bentonite Clay
Bentonite clay offers a wide range of benefits, impacting everything from digestive health to detoxification and skin care. It’s an excellent addition to your wellness routine, enhancing everything from skin cleansing to breakout management, making it a valuable asset for your skincare regimen.
Key benefits of bentonite clay include:
- Digestive Health: Alleviates issues such as irritable bowel syndrome, acid reflux, constipation, bloating, and gas.
- Skin and Allergy Relief: Assists with skin conditions and allergies, including breakouts and dermatitis.
- Mineral Supplementation: Provides essential minerals needed for overall health.
- Recovery Aid: Supports recovery from vomiting and diarrhea.
- Detoxification: Aids in removing toxins from the body.
- Oral Health: Contributes to maintaining good oral hygiene.
In “Nutrition and Physical Degeneration,” Dr. Weston A. Price noted that various indigenous cultures consumed clay regularly. They would often carry pieces of dried clay and dissolve a small amount in water during meals to guard against potential toxins.
Detoxification with Bentonite Clay
Bentonite clay is notable for its unique ability to generate an “electrical charge” when it comes into contact with water. This hydration process alters its electrical properties, giving it a negative charge that attracts and binds with the positive charges found in many toxins.
When bentonite clay interacts with toxins, chemicals, or heavy metals, it absorbs them while simultaneously releasing its beneficial minerals into the body. Additionally, bentonite clay helps deliver oxygen to cells by pulling excess hydrogen away, allowing cells to replace it with oxygen.
Bentonite clay is highly effective for natural detoxification as it effectively binds to and removes toxins.
What Toxins Does Bentonite Clay Eliminate?
Bentonite clay’s binding properties make it adept at eliminating various toxins from the body, including heavy metals such as lead, copper, cadmium, mercury, and arsenic. It is also capable of removing T-2 mycotoxins, aflatoxins (which are cancer-causing agents), toxic pesticides, and contaminants found in food. Research on bentonite’s detoxifying abilities is well-documented.
Moreover, bentonite clay can help in eradicating harmful bacteria like MRSA. A study conducted by Arizona State University demonstrated that bentonite clay effectively killed MRSA, Salmonella, E. coli, and other bacteria. Interestingly, because bentonite clay kills bacteria in a different manner than antibiotics, it may not lead to antibiotic resistance.
Uses of Bentonite Clay
Bentonite clay is a versatile component of my natural medicine kit, and I use it regularly for a range of issues for both myself and my family. Its affordability and broad range of applications make it an excellent choice for home remedies.
Due to its detoxifying properties, bentonite clay is frequently found in products designed for cleansing and detoxification. When ingested, it has an alkalizing effect on the body and can help balance gut flora.
Skin and Allergy Applications
Bentonite clay’s high adsorbent capacity makes it effective for addressing various skin concerns. It can be applied to insect bites, cuts, burns, and blemishes. I typically mix it with water to form a paste, apply it to the affected area, let it dry, and then rinse it off. This method is particularly soothing for conditions like eczema, psoriasis, or chickenpox. For acne, it helps absorb excess oil and improve skin clarity.
For more severe skin issues, I prepare a poultice by applying a thick layer of clay to the skin, covering it with wet gauze or a cloth, and wrapping the area. I leave this on, changing it every two hours. This approach has even helped me with allergic reactions such as poison ivy.
When switching to natural deodorants, I use a bentonite clay and apple cider vinegar mixture to detoxify my armpits. This clay is also useful for detoxing hair.
Bentonite clay can be used as a soothing powder for diaper rash. Alternatively, making a clay mask can expedite recovery in affected areas.
During a bout of mastitis, I applied a bentonite clay poultice to the affected skin, repeating the process hourly until the infection subsided. I also took the clay internally to aid in my recovery.
Beauty and Skin Care Applications
Bentonite clay is a popular ingredient in DIY beauty and skin care products due to its ability to bind with and eliminate impurities. It is commonly used in cleansers, face masks, mud masks, soaps, and detox baths, helping to remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and deeply cleanse the skin.
For a smooth and radiant complexion, I create a bentonite clay mask by blending the clay with water to form a paste. I apply this mask for 20 minutes and then rinse it off with warm water. This routine, performed once or twice a week, is highly effective. A mixture of this clay powder and apple cider vinegar also serves as a great balancing face mask.
Incorporating clay into my homemade soap enhances its texture, giving it a silky feel. I also use it in facial cleansing bars, which are particularly beneficial for oily skin and acne.
For a detox bath, I add 1/4 cup of bentonite clay to the water, creating a soothing soak that softens the skin. On busy days, I opt for a detox foot bath instead.
Oral Health Applications
Bentonite clay is valued for its ability to bind heavy metals and toxins while providing essential minerals. I include it in my remineralizing tooth powder recipe and use it alone for brushing. Its flavor is neutral, and its texture is mild.
If you prefer a ready-made option, I recommend this clay-based toothpaste for travel. It’s a hit with the kids and ensures that we maintain our oral health routine even when we’re away from home.
Additionally, I use bentonite clay to make an alkalizing and toxin-removing mouth rinse. I mix 1/2 teaspoon of clay with 1/4 cup of water in a small jar, shake well, and rinse with the solution for 1-2 minutes, repeating until the jar is empty.
Internal Applications
It is effective for addressing various digestive issues such as IBS symptoms, nausea, constipation, and acid reflux. During early pregnancy, I used 1/2 teaspoon of it dissolved in water to help alleviate morning sickness, and it made a noticeable difference. Always consult with your healthcare provider before using it during pregnancy.
For internal detoxification, I incorporate 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of this clay into a cup of water most days. It assists in eliminating toxins from the body, improves digestion, and boosts my energy levels. I’ve also observed quicker growth in my hair and nails. Ensure that any bentonite clay used internally is labeled as safe for such use. This is the product we prefer.
While I haven’t personally used it for these purposes, it is reported to help reduce radiation exposure, aid in alternative cancer treatments, and combat MRSA infections. It is also said to assist in parasite removal, though I haven’t tested this.
If your pet is unwell or vomiting, you can give them bentonite clay. Add it to their water or mix it with water and administer it orally using a dropper. I’ve seen it help pets recover swiftly from conditions that could have been more severe.
Bentonite and Lead Concerns
It’s crucial to source bentonite clay from reputable suppliers due to potential lead contamination. Bentonite is a natural material derived from the earth and can contain trace elements, including lead. This is similar to how vegetables can have trace elements from the soil they grow in. You can find more details on this topic here.
While bentonite may contain small amounts of non-absorbable lead, it’s important to choose brands with minimal lead levels. The FDA has banned several brands due to elevated lead content. For instance, a 2016 FDA report advised against using a product called “Best Bentonite Clay” from Guthrie, Oklahoma, due to high lead levels.
I always advocate for thorough research, especially on issues like lead exposure. Based on my research, I’m confident in using it both externally and internally for my family. However, if you have any medical conditions, it’s best to consult your doctor before use.
Conclusion on Bentonite Clay
Bentonite clay offers extensive benefits, from improving skin health to aiding digestion and detoxification. Its affordability makes it a valuable addition to any wellness regimen and natural medicine cabinet. I highly recommend incorporating this ancient remedy into your health routine.