Benefits of Bentonite Clay

The name 'bentonite clay' has been derived from the place, Fort Benton, Wyoming; where the clay was first identified. Bentonite clay is an internal cleanser and a detoxifying agent. It removes all the toxic agents and wastes from the body. This clay has been used by over 200 cultures throughout the world. It is formed by the effect of weathering on volcanic ash in presence of water. This medicinal clay is an absorbent aluminum phyllosilicate. It is the commmercial name for montmotillonite, and comes in the from of a tasteless grey gel, powder or capsule. It is generally consumed in its solid and liquid forms. Clay expert, Ran Knishinsky, in his book, 'The Clay Cure' (Healing Arts Press, 1998), quotes "I have been eating dirt every day for the past six years". This article describes the benefits of bentonite clay and it's effective healing qualities.

Bentonite Clay Health Benefits

When taken orally, liquid bentonite cleans the internal systems by detoxifying the toxic agents (free radicals, herbicides, intestinal parasites, pesticides and even pathogenic viruses). For effective colon cleansing regimen, bentonite clay is an ideal medicine. The most suitable time for drinking this liquid is one hour before meals or immediately after meals. For improving the taste, it can be taken with juice or applesauce.

Being inert or chemically inactive, liquid bentonite does not get digested or absorbed by the gastrointestinal tract, and so remains unchanged. So, when it passes through the intestinal tract, it binds the positively charged toxins and absorbs them. The bentonite clay takes the form of a sponge-like structure when it expands on absorbing water. So, all the toxins are attracted towards this sponge magnetically, and eventually the bentonite is drained out from the body, along with the toxins bound to its multiple surfaces. This hydrated clay fixes free oxygen in the blood stream and increases the T-cell count (T-cells are a type of lymphocytes that are an important part of the body's defense mechanisms).

Other than removing bacterial, organic and non-organic toxicity, the liquid clay also gives relief from heartburn, hay fever, allergy and anemia. Regular use of liquid bentonite clay, has shown significant results in curing several disorders like diarrhea, constipation, indigestion, ulcers, etc. Clearer complexion, brighter and whiter eyes, improved presence of mind and reduction in emotional stress, repair of tissues' wear and tear and improved bowel movements, are some of the amazing healing capabilities of this clay. It raises the body's elimination level and supports organ functions, thereby strengthening the immune system.

Bentonite clay can also be used externally on skin for curing acne and skin rashes. It also helps in soothing muscle damage, carpel tunnel, bruises, cuts and wounds. Other skin ailments like eczema, psoriasis, bacterial and fungal infections can also be addressed, by applying a bentonite clay pack to the affected area of the skin. It's an active ingredient in personal care products like facial creams, body lotions, anti-irritants, cleansers, cosmetic and other pharmaceutical products as well.

Cautionary Advice

Intake of bentonite clay or it's products is not recommended for expecting mothers and aged people. Being a powerful and effective substance, there are specific times when it should not be taken; like two-three hours prior to taking any other medicines or supplements.

Other Uses of Bentonite Clay

Ponds, ditches, dams and lagoons are sealed using bentonite sealants. It is also used to prevent toxins and waste from contaminating the soil, and treating waste and polluted water. Other than being used as a pet litter absorbent, it is an ingredient in detergents, crayons, paints, dyes, polishes and paper. Bentonite clay, is also used industrially, in oil and gas industries for fluid drilling, in iron ore pelletizer and in foundries for sand casting process.

Benefits of bentonite clay has been well known and used from the primitive times and is still used widely by practitioners of alternative medicines, as an effective internal cleanser. And we have seen that the benefits are not only applied in the field of medical science but in other fields as well. What can be simpler and more pleasant than using a mineral, as simple as clay, for the benefit of our health and adding more joyful and vibrant years to our lives?