Bentonite clay: benefits and uses

Natural clay with a delicate, supple texture is called bentonite clay. When combined with water, it turns into a paste. Some people apply this paste to their skin or hair for therapeutic or aesthetic purposes, such as the treatment of rashes and acne.

For thousands of years, people have utilised bentonite clay to eliminate toxins from the body and skin impurities like oils.

Several skin care products contain bentonite clay, but some people also add it to meals or beverages to treat digestive problems or flush the body of impurities.

The health advantages of bentonite clay have been the subject of numerous investigations, however the majority of these studies used cell or animal models. Before scientists can fully understand the advantages and disadvantages of bentonite clay in people, more research is required.

This article examines the evidence for 11 potential health advantages of bentonite clay as well as associated dangers.

What is the function of bentonite clay?

Bentonite clay is thought to function by absorbing impurities and oils from the skin, according to scientists.

According to the notion, bentonite clay absorbs substances by bonding to their molecules or ions. The poison or other compounds are carried out of the body by the clay as it departs.

Bentonite clay may have the ability to absorb oils and germs when applied to the skin. When they consume the clay, it may adsorb toxins or other unwanted substances from the digestive tract.

Natural minerals including calcium, magnesium, and iron are present in bentonite clay, and they may have additional advantages.

Volcanic ash gives birth to bentonite clay. Its name comes from Fort Benton, Wyoming, where it is widely distributed. This clay can also be found in other locations where volcanic ash has descended into the earth. The same kind of clay is called montmorillonite clay after Montmorillon, France.

1. Purging the body of toxins

To get rid of toxins from the body, some people consume bentonite clay. Its advantages are perhaps best known for this one.

According to several research, bentonite clay may lessen the impact of pollutants.

For instance, a study on chicks discovered that bentonite clay lessened the effects of aflatoxin B1, a poison that is produced by specific kinds of mould. Chicks that got a concentrated form of bentonite clay experienced less harmful side effects than those that did not.

Added research

A study by Trusted Source examined how children's exposure to pollutants in Ghana, West Africa, was affected by montmorillonite clay, which is quite similar to bentonite clay. Aflatoxin-containing homemade dietary supplements are associated with stunted growth and impairments in the research area.

The study's findings showed that kids who got a calcium montmorillonite clay supplement every day for two weeks had less evidence of aflatoxins in their urine than kids who did not.

Rats ingested cyanide-containing effluent in a tiny animal experiment. Some of the rats received varying doses of bentonite clay or a placebo, according to the researchers. After three weeks, those who received the most clay had the least quantity of the poison in their bodies.

Before confirming that bentonite clay is safe and effective for usage in people, scientists must perform more research.

What to do

Once per day, combine up to 1 teaspoon (tsp) of bentonite clay with 6–8 ounces (oz) of distilled water.

Bentonite clay powder can be purchased through pharmacies or online, where a variety of brands are available. Make sure the clay you select has been designated as edible by the manufacturer.

Bentonite clay should be consumed at least two hours before or after any medicine. Bentonite clay may bind to some drugs and lessen their effectiveness because it can absorb other substances.

2. Treating acne and greasy skin

The adsorbent properties of bentonite clay may be useful for treating acne and greasy skin. The clay may also have a calming impact on inflammatory breakouts and can assist in removing sebum, or oil, from the skin's surface.

A clay face mask can be used to cure acne or lessen the likelihood of developing pimples and skin infections by removing pollutants from the skin.

What to do

Due to their ability to clear the face, clays are a common ingredient in commercial facial masks. Several face masks for skin care contain bentonite, but you may also make your own at home.

To form a thick paste, combine water and bentonite clay powder.

Care for poison ivy

Urushiol, the oil that poison ivy plants generate, causes allergic reactions in many people. They may experience an allergic reaction when their skin comes into touch with poison ivy, leading to the recognisable rash.

Redness, inflammation, and excruciating itching are common symptoms of a poison ivy rash. A 1995 study discovered that bentonite clay can treat poison ivy rash and hasten the recovery process after an allergic reaction.

What to do

As soon as possible after coming into contact with poison ivy, wash the skin with soap and water. Employ dish soap or an oil-removing soap to assist in removing urshiol from the skin.

Apply a paste made of bentonite clay and water to the afflicted area. Wrap in a fresh bandage or piece of gauze. Repeat a few times daily until the rash has disappeared.