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Not only do I rub mud on my face, but I brush my teeth with it and drink it too. Sounds crazy? I’m talking about bentonite clay!
Bentonite clay is derived from volcanic ash and is often used for detoxifying the body. People first discovered it in Montmorillon, France, so it’s also called montmorillonite clay. Bentonite is used topically to soothe skin issues like dermatitis and poison ivy. However, its toxin-binding abilities also make it a go-to remedy for cleansing and overall wellness.
What is a Bentonite Detox Used For?
I love bentonite in detox baths, but sometimes I also take it internally. Whether used internally or externally, calcium bentonite clay is a staple natural remedy for detoxing. But can clay really detox the body? Yes, through a process called adsorption, where it pulls in toxins and impurities like a magnet.
Research shows a few benefits of bentonite clay for detoxification:
- Environmental Toxicity: Bentonite clay can help the body eliminate environmental toxins like the chemicals we absorb from air, water, and food. Pesticides and herbicides are everywhere these days. Bentonite can bind many of them, including paraquat, one of the most toxic herbicides.
- Metal Toxicity: Bentonite detox baths may help draw out heavy metals through the skin. Research shows it could help remove lead and cadmium from soil. However, taking food grade bentonite internally could be even more helpful.
- Mold Toxicity: Bentonite can also bind certain mold toxins like aflatoxins and ochratoxins. These toxins are produced by molds growing in water-damaged buildings and on foods like grains. Both detox baths and taking bentonite internally can help with mold toxicity.
- Bacterial Infections: Bentonite clay also has antibacterial properties, which is one reason it’s used in toothpaste. In one case, bentonite clay combined with probiotics and black seed oil helped to eliminate a C. difficile infection in a 2-year-old girl.
How to Use Bentonite Clay to Detox
Many people prefer to start topically when it comes to using bentonite clay for detox. Here’s how to use it.
Topically
Bentonite clay can adsorb toxins and impurities when used topically in a bath or skincare. You can use it as a clay mask, detox bath, or even hair detox.
One way is to regularly enjoy a detox foot soak with bentonite clay and Epsom salt. It’s an excellent way to give yourself a spa experience in your own home. You can even apply a clay mask while you soak! Here’s a basic (3-ingredient) DIY face mask you can try. Or, for autumn, there’s a pumpkin spice version!
Essential oils can be a wonderful addition to a bentonite clay mask like this one. Tea tree and lavender make an excellent purifying combination. But you can really use any of your favorite skincare essential oils. Geranium and frankincense are known to nourish the skin. Leave the mask on for 15 to 20 minutes and rinse with warm water.
For a bentonite clay bath, add 1 to 2 cups of bentonite clay powder to a tub full of warm bathwater. The magnesium and other minerals in bentonite may provide additional health benefits. Add essential oils to enhance the “ahhh” effect!
Internally
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 daily. Some studies have used 3 grams daily with no issues.
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 off. Mix the clay thoroughly and allow it to sit for a few minutes before drinking to avoid clumping.
Drink it first thing in the morning or a couple of hours after meals. You just want to take it on an empty stomach and away from other supplements and medications if possible. Be sure to stay hydrated when taking bentonite internally.
How Long Does it Take?
The time it takes for bentonite clay to detox the body can vary widely from person to person. It depends on how you use it, how toxic you are, and what kinds of health issues you’re dealing with.
For internal use, some people notice effects within a few days. They may have better digestion or increased energy after a week. However, a full detox may take months, especially when dealing with environmental toxins and heavy metals. It’s common to use bentonite daily for a few weeks, and then take a break. That gives the body time to cleanse and restore.
For topical use, like clay masks and detox baths, the effects are fairly immediate. I notice my skin feels rejuvenated after just one clay mask or a bath. Still, regularly using it over time will likely get you the most benefits.
How Long Can You Safely Use Bentonite Clay to Detox?
You can safely use bentonite to detox in short-term cycles, but how long depends on how you use it.
For internal use, you can generally use it over a period of 1 to 4 weeks. This allows the body to cleanse without overloading the system. Then you might want to take a break for a few weeks to prevent any mineral imbalances or digestive issues.
For external use, like masks, foot soaks, baths, or even wraps, you can use it more often, like 1 to 3 times a week. There’s not much risk of overusing it that way.
I don’t recommend taking bentonite clay continuously over the long term. But that’s the case for most things. Because clay absorbs/adsorbs other substances, it’s possible that it could lead to deficiencies or bind up other supplements.
Potential Side Effects of Detoxing with Bentonite Clay
Bentonite clay doesn’t have many downsides –especially when used occasionally like for a detox. The digestive system is the body system most likely to cause symptoms.
- Constipation: Because bentonite clay can soak up water in the digestive tract, it can be constipating. The solution is to increase your hydration.
- Other Digestive Issues: Some people may have gas and bloating from taking bentonite, but it’s not common. Those with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) have even noticed positive benefits from taking it.
- Nutrient Deficiencies: In some people, taking bentonite for a long time could lead to certain nutrient deficiencies. However, in research, taking up to 3 grams daily didn’t reduce nutrient absorption.
Poor quality bentonite clay may have 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 the clay can interfere with absorption, those taking medications should consult a healthcare professional first. At the very least it should be taken several hours away from medications and supplements.
Breastfeeding and pregnant women and those breastfeeding should get medical advice when considering any type of detox. It may be a better idea to wait until the baby has weaned before stimulating detoxification pathways. However, unlike other detoxes that allow the body to release free-roaming toxins into the body, bentonite adsorbs and locks toxins in a matrix. This way they can be eliminated without potentially having a negative effect on other body systems.
Children can generally take it at one-quarter the dose of an adult.
Bottom Line
Bentonite is a healing clay oft-overlooked as a home remedy. While it’s an excellent remedy for diaper rash and eczema, there are many uses of bentonite clay. It’s an excellent addition to a detox regimen, both internally and externally. Bentonite is a versatile ingredient I like to have on hand in my home medicine cabinet and even my kitchen counter.
This brand of bentonite clay is good for both internal and external use.
Do you use bentonite clay to detox? How do you use it? Share with us below!
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