I not only rub mud on my face, but I also brush my teeth and drink it too. Sound crazy? I’m talking about bentonite clay!
Bentonite clay is derived from volcanic ash and is often used to detoxify the body. People first discovered it in Montmorillon, France, which is why it is also called montmorillonite clay. Bentonite is used topically to relieve skin problems such as dermatitis and poison ivy. However, its ability to bind toxins also makes it an ideal remedy for cleansing and general well-being.
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 detoxification. But can clay really detoxify the body? Yes, through a process called adsorption, where it attracts toxins and impurities like a magnet.
Research shows some benefits of bentonite clay for detoxification:
- Environmental toxicity: Bentonite clay can help the body eliminate environmental toxins such as chemicals we absorb from air, water, and food. Today, pesticides and herbicides are everywhere. Bentonite can bind to many of them, including paraquat, one of the most toxic herbicides.
- Metal toxicity: Bentonite detox baths can help remove 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 to certain mold toxins, such as aflatoxins and ochratoxins. These toxins are produced by mold that grows on water-damaged buildings and on foods such as cereals. Both detoxifying baths and ingesting bentonite can help with mold toxicity.
- Bacterial infections: Bentonite clay also has antibacterial properties, which is why it is used in toothpaste. In one case, bentonite clay combined with probiotics and black seed oil helped clear a C. difficile infection in a 2-year-old girl.
How to use bentonite clay to detoxify
Many people prefer to start topically when it comes to using bentonite clay to detoxify. Here’s how to use it.
topically
Bentonite clay can absorb toxins and impurities when used topically in a bath or in skin care. You can use it as a clay mask, detox bath or even hair detox.
One way is to regularly enjoy a detoxifying foot soak with bentonite clay and Epsom salt. It’s a great way to give yourself a spa experience in your own home. You can even apply a clay mask while you soak! Here is a basic homemade face mask (3 ingredients) that you can try. Or, for fall, 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 essential oils for skin care. 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 powdered bentonite clay to a tub full of warm water. 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 to detox? 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 without problems.
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 strange. Mix the clay well and let it sit for a few minutes before drinking to prevent lumps from forming.
Drink it first thing in the morning or a couple of hours after meals. You should only take it on an empty stomach and, if possible, away from other supplements and medications. Be sure to stay hydrated when taking bentonite internally.
How long does it take?
The time it takes for bentonite clay to detoxify the body can vary greatly from person to person. It depends on how you use it, how toxic you are, and what kind of health problems you are facing.
For internal use, some people notice the effects within a few days. They may have better digestion or more energy after a week. However, a complete detox can take months, especially when it comes to environmental toxins and heavy metals. It is common to use bentonite daily for a few weeks and then take a break. That gives the body time to cleanse and restore itself.
For topical use, such as clay masks and detox baths, the effects are quite immediate. I notice my skin feels rejuvenated after just a clay mask or bath. Still, using it regularly over time will likely give you the most benefits.
How long can you safely use bentonite clay to detoxify?
You can safely use bentonite to detox in short-term cycles, but the duration depends on how you use it.
For internal use, you can generally use it for a period of 1 to 4 weeks. This allows the body to cleanse itself without overloading the system. Then you may want to take a break for a few weeks to avoid mineral imbalances or digestive problems.
For external use, such as masks, foot baths, soaks, or even wraps, you can use it more frequently, such as 1 to 3 times a week. There’s not much risk in overusing it that way.
I do not recommend taking bentonite clay continuously and for a long time. But that’s the case for most things. Because clay absorbs/adsorbs other substances, it may cause deficiencies or bind to other supplements.
Possible Side Effects of Bentonite Clay Detox
Bentonite clay does not have many disadvantages, especially when used occasionally, such as for detoxification. The digestive system is the body system most likely to cause symptoms.
- Constipation: Because bentonite clay can absorb water in the digestive tract, it can cause constipation. The solution is to increase your hydration.
- Other digestive problems: Some people may have gas and bloating from taking bentonite, but it is not common. People with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) have even noticed positive benefits from taking it.
- Nutrient deficiencies: In some people, prolonged intake of bentonite could lead to certain nutrient deficiencies. However, according to research, taking up to 3 grams daily did not reduce nutrient absorption.
Poor quality bentonite clay may contain lead, arsenic and mercury. Therefore, 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 clay can interfere with absorption, those taking medications should consult a health care professional first. At a minimum, it should be taken several hours away from medications and supplements.
Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult a doctor before 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 toxins into the body, bentonite absorbs and retains toxins in a matrix. This way they can be eliminated without potentially having a negative effect on other body systems.
Children can usually take it at a quarter of the adult dose.
Conclusion
Bentonite is a healing clay that is often overlooked as a home remedy. While it is an excellent remedy for diaper rash and eczema, there are many uses for bentonite clay. It is an excellent addition to a detox regimen, both internally and externally. Bentonite is a versatile ingredient that I like to have on hand in my home medicine cabinet and even on my kitchen counter.
This brand of bentonite clay is good for both internal and external use.
Do you use bentonite clay to detoxify? How do you use it? Share it with us below!
