Bentonite Clay: Mineral-Packed Multipurpose Medicine

Have you heard of the unique healing properties of bentonite clay? Bentonite clay is a type of clay that is formed from the aging of volcanic ash. Traditionally named after Fort Benton, Wyoming, which has a large quantity of the calcium-rich clay, bentonite clay has been used for centuries by indigenous cultures and has gained popularity as a natural detoxification and weight loss aid.

How does it work?

This healing clay is rich in minerals, including silica, calcium, and magnesium, and has a fine, soft texture. When mixed with water, it becomes highly absorbent, which is why it is often used to treat digestive issues and help with detoxification. This versatile clay can also be mixed into a paste and applied to the skin for cosmetic benefits, such as alleviating rashes and helping ward off acne.

Bentonite clay also works internally by absorbing potentially harmful materials by sticking to the molecules or ions. As the clay moves out of your body, it takes the toxin with it. When applied topically, bentonite clay can absorb oils and bacteria from the skin, which can help with acne and other blemishes.

When should I use it?

If bentonite clay is consumed on an empty stomach, it is thought to bind to toxins and heavy metals in the body. By doing so, it can help to remove toxins and heavy metals from the digestive tract in a process which supports the body's natural detoxification. Taken with food, bentonite clay may even bind to food-borne and harmful microbes that need to be cleared from the GI tract. Though bentonite clay is great for detoxification, you may also use it to support healthy bacteria in the gut, which can assist your body in absorbing beneficial nutrients. This could potentially assist in reducing inflammation and could alleviate some of the negative symptoms of gastrointestinal distress, including diarrhea, gas, and bloating. What a great additional benefit!

However, user beware! As well as it works for those specific purposes, it can also impair absorption of nutrients or medications. It is always a good idea to check in with your healthcare provider if you’re not sure about safety or frequency of use for any dietary supplement.

As you can see, this healing clay can be applied to many things, but don’t take our word for it, bentonite clay is backed by science! A study published in the Journal of Environmental Science and Health found that bentonite clay was effective at removing lead and other heavy metals from the bodies of mice. A study published by the American Chemical Society demonstrated the potential benefit of ingesting small amounts of montmorillonite (bentonite) clay as a natural way to reduce toxin bioavailability as well as human and animal exposure. (Read more about it here - https://pubs.acs.org/doi/full/10.1021/acsomega.9b02051)

Can bentonite clay help keep the pounds off?

Who doesn’t like losing a few extra pounds? In addition to its detoxification properties, bentonite clay is also thought to have weight loss benefits. Some people believe that by removing toxins from the body, bentonite clay can help to improve metabolism and aid in weight loss over time. More research is needed to establish the benefits of bentonite clay on weight loss, but early studies are promising.

What’s the best way to use the clay?

A mouthful of clay for breakfast – yum! Luckily, there are a few different ways to consume bentonite clay for detoxification and weight loss. Truth be told, it doesn’t taste like much, in fact, it is virtually tasteless, and may be best combined with some juice if you’re sensitive to the taste of health (smile). Bentonite clay is commonly offered as capsules, or in a powder that can be easily added to smoothies or other foods.

Topically, when combined with a small amount of water, the clay can form a poultice to reduce pain and inflammation caused by a toothache or tooth abscess. To take bentonite clay on an empty stomach, it can also simply be mixed with water and consumed early in the morning. Some people also swear by bentonite clay as a face mask or body wrap to reduce acne, tighten, and tone the skin.

The Bottom Line

Unfortunately, there’s no magic solution to shed some pounds and detoxify your body. However, bentonite clay can help support the natural detoxification processes of your body, which can assist in weight loss. Just remember - a healthy diet and regular exercise is also key for overall health and healthy weight management.

A completely natural substance, and one of nature’s gifts long revered for its healing properties and healthy detoxification support, bentonite clay is rich in minerals and highly absorbent. This substance is effective in binding with and removing toxins and heavy metals from the body. If you’re looking to add bentonite clay to your nutritional routine, be sure to select a trusted brand with high quality standards.

 

Jenny Perez is an herbal educator, researcher, and writer who has been immersed in the field of nutrition and botanical medicine for more than 20 years. Jenny has created curriculum, content, and educational materials for Quantum Nutrition Labs, Premier Research Labs, the American Botanical Council, and Bastyr University’s Botanical Medicine Department where she was Adjunct Faculty, Herb Garden Manager, and Director of the Holistic Landscape Design certificate program.