Some holistic health experts recommend natural Bentonite clay for heavy metal poisoning.
That’s because it’s believed this volcanic ash has the ability to bind toxins, heavy metals included.
However, scientific study of clay is still in its infancy.
Only a few studies have been done on the potential health benefits of clay. I couldn’t find one that specifically addressed heavy metal removal.
So, until that happens, consider clay a folk remedy.
But it’s a folk remedy with a really long history. Mud baths have been used for centuries. These baths long been considered a healthy thing to do.
So feel free to use clay to “detox” various parts of your body, such as under your arms or on the soles of your feet. However, please bear in mind this is based upon various recommendations in holistic health circles. Not medical science.
I can’t say for sure that clay is an effective way to remove toxins. At least until more studies are done. I do hope someone studies the potential of Bentonite clay.
One 2017 review published in the Iranian Journal of Public Health noted that Bentonite clay has a long medicinal history.
“From old times, the human kind has used clays, externally or internally, for maintaining body health or treating some diseases,” the authors wrote.
The authors also believed more research is warranted, given clay’s long use for a wide range of conditions.
What Is Bentonite Clay?
This volcanic ash is named “Bentonite clay” because vast deposits were discovered near Fort Benton, Wyoming.
Clay is becoming increasingly popular for a number of reasons. One is because it’s said to have a negative charge. So it’s believed to attract positively charged toxins, such as mercury and other heavy metals.
Even though there’s no controlled studies showing this happens, clay has been used for centuries. I feel comfortable using it externally, both for “detox” and as a beauty remedy.
(Later in this post I explain why I don’t consume clay and why I don’t encourage others to do so.)
Bentonite Clay Powder Externally
(This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase anything, I receive a referral fee, at no extra cost to you.)
Some people recommend taking clay internally. However, this isn’t something I personally advocate, unless you’re working with a medical professional. So I’m going to tell you how clay can be used externally. This is the only way I use it myself.
The amount of toxins we’re exposed to on a daily basis is staggering. Mercury is one poison many of us struggle with. It’s often the result of living with “silver” fillings. Unfortunately, these dental implants contain large amounts of mercury. A few years ago, I had to get my own fillings removed.
Fish is another source of exposure. Because of widespread environmental contamination, all types of fish (both salt and freshwater) now contain mercury.
Natural Home Remedies to Detox Your Body
So, if you’re trying to reduce your toxic load, you may want to consider natural Bentonite clay. This is a widely available resource. It’s been used medicinally for thousands of years. Clay is beginning to make a comeback, as people search for natural alternatives to pharmaceuticals.
Clay is considered (in natural health circles) good for drawing toxins from your body. (I don’t think mainstream medicine will buy into this until the studies are done.)
I personally think clay is one of those things that should be in every house. It has so many uses. I regular make clay face masks because I love how smooth my skin feels afterward.
One summer, when I had a bee sting, wet clay immediately stopped the pain.
Best Way to Detox Your Body Naturally
Please understand that I’m not a health professional. So I can’t give medical advice. Nor can I make claims that any product will pull metals out of your system. Also, I’m not aware of any specific studies that focus on clay for detoxification. So I’m only writing about its traditional use as a folk remedy.
Since I’m not giving medical advice, all I can do is pass along information and tell you what other people are doing. I can also share my own story of regaining my health. About 10 years ago, I developed a painful and potentially crippling nerve condition. Modern medicine considers it “incurable.”
But I didn’t take the mainstream medical route. Instead, I cleaned up my diet and used a lot of natural remedies, including clay. I use so many remedies because I need to rotate them.
This seems to help them work better, regardless of whether it’s an herb, an essential oil or a homeopathic remedy. After a break, I can try it again.
Bentonite Clay Powder Externally
I’ve bought many products. Some haven’t worked out as well as I’d hoped. I’ve had to pay for everything out of pocket. My insurance won’t pick up the tab. But since I’m feeling so much better, I consider it money very well spent.
A small jar of clay was one of my best investments. Because I only use a little at a time, on my face, feet and knees, my jar is probably going to last for years.
You’ll probably be able to find Bentonite clay at your local health food store. You can also order it online.
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Bentonite Clay for Heavy Metals
There are various ways to use Bentonite clay to detox. I’m going to tell you how I like to use it. I only apply it externally. I mix it with a little water, just enough to make a paste. Then I put it on my body.
For instance, my left knee can get sore. This is due to an old injury, which didn’t heal properly. So I put a clay mixture on my knee, in hopes of drawing out toxins.
I also put Bentonite clay on my face. After I rinse it off, I love how soft my skin feels. It’s a very easy DIY facial, in the privacy of your home.
Natural Detox With Home Remedies
I’ve also used clay on my feet. (I used to spend a fortune on foot detox pads.) I apply the mask about 30 minutes before a shower, and let it dry. The bottoms of your feet are highly porous and contain a rich blood supply. They provide an excellent way for toxins to escape.
I’ve also read accounts of people using Bentonite clay to detox their armpits. This is done in light of concerns that heavy metals, such as aluminum, may be contributing to the current breast cancer epidemic. Aluminum is an active ingredient in many deodorant brands.
Although I know some people take clay internally, I haven’t done this myself. Also, I don’t plan to try it. Just so you’re aware, this can have potentially side effects, according to other published reports.
Bentonite Clay Powder Uses
One online health expert, who advocates the use of clay, warns that consuming it in excess can potentially lead to constipation or even intestinal blockage, a serious condition. She strongly recommends ignoring any well-meaning, but potentially harmful advice to take up to four teaspoons a day.
Although some people do suggest taking clay internally, I urge you never to do this unless you’re working with an experienced holistic practitioner.
Disclaimer
These statements have not been approved by the FDA. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. People with health concerns should discuss them with a doctor. Women who are pregnant or nursing should not use clay, unless under the direction of a healthcare professional.
I’m not a healthcare professional, so all of the above statements are my personal opinion, and are not intended as medical advice.
For Additional Reading
Bentonite Clay As A Natural Remedy: A Brief Review
