Bentonite clay is a healing clay derived from volcanic ash. Since it was first discovered in Montmorillon, France, it is also called montmorillonite clay. I love bentonite clay for external uses such as facial masks and as a natural remedy for poison ivy, dermatitis, and diaper rash. However, the internal use of bentonite clay is more controversial.
Here are my thoughts on bentonite clay for internal use.
Health Benefits of Bentonite Clay When Used Internally
There are two main types of bentonite clay: sodium bentonite and calcium bentonite. Sodium bentonite clay is highly absorbent. It is used for agriculture and industry due to its ability to increase water retention and create a seal. Calcium bentonite clay is the type of clay most often used for its health benefits.
Detoxifying
Bentonite has great nutritional value. It is known to provide a variety of minerals, including calcium, magnesium, silica, copper, iron, sodium, and potassium. When dissolved in water, these bentonite minerals quickly produce a strong electrical charge.
Due to its negative charge, bentonite clay attracts positively charged substances. It’s a process called “adsorption.” Toxins such as pesticides, mold, and other impurities often have a positive charge. That’s why bentonite is a common ingredient in teeth whitening toothpaste, face masks, and skin care.
However, since is Being such an effective binder, ingesting bentonite clay can be a useful part of a detox plan. It seems to work in practice. Below are some examples:
- Aflatoxins: Aflatoxins are toxic compounds produced by certain molds. They can grow in water-damaged buildings and contaminate foods such as cereals. Exposure to these molds can cause significant health problems. The good news is that bentonite can bind to aflatoxins, helping to eliminate them from the body.
- Pesticides: Bentonite clay can help bind pesticides that have entered the body through food, water, or the environment. Paraquat is one of the most used herbicides in the world and one of the most toxic. Bentonite clay is a known paraquat binder.
- Heavy metals: In animal studies, bentonite clay appears effective at binding toxic metals, including lead, copper, and cadmium.
Bentonite clay can help, but it is only one piece of the puzzle in reducing exposure to toxins. It is also important to eat organic produce, use water filters, and avoid contact with toxins.
Relieve constipation
Bentonite can help with certain digestive problems, such as constipation dominant IBS. When ingested, bentonite clay swells and forms a gelatinous substance. The added volume stimulates the intestinal muscles, creating “peristalsis.” It helps move waste through the intestines more easily.
The detoxifying properties of bentonite clay can help eliminate toxins from the digestive tract. Since it promotes intestinal health, this cleansing effect can also relieve constipation. However, it is important to be careful with how much you use. Drinking too much water or not drinking enough water can make constipation worse.
Soothing stomach ulcers
When ingested, bentonite clay can help form a protective layer in the stomach. The barrier can protect the ulcerated areas from further irritation by stomach acid. It can also help reduce inflammation and promote healing. Some people have noticed improvement with ulcers. However, it is a good idea to consult with your doctor before adding bentonite to your treatment plan.
skin health
While not a direct internal benefit, improving gut health with bentonite clay can sometimes lead to clearer skin. It is well known that digestive problems and toxins can contribute to skin problems such as acne or eczema.
Bentonite Clay for Internal Use
The FDA has classified bentonite clay as “generally recognized as safe” (GRAS) for internal use. They just haven’t approved it to treat specific medical conditions. As mentioned above, bentonite clay can be quite effective for detoxification and promoting digestion.
It’s a good idea to talk to your health care professional before starting any new supplements, especially if you have underlying health problems. It may also interfere with certain medications. To be sure to take it internally safely, make sure your bentonite clay source is food grade. It must also be tested and determined to be low in lead.
Possible side effects of internal bentonite clay
Bentonite clay may cause side effects in certain people, especially if not used correctly. Here are some symptoms and concerns to watch out for:
- Constipation: Bentonite clay can absorb water in the digestive tract. Therefore, if not taken with enough water, it can cause constipation.
- Other digestive problems: In a clinical trial, some people experienced gas, bloating, abdominal pain, and diarrhea when taking bentonite for 2 weeks. However, those people represented only 10% of the study participants. The other participants had no problems and it didn’t matter whether they took 1.5 grams or 3 grams per day.
- Nutrient deficiencies: Bentonite can bind to vitamins and minerals in the digestive tract when taken in excess. Over time, it could interfere with absorption and lead to nutrient deficiencies, especially key electrolytes. But in normal amounts (up to 3 grams), it did not reduce nutrient absorption.
- Heavy metal contamination: Some bentonite clay products contain traces of heavy metals such as lead, arsenic, and mercury. Taking contaminated clay can cause serious health problems over time.
Obtain food-grade bentonite clay and follow recommended dosages to minimize risks.
How to take bentonite clay internally
Bentonite is easy to incorporate into your daily routine. A typical dosage is ½ to 1 teaspoon of powdered bentonite clay in 1 cup of water once a day. However, some clinical trials have used up to 3 grams daily. It’s a great way to start each day.
Be sure to take it at least an hour before other supplements and medications as it may decrease their effectiveness. It is also important to drink plenty of water when taking bentonite clay orally. Without enough water, bentonite can be drying and constipating.
Where to get bentonite clay for internal use – Here you can find pharmaceutical grade bentonite clay with low lead content.
Conclusion
While I love a good homemade bentonite clay mask or detoxifying bath, I also appreciate being able to take bentonite clay internally. It is a great natural support for detoxification and promoting a healthy digestive system. As a side benefit, it may even improve skin health from the inside out.
Do you use bentonite clay internally? Has it helped you at all? Share with us below!?
