Activated charcoal is a porous form of carbon highly effective at absorbing certain impurities. The absorbent properties give activated charcoal uses ranging from water filtration to the medical treatment of poison within the human body.
The Chemical Properties
Activated charcoal---also called activated carbon---is charcoal chemically treated with oxygen to form thousands of tiny pores inside each charcoal fragment, according to activated charcoal producer, Carbon Resources. Charcoal is a naturally absorbent material, and the pores of activated carbon make it ideal for absorbing various types of impurities and toxins.
Use with Water
The absorbent properties of activated charcoal make it ideal for water filtration. Several commercially available water faucet filters and water pitchers are equipped with activated charcoal filter chambers through which water passes, removing impurities. Various fish aquarium filters also combine bulk activated charcoal or activated carbon pouches with other filter media to keep fish tanks free of toxins. Hobbyist website, The Tropical Tank, reports that activated charcoal removes chlorine, some heavy metals and organic molecules from water.
Medical Uses
The same properties making activated charcoal an ideal water filter, also aid in the treatment of some types of poisonings in humans, according to the Mayo Clinic. When swallowed or pumped into the stomach after a patient ingests poison, activated charcoal soaks up many types of harmful substances before the poison absorbs into the body through the stomach.
Medical Limitations and Warnings
Activated charcoal is not effective for the treatment of corrosive poisons, including alkalies, strong acids and petroleum-based fuels. Mayo Clinic reports that some types of medicinal activated charcoal contain the sweetener additive, sorbitol, which also functions as a laxative. While some medicinal activated charcoal is available over-the-counter, Mayo Clinic recommends physician supervision when using varieties containing sorbitol. Though some activated charcoal products carry claims they aid in treating gas and diarrhea, Mayo Clinic reports that these claims are unproven.
Available Forms
Pet and aquarium supply stores carry bulk jars and cans of activated charcoal for use in fish tank filters, and cartridges that fit on faucets or inside water pitchers are available for drinking water treatment. For medical uses, activated charcoal comes in tablet, chewable, powder and liquid forms.
