Bentonite clay, or sodium bentonite, is a dehydrated form of volcanic ash mined from regions with a history of volcanic activity, including the state of Wyoming. Although the clay sells as an external treatment and a dietary supplement, the Food and Drug Administration does not oversee the production and sale of the clay, so there is no guarantee of effectiveness, safety or purity. Consult your doctor before using bentonite clay to treat a medical condition.
History
The website Healing Daily reports that bentonite clay has a history of centuries of use in primitive tribes, including Aboriginal tribes in Australia and indigenous tribes in Central Africa and the Andes. These native people may have used bentonite clay as a glaze coating on food items or consumed it for its detoxifying properties.
Constituents/Properties
Bentonite clay is available as a powder in health food stores and online. It’s light gray in color and contains silica, aluminum, iron, magnesium, sodium, calcium, titanium and potassium, according to Botanical.com. A small amount of moisture, approximately 7.8 percent, is also present in the clay powder. Bentonite clay's pH range is between 8.3 and 9.1.
Function
Bentonite clay is potentially beneficial in absorbing toxins and impurities, according to Botanical.com. It swells when it encounters moisture, acting like a sponge. The clay also contains trace minerals that may be beneficial as a dietary supplement, but talk to your doctor before taking bentonite clay internally.
Potential External Benefits
According to "The Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine," powdered bentonite clay may be beneficial in the topical treatment of fungal skin infections. Botanical.com suggests adding up to 3 oz. of the powdered clay to a bath for soaking. Prepare a bentonite clay pack by combining one part of dry clay with three parts of water, and apply as a paste to the skin.
Potential Internal Benefits
Bentonite clay is an alternative remedy for colon cleansing, according to Healing Daily. Taken in powdered form or in a blended liquid base, the clay reportedly removes toxins from the intestines. Clinical studies confirming the use of bentonite clay as a colon cleanser are lacking. Use the clay only under the supervision of a doctor of naturopathy.
References
- Botanical.com: Bentonite Clay Profile
- “The Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine, Volume 2”; Jacqueline L. Longe; 2005
- Healing Daily: Bentonite Clay for Internal Healing
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