What Are The Benefits Of Bentonite Powder?

What Are the Benefits of Bentonite Powder?

Sep 2, 2010 | By Jared Paventi

Holistic medicine systems regularly utilize clays to detoxify the body and heal inflammation. Bentonite, a volcanic ash found in Wyoming, is one of the most popular medicinal clays due to its electrical properties. According to Eyton's Earth--a website dedicated to Bentonite clay research--Bentonite is packed with negatively charged ions, which bond to the positive ions that cause inflammation in the body. Bentonite ash is sold as a powder, which can be ingested to relieve diarrhea and other intestinal distress or mixed with water to form a clay for external application.

Can be Used as a Detoxifier

Bentonite's power comes from its negatively charged ion. In his book "The Healing Power of Clay," Michel Abehsera says the negative ions attract the positive ions and neutralize them. "These toxins are irresistibly drawn towards the clay," he writes. Bentonite producer Sunrise Herbal Farms writes that it can relieve toxin-induced diarrhea, cramps, nausea and headaches.

Immune System Booster

A number of studies connect Bentonite usage with increased immune system functions. Scientists at the University of Tennessee issued a pioneering study in the field in 1977. Printed in "The Journal of Immunology," the study showed by that a solution of 1mg Bentonite per milliliter of water increased the body's levels infection-fighting T-cells and antibody-forming B-cells in laboratory animals.

Intestinal Healer

Bentonite has long been used to treat diarrheal illnesses. According to Eyton's Earth, Bentonite is primarily made up of hydrated aluminum silicate. The compound has been used for centuries in Chinese and European medicine for the treatment of diarrhea and cholera. The powder, when ingested with water, absorbs gases, toxins and bacteria. It also neutralizes acid on contact, resolving issues related to acid reflux and helping to heal ulcers.