Bentonite clay is a type of volcanic clay that is used externally as a treatment for a wide variety of skin ailments. Graves' disease, a condition that affects the production of certain hormones by the thyroid gland, often causes afflicted individuals to develop a number of characteristic symptoms, including an unusual lower leg skin rash. Due to bentonite clay's success with similar skin problems, it may be a viable treatment for these specific symptoms of Graves' disease.
Bentonite Clay
Bentonite clay, also known as montmorillonite, is derived from volcanic ash and contains over 70 minerals. In the United States, the clay is located in large amounts in Wyoming and Montana. There are two main types of bentonite clay -- sodium bentonite and calcium bentonite. The calcium bentonite form of the compound is treats internal and external medical conditions. According to the website Us.ayushveda, calcium bentonite has been used for hundreds of years in folk medicine traditions.
Uses
Although proponents of bentonite clay claim that it is beneficial as a treatment for a number of internal health conditions, the clay is also an effective method for treating and preventing a variety of skin problems. These conditions include acne breakouts, skin infections, eczema and rashes, including the characteristic rash that develops on the legs of Graves' disease patients. Bentonite clay packs applied to Graves' disease rashes are thought to soothe pain, inflammation and itching and can stimulate blood circulation in the affected area.
Graves' Disease
Graves' disease -- a thyroid condition named after Robert Graves, the physician who initially identified the cause of the problem -- develops when the antibodies in an individual's immune system overstimulate the thyroid gland into producing an excess of the thyroid hormone thyroxine. The disease often causes a skin condition known aspretibial myxedema, also called Graves' dermopathy. Graves' dermopathy causes thick, inflamed reddish rashes and lumps to develop on the affected individuals' lower legs and feet. These areas of skin are painful and itchy.
Treatments
The Mayo Clinic recommends using compression wraps or medicated creams, ointments and other preparations to relieve the swelling and pain of Graves' dermopathy. However, supporters of bentonite clay use believe that applying a bentonite clay pack to the affected area can yield many of the same results: relief from the itching of the Graves' dermopathy rash and decreased inflammation, swelling, tenderness and redness. Since bentonite clay also cleans bacteria from the skin surface, it may also play a role in preventing infections from developing in the Graves' dermopathy rash. To use a bentonite clay pack, the Mountain Rose Herbs site recommends using a one part clay to three parts water ratio. Essential oils can be added to the mixture, and milk, cream or yogurt can be used instead of water to enhance the clay's moisturizing ability.
Warning
The use of bentonite clay for relieving the pain and itching suffered by people with Graves' disease and Graves' dermopathy has not been approved for use by established medical associations like the American Medical Association. Additionally, the bentonite clay sold to consumers is not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration for purity, effectiveness or safety. Before using using bentonite clay to relieve Graves' dermopathy-related skin inflammation and rashes, be certain to talk to your doctor. If you choose to use bentonite clay, discontinue use immediately and seek prompt medical attention if you experience any of the following symptoms of an allergic reaction: hives, sudden swelling, difficulty breathing or a marked worsening of the skin treated with bentonite clay.
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