Charcoal is a non-food substance, though a version of it -- called activated charcoal -- may have some potential medicinal uses. It is important to understand that activated charcoal and the charcoal briquettes used for grilling are different; using activated charcoal does not mean simply consuming regular charcoal. Activated charcoal is made by taking a starting material, such as coconut shells, peat, coal or sawdust, and carbonizing it in a kiln. The potential health benefits of activated charcoal need further research to prove their viability.
Poison Prevention
Activated charcoal is most commonly used as an emergency treatment for poisoning, as charcoal may be able to help prevent the body from absorbing ingested toxic substances. According to MayoClinic.com, its effectiveness is limited, as it does not work to prevent absorption of certain substances such as gasoline, paint thinner, boric acid or cleaning fluid. Charcoal may also be effective in preventing the symptoms associated with food poisoning.
Cholesterol
Activated charcoal may be useful in lowering blood cholesterol levels. A 1986 study published in the medical journal "The Lancet" reported that study participants showed improvements in their LDL, or bad, and HDL, or good, cholesterol levels after taking activated charcoal. LDL cholesterol levels were lowered by an average of 41%, and HDL increased by 8%.
Digestion
A suggested use of activated charcoal is to treat digestive issues, such as gas and bloating. The effectiveness of using charcoal for this purpose is not supported by research. It is important to note that some brands of activated charcoal contain the sweetener sorbitol that, due to sorbitol's laxative effects, may cause actually cause the digestive issues they were meant to prevent.
Considerations
For emergency treatment of poisoning, it is imperative to call your local poison control center rather than attempt to administer activated charcoal on your own. Also, before undergoing any alternative treatment, such as using activated charcoal to lower cholesterol, consult your doctor. She will be able to recommend the best treatment regimen for you, based on her clinical experience and your medical needs.
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