What Are The Benefits Of Food Grade Bentonite Clay?

Food-grade bentonite clay works as a facial cleanser; removes debris from wine, vinegar, juice and cider; and it also plays a role in alternative medicine. Much of the U.S. supply of bentonite clay comes from mines in Montana and Wyoming. In all its uses, this substance serves the same purifying purpose. Before using bentonite clay as a supplement, consult with your doctor.

Benefits

The particles of bentonite clay attach themselves to toxins inside your body before they reach the bloodstream. The clay that you ingest in supplement form is not digested. It gets flushed out, carrying the impurities it absorbs with it, says Perry Arledge, author of "Living Clay: Nature's Own Miracle Cure," in an article on "NaturalNews.com." According to Arledge, the cleansing process not only purifies the body, it also lets it absorb more nutrients. In "The Dictionary of Wholesome Foods," the authors also explain that, as a facemask, bentonite clay removes impurities from the pores and acts as an astringent. The clay makes the pores contract, allowing fewer toxins in. The beverage industry also uses bentonite clay during manufacturing to clear vinegar, wine, cider and juice of floating solids.

Description

Food-grade bentonite clay is made of fine granules of smooth earth. Commercially, the product is available in powder and liquid form. Clay is also an alkaline substance, containing minerals that allegedly sweep the body clean. There doesn't seem to be any readily available scientific studies proving that it does.

When to Use Bentonite Clay

In alternative medicine, bentonite clay is recommended for flushing impurities out when the body's filtration system is impaired or overwhelmed with toxins. Perry Arledge explains that reduced mental acuity, painful joints and digestive problems are some of the symptoms of toxicity overload. Make the decision to use bentonite clay as a nutritional supplement in consultation with your physician.

How to Use

Take bentonite clay internally according to your doctor's directions or follow the instructions on the label. As a facemask, mix it with just enough liquid to make a sticky paste. Spread it over the face and neck. Let it dry before rinsing. The authors of "The Dictionary of Wholesome Foods" recommend making the paste with water for oily skin, milk for normal skin and heavy cream for dry skin.