How Do You Use Bentonite Clay For Detox?

What is Bentonite Clay?

Bentonite clay is a soft, earthy mineral formed from volcanic ash. It is composed mainly of montmorillonite, which is part of the smectite group of clays. Bentonite was named after Fort Benton, Wyoming where large deposits of the clay can be found (Wikipedia, 2022).

The earliest recorded use of bentonite clay dates back to 1500BC in Crete. However, bentonite clays were used medicinally and for purification rituals by Native Americans long before the coining of the name bentonite. The Clay’s ability to swell and gel offered effective healing and drawing properties. (Moosavi, 2017).

The main chemical components of bentonite clay are aluminum phyllosilicate and varying amounts of iron, magnesium, calcium, sodium, and potassium. It’s the strong negative electromagnetic charge of the montmorillonite that gives bentonite its powerful properties (Moosavi, 2017). When mixed with water, bentonite has an expanding crystal structure that draws impurities, toxins, and heavy metals out of the skin.

How Does Bentonite Clay Work?

Bentonite clay works through a process called adsorption. Adsorption refers to the binding of molecules, ions, or atoms onto a surface. Bentonite clay is particularly effective at adsorbing toxins and other impurities due to its porous structure and negatively charged surface (Marouf et al., 2021).

The negative charge of bentonite clay allows it to attract and bind to positively charged toxins and impurities. When ingested or applied topically, bentonite clay binds to harmful substances in the body like heavy metals, pesticides, and other pollutants (Frontiers in Chemistry, 2019). This binding process prevents the toxins from being reabsorbed in the gut or through the skin.

Once bound to the clay, the toxins remain trapped in its porous structure. As the clay passes through the gut, it carries these toxins out with the waste. Topically applied bentonite clay can draw impurities out of the skin in a similar manner. By adsorbing and removing toxins, bentonite clay helps cleanse and detoxify the body (NCBI, 2020).

Benefits of Detoxing with Bentonite Clay

Bentonite clay may help remove toxins and impurities from the body through a process called adsorption. The negatively charged clay attracts positively charged toxins and helps pull them out of the body through the digestive tract (1). Some key benefits of detoxing with bentonite clay include:

Remove Heavy Metals

Bentonite clay has been shown to help remove heavy metals like lead, mercury and cadmium from the body. The clay binds to heavy metals in the gut, preventing their absorption. It then carries the metals out through the intestines (2).

Remove Other Toxins

Studies indicate that bentonite clay may help remove other environmental toxins like pesticides and mycotoxins. The clay absorbs these substances and eliminates them from the body (1, 2).

Improve Digestion

By removing toxins and heavy metals, bentonite clay may help promote better digestion. Some research suggests it can help treat diarrhea by absorbing water and helping firm up stool (2).

Benefit Skin

Applied topically, bentonite clay may remove toxins from the skin. This helps treat skin conditions like acne and dermatitis. The clay also helps exfoliate dead skin cells and absorb excess oils (1).

Overall, bentonite clay is valued for its ability to remove impurities from the body, both internally when taken orally and externally when used on the skin.

How to Use Bentonite Clay

Bentonite clay can be used both internally and externally. Here are some guidelines for using bentonite clay effectively:

Internal Use

To use bentonite clay internally, mix 1-2 teaspoons of powdered clay into 8 ounces of water or juice. Drink immediately, as the clay can thicken over time. Some people recommend starting with 1/4-1/2 teaspoon to assess tolerance. Do not take internally for more than 10 days consecutively without consulting a doctor ^[1].

External Use

For external skin applications, make a paste by mixing powdered bentonite clay with a small amount of water. Apply a thick layer to affected areas and allow to dry for 5-20 minutes before rinsing. Clay masks can be done 1-2 times per week. For baths, add 1/4-1/2 cup of clay powder and soak for at least 20 minutes ^[2].

Mixing Instructions

Use a glass, wood, or plastic mixing container, as metal can interact with the clay. Mix the clay powder with water only until fully integrated – do not overmix. The texture should be smooth and thick but still pourable.

Dosage

Start with lower doses of 1/4-1/2 teaspoon internally or externally and gradually increase over time as tolerated. Do not exceed 2 teaspoons internally per day. Externally, apply a layer thick enough to cover skin while avoiding very thick applications.

When to Use Bentonite Clay

Some of the best times to use bentonite clay for detox include:

For detox periods. Many people advocate using bentonite clay 1-2 times per week as part of a regular detox regimen. For example, you may drink a bentonite clay mixture first thing in the morning several times per week to help remove toxins from the body (1). Planning short 3-5 day detox periods where you increase your bentonite clay intake can also help give your body an intensive cleansing boost.

With symptoms of toxicity. Pay attention to symptoms like fatigue, headaches, skin issues, digestive problems or just feeling generally unwell. Using bentonite clay more frequently when you notice these symptoms arising can help bind and remove the toxins causing them. It’s recommended to do a 3-5 day intensive bentonite clay detox when experiencing multiple symptoms of toxicity (2).

After getting sick. Using bentonite clay after an illness like cold or flu can help clear away the toxins left behind that made you sick. It may also help restore the beneficial gut flora that often gets disrupted when sick (3).

After antibiotic use. Taking antibiotics can wipe out beneficial bacteria in the gut, so a bentonite clay detox after antibiotics helps remove antibiotic residues and supports repopulating gut flora (4).

During or after periods of unhealthy eating. If you’ve eaten a lot of processed foods, sugar or junk food, a bentonite clay detox can help bind and flush out the toxins from this unhealthy diet. It’s a good way to reset your system after holidays, vacations or times when your diet wasn’t ideal.

After exposure to pollutants. Toxins from the environment like pesticides, heavy metals, pollution and chemicals build up in the body over time. Using bentonite clay periodically helps clear out these toxins before they can accumulate and cause health problems. It’s especially helpful after direct exposures through food, air or water.

Sources:

(1) https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325241
(2) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5632318/
(3) https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/bentonite-clay-benefits

Safety and Side Effects

Bentonite clay is generally considered safe for most people when used appropriately (1, 2). However, there are some potential side effects and contraindications to be aware of:

Possible side effects may include (2):

• Constipation when ingesting high doses
• Bloating and cramping
• Skin dryness and irritation when used topically

Bentonite clay should be avoided by (3):

• Pregnant women
• Nursing mothers
• Individuals with iron deficiency
• Those taking medications, as clay can reduce absorption

It’s a good idea to always consult with your healthcare provider before using bentonite clay, especially if you have any medical conditions or take any medications. Start with small doses and discontinue use if any worrisome side effects develop.

While research suggests bentonite clay is likely safe for most people, there is still more to learn about its long-term effects with regular use (1). As with any natural supplement, it’s wise to remain cautious and attentive to your body’s response.

Comparison to Other Detox Methods

Bentonite clay has some key advantages as a detox method compared to other options like juices, cleanses, or supplements:

Supplements can be expensive, require consistent use, and may have unwanted side effects. According to the NIH, bentonite clay is affordable and generally recognized as safe when used occasionally (1).

Juice cleanses and intense diet changes can be difficult to sustain long-term. Bentonite clay can safely be used for short periods as needed (2).

Many cleanses only focus on the digestive tract. Bentonite clay may draw toxins out from the gut and the entire body through adsorption (3).

Bentonite clay is very adaptable. It can be taken internally or used topically. Most other detox methods are limited to internal use only.

The unique binding properties of bentonite clay set it apart from other detoxification approaches. For targeted cleansing without major habit changes, bentonite clay offers a distinctive natural solution.

Recommended Bentonite Clay Brands

When looking for a quality bentonite clay, it’s important to choose a brand that provides pure, food-grade bentonite clay. Here are some top recommended brands:

Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay (https://www.organicauthority.com/energetic-health/bentonite-clay-consumer-guide) is a popular bentonite clay mask brand. Their bentonite clay is 100% natural calcium bentonite clay, free of additives and fragrances. It’s an excellent choice for skin detoxing and deep pore cleansing.

Mountain Rose Herbs Bentonite Clay (https://www.organicauthority.com/energetic-health/bentonite-clay-consumer-guide) offers a high quality, pure sodium bentonite clay harvested from naturally occurring deposits. It’s ideal for internal and external detox.

Molivera Organics Bentonite Clay (https://www.amazon.com/Bentonite-Clay-Food-Grade-Powder/dp/B01G2IFKE4) provides a food-grade calcium bentonite clay powder. Their clay is untreated and sun-dried for maximum purity. It’s great for making detox drinks, masks, soaps, and more.

When evaluating bentonite clay brands, look for “100% natural” or “pure” on the label, along with independent lab testing to ensure no contaminants are present. Going with a reputable, organic brand can help ensure you get a high quality clay that’s safe for regular use.

Recipes with Bentonite Clay

Bentonite clay can be used to make a variety of recipes for detoxification purposes. Two of the most popular recipe types are detox drinks and face masks.

Detox Drink Recipes

Bentonite clay detox drinks help remove toxins from the digestive tract. Simple recipes only require bentonite clay, water, and lemon juice (source). For optimal results, stir 1 teaspoon of bentonite clay into 10-12 ounces of water and the juice from 1/2 lemon in a glass jar or bottle. Allow to sit for at least 15 minutes before drinking to allow the clay to activate. Shake well before drinking. For a fruit-flavored detox drink, combine 8 ounces of water, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 1 teaspoon bentonite clay, 1 tablespoon raw honey, and 1/2 cup diced watermelon in a blender. Blend until smooth and drink immediately (source).

Face Mask Recipes

Bentonite clay masks help draw out impurities from skin. For oily and acne-prone skin, mix 1 tablespoon bentonite clay with 1 tablespoon water until it forms a thick paste. Apply to face and leave on for 5-10 minutes before rinsing. For normal skin, combine 1 tablespoon bentonite clay, 1 teaspoon raw honey, and 1 tablespoon plain yogurt or apple cider vinegar. Apply to face for 10-15 minutes (source).

FAQs

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about using bentonite clay for detox:

Is bentonite clay safe to take internally? Yes, bentonite clay is generally safe to ingest in small amounts by mixing with water. However, there are potential side effects like constipation and gastrointestinal issues to be aware of. It’s best to start with small doses and increase slowly. Consult a doctor before use if pregnant or have a medical condition.¹

Can I use bentonite clay on my skin? Bentonite clay is safe to apply topically to the skin and hair. It may help cleanse skin, tighten pores, and exfoliate. Mix the clay with water to form a paste before applying. Rinse thoroughly after use. Doing a patch test first is recommended. Those with sensitive skin should use caution.²

What color should bentonite clay be? Bentonite clay ranges in color from cream, gray, yellow, or green depending on its mineral content. High quality bentonite clay that has not been overly processed should maintain a natural subtle color. Avoid clay bright white in color as it may have gone through more refining.³

Can I take bentonite clay daily? It’s not recommended to take bentonite clay every day long-term. Use it for a detox periodically for 1-2 weeks at a time. Taking it daily may lead to mineral deficiencies and side effects. Always start with small doses like 1/2 teaspoon.¹