What Does Indian Healing Clay Do?
What is Indian Healing Clay?
Indian healing clay, also known as bentonite clay, is a type of clay made from volcanic ash found in India. The clay is derived from bentonite, which refers to a type of clay found in volcanic regions around the world. Bentonite was named after Fort Benton, Wyoming where large deposits of this clay were found in the 1800s. Aztec Secret is a well-known brand of Indian healing clay that sources its clay from Death Valley, California.
Indian healing clay contains high amounts of minerals and trace elements such as silica, calcium, magnesium, sodium, copper, and iron. The silica content helps make the clay very absorbent while the variety of minerals provide the healing and therapeutic benefits. When mixed with water or apple cider vinegar, the clay develops a negative electrical charge, which allows it to bind to toxins, oils, and impurities and draw them out of skin and hair.
How Does It Work?
Indian healing clay, also known as bentonite clay, works through a process called adsorption. When mixed with water or vinegar, the clay develops an electrical charge that bonds to toxins, dirt, oil, and dead skin cells.1 The clay’s molecules act like a magnet, pulling impurities out of skin pores as it dries.2
As the clay deep cleanses skin, it also exfoliates by removing dead skin cells and revealing fresh new skin underneath. Improved circulation is another benefit, as the clay’s drawing action brings blood flow and nutrients to the skin’s surface.
Benefits for Skin
Indian healing clay is known for its ability to deeply cleanse pores and improve acne. When mixed with water or apple cider vinegar into a paste, the clay acts like a magnet, drawing out dirt, oil, toxins, and other impurities from deep within the skin. This helps shrink the appearance of pores, remove blackheads, and prevent breakouts (The Indian Healing Clay Mask: Benefits and How to Use It). The clay contains minerals like magnesium, calcium, and potassium that help calm inflammation and reduce redness.
Using Indian healing clay 1-2 times per week can help clear up existing acne while preventing future breakouts. Many notice improvements in their skin tone and texture as well, with a brighter, more even complexion. The deep cleansing properties help reveal fresh, glowing skin by sloughing off dead skin cells and restoring pH balance. Those with oily and acne-prone skin tend to see the best results, but all skin types can benefit from this versatile clay mask (The secret to all-natural skin detox: Indian healing clay mask).
Benefits for Hair
Indian healing clay provides several benefits when used on hair. One of the main benefits is removing product buildup from hair strands and the scalp. As the clay is massaged into the hair and allowed to sit, it binds to residue, dirt, oils and other impurities that can accumulate from hair products. After rinsing, hair is left cleaner and free of weighed-down buildup[1].
The clay also clarifies hair by absorbing excess oils. This helps rebalance the scalp and hair. After clarifying with the healing clay, hair tends to have more body and bounce. At the same time, the clay conditions hair by depositing minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium into strands. This nourishes hair and leaves it smooth and soft[2].
Using Indian healing clay as a hair mask adds shine and luster as well. The clay removes residue buildup that can make hair appear dull. It also smooths down the cuticle, allowing hair to better reflect light. This results in hair that looks glossier and healthier after using the healing clay[1].
Other Health Benefits
In addition to benefits for the skin and hair, Indian healing clay is also thought to provide some internal health perks as well. Some of the potential health benefits include:
Improves digestion
According to research, bentonite clay may help to absorb toxins and impurities from the digestive tract (source). This could aid digestion by removing compounds that can cause discomfort. Bentonite clay is sometimes used as a natural remedy for digestive issues like constipation, diarrhea, bloating and indigestion.
Detoxifies the body
Due to its absorbent nature, some believe that bentonite clay can soak up metals and toxins from the body like a sponge. This may help to eliminate toxins and promote a healthy detox (source). However, more research is still needed on bentonite clay’s effects on detoxification.
Boosts circulation
Applying bentonite clay to the skin may help to improve circulation and blood flow. The warming sensation it causes can increase blood flow to the applied area of skin (source). Enhanced circulation may promote healing and reduce inflammation.
How to Use
Indian healing clay is typically mixed with equal parts apple cider vinegar or water to create a paste. According to WikiHow, you’ll want to use a non-metal bowl and non-metal utensil when mixing to prevent any potential reactions with the clay.1 Once mixed, apply the clay paste directly to clean, dry areas of skin or hair while avoiding the eyes, mouth, and sensitive areas.
When applied to the face or skin, allow the clay mask to sit for 10-20 minutes before rinsing thoroughly with warm water. SkyOrganics recommends starting with 5-10 minutes if you have sensitive skin.2 For hair applications, massage the clay into the scalp and strands and allow it to sit for 15-20 minutes before rinsing out completely.
Some redness after rinsing is normal and will go away quickly. Be sure not to let the clay mask fully dry on the skin, as this can lead to cracking and peeling.
Best Practices
When using Indian healing clay, it’s important to follow best practices to get the most benefits and avoid potential issues.
Always do a patch test first on your arm to check for any adverse reactions. Mix a small amount of clay and apply to your forearm and leave for 5-10 minutes before rinsing. Look for signs of redness, itching, or irritation.
Don’t let the clay mask dry completely before rinsing off. The mask will harden and can be painful to remove. Rinse while mask is still damp for easy cleanup.
Use the Indian healing clay mask once or twice a week at most. Using it too frequently can dry out your skin.
Store unused clay in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out. Keep in a cool, dark place between uses.
Side Effects
Bentonite clay is generally considered safe when used moderately. However, there are some potential side effects to be aware of:
Overusing bentonite clay masks or treatments can dry out the skin. Bentonite clay is very absorbent and can draw oils from the skin. Using it more than 1-2 times per week can cause excessive dryness for some skin types.[1]
People with very sensitive skin may experience irritation or redness from bentonite clay. It contains trace amounts of minerals that can be irritating. Doing a patch test before full application is recommended.[2]
Ingesting bentonite clay regularly over long periods is not recommended. There is limited research on long-term oral consumption. Use it sporadically for detox purposes only.[3]
Buying Tips
When purchasing Indian healing clay, look for products that contain 100% natural bentonite clay without any added fragrances, scents, or colors. The highest quality and most effective Indian healing clay will just contain bentonite clay and no other additives. According to Aztec Secret, a popular brand of natural clay, true bentonite clay has a greyish tint and any bright colors indicate the presence of oxidized metal.
You can find many Indian healing clay products available from beauty retailers online. Two top reviewed options are Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay and Sky Organics Indian Healing Clay. Look for clays harvested in India, Australia, or the US. Always check reviews and product details to confirm the clay is 100% natural and fragrance-free before purchasing.
The Takeaway
Indian healing clay offers an impressive array of benefits when used properly. It’s a 100% natural substance that has been used for centuries to enhance beauty, soothe irritated skin, cleanse pores, and promote overall wellness. The top benefits include:
- Deep cleansing and detoxifying skin and hair
- Treating acne breakouts and reducing excess oil
- Tightening, toning, exfoliating and rejuvenating skin
- Balancing pH levels
- Extracting impurities from pores
- Reducing inflammation and soothing irritation
- Providing antibacterial properties
With regular use, Indian healing clay can lead to clearer, smoother, brighter skin and hair. It’s a versatile, natural remedy free of chemicals, fragrances and additives. When used according to directions, it’s safe for all skin types. Indian healing clay is an effective, affordable way to care for your body inside and out.
