Health Benefits of Bentonite Clay
There are many health benefits of Bentonite Clay, and this article we will explore them and learn how to use it in your natural health and beauty routine to remove toxins and aid in healing.
Bentonite Clay has been a staple in my natural beauty cabinet for years! It's super easy to use and has amazing health and beauty benefits. You can use it for detoxing from toxic deodorant, or in the bath for an overall detox. It can also be used for a wonderful face mask to soften and improve the health of your skin!
Some Fun Bentonite Clay History
Bentonite Clay one of the most highly sought after healing clays in the world. Different cultures around the world, like in the Andes, Central Africa and Australia, have consumed clays in numerous ways for centuries for digestive issues, illnesses and skin conditions because of it's ability to eliminate toxins from the human body.
Health Benefits of Bentonite Clay
Bentonite Clay is simply aged/old volcanic ash. The largest known deposit of Bentonite Clay in the world is found at Ford Benton, Wyoming from which the clay derives its name.
Bentonite Clay is Rich in Minerals
The clay contains several minerals. The minerals include potassium, iron, copper, sodium, silica, magnesium, and calcium. Our bodies are lacking in many minerals today due to lack of crop rotation and the depletion of our soil with the heavy use of pesticides and herbicides. So to reap the benefit of these minerals, you can actually ingest it! Once ingested, the body absorbs its vitamins and minerals the same way it does any other type of supplement.
How does Bentonite Clay Detox?
It carries a strong negative charge which bonds to the positive charge in many toxins. When it comes in contact with a toxin, chemical, or heavy metal, the clay will absorb the toxin and release it’s minerals for the body to use. It ensures that cells receive all the oxygen they need by binding to and removing the extra hydrogen in the cells, which creates more space for oxygen.
The clay also alkalizes the body while balancing gut bacteria! It can actually be taken internally as a drink.
How to Use Bentonite Clay – Some Recipes
Bentonite Clay Face Detox Mask
Bentonite Clay is especially wonderful for healthy skin! To see my full bentonite clay mask mask tutorial, click here. To create mask, it is SO simple! Just mix equal parts water or Apple Cider Vinegar with Bentonite Clay to make a paste. Then rub on:
- Rashes
- Eczema
- Psoriasis
- Acne
- the Face (great for acne-prone skin)
- the Underarms
Leave the paste on long enough for it to dry, then rinse off with water.
I used this mask on my face after I stopped using steroid cream to help my skin heal and it really helped!
Underarm Detox Mask
I also used it to detox off of toxic deodorant that contains aluminum, so I could switch to natural deodorant without a lot of stank and grossness. Here's my full tutorial on how and why to do an underarm detox when switching to natural deodorants. Click here for my homemade natural deodorant recipe!
Bentonite Clay Detox Bath Recipe
The clay is also worth using in the bath as a whole body detox method. It detoxes by releasing an electric charge that attracts all toxins to itself, thus leaving the body clean. Make sure to rinse or even clean out the bathtub after doing a clay bath.
All you'll need is 1-2 cups of clay – soak for 20-40 minutes for an effective detox! Add in lavender or frankincense essential oils for relaxation and cleansing.
Combine with Essential Oils
The aroma and benefits of essential oils are so incredible! I've been using Young Living essential oils since 2014 and me and my family have never been healthier.
Just add a few drops of your favorite skin-loving essential oil to the clay, like:
- Lavender
- Frankincense
- Geranium
- Joy blend from Young Living
- Rose
- Rosemary
How to Source Pure Bentonite Clay
The best known sources of pure Bentonite Clay are:
- United States
- France
- Italy
Pure Bentonite Clay is free of pollutants and contaminants. Pure clay should have a pH of not less than 8.7 while remaining odorless and tasteless at all times. Pure clay is non-gritty and never stains materials. It should have a light grey color – anything that looks white is probably not the real thing! Therefore, check the history of the companies or people selling the clay to determine their reputation within the industry.
I really like the Molivera brand on Amazon. (and with Prime shipping – my fav!)