There are many bentonite clay uses and benefits! Bentonite clay can be used externally and internally to help detox and cleanse the body. Below are some of my favorite daily uses for bentonite clay.
How does bentonite clay work?
There are numerous natural clay types out there that are packed with lots of benefits. Bentonite clay is one of them. This specific type of clay is derived from volcanic ash deposits and it has a unique detoxifying effect.
Overall, bentonite clay works by attracting and binding toxins and impurities, both externally and internally, helping to cleanse and detoxify the body and promote skin health.
Below are the benefits of bentonite clay and ways to use it.
Benefits of bentonite clay
Bentonite clay has many benefits for both external and internal use!
Rich in minerals like calcium, magnesium, and silica, bentonite clay acts as a natural detoxifier, drawing out impurities, toxins, and heavy metals from the skin when applied topically in face masks or baths.
Its absorbent properties make it effective for treating oily skin and acne. Bentonite clay can also soothe irritation, inflammation, and minor skin infections.
Internally, it can be ingested to support digestive health by binding to toxins and aiding in their elimination, thus promoting overall detoxification and potentially alleviating symptoms of digestive issues like bloating.
5 Ways to use bentonite clay
Here are my top 5 bentonite clay uses:
1. Brush your teeth
Bentonite clay can clean your teeth better than most toothpastes on the market! I use it in my homemade toothpaste recipe and have purchased a few different natural toothpastes (like this one that are made with bentonite clay and essential oils).
2. Cleanse your skin
Want to naturally cleanse your face and skin? This detox face mask is my go-to product for keeping my skin clean and clear. It can be used on the face and on the body.
3. Take a detox bath
Add a tablespoon of bentonite clay to your bath along with a cup of baking soda and a cup of epsom salts. The bentonite clay will aid in detoxifying your body and will also reduce chlorine in your water.
Read more about taking detox baths with magnesium and clay here.
4. Improve digestion
Bentonite clay may help you absorb nutrients by increasing flora activity in your gut. It’s also been used to treat digestive issues and help with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms such as constipation and diarrhea.
5. Detox your hair
Use this homemade detox hair mask to remove impurities from your hair. This always leaves my hair feeling soft and clean!
Using bentonite clay to get all these, and many other benefits is quite simple. From creating a face mask with it to adding it to your drinking water, bentonite clay can be healthy addition to living a natural life!
However, you should ask your doctor before consuming bentonite clay, as they will be able to recommend a safe product and amount to use.
Potential risks of bentonite clay
Some bentonite clay products have been found to contain heavy metals, as highlighted by a 2016 FDA warning about high lead levels in a specific type of bentonite clay.
Using large amounts of bentonite clay may lead to side effects, so it’s essential to consult with a doctor before trying it as a treatment.
If you’re using bentonite clay for your skin, do a patch test first on an inconspicuous part of your skin to see if you experience any sensitivity or allergic reactions.
This article was originally written on February 20, 2015 and has recently been updated.
