A number of people are unaware of what is bentonite. Bentonite refers to an absorbent aluminum phyllosilicate, which is like impure clay that mostly consists of montmorillonite. This substance or clay is obtained from volcanic ash. There are various types of bentonite which can be found, which include iron, aluminum, calcium, sodium, magnesium and potassium. The composition of bentonite could vary, based on the geographical location that it is found in. The two main commercial varieties of bentonite include calcium bentonite and sodium bentonite. While the structure of calcium bentonite does not allow it to expand when liquid is added to it, sodium bentonite is quite absorbent, which is why it swells when it is added to water. However, both of them are quite effective, as binding agents. This clay is also available to us in the form of a supplement. The main ingredient of this bentonite supplement is hydrated aluminum silicate. Once this supplement is ingested by a person, the bentonite absorbs water quite easily. Health experts claim that it remains within the digestive tract of the person and there, it inactivates the toxins and binds them, so that they can be excreted from the body more easily.
In the earlier days, people either applied various forms of bentonite to their skin or used to consume it, for medicinal purposes, but gradually, people realized that it could also be used for cleansing the body naturally. Over a period of time, people started mining bentonite on a larger scale, in order to meet its industrial, commercial and medicinal demand. There are several countries that mine and produce this clay together, which can include Australia, France, Greece and Africa. In the United States of America, the main produce of Bentonite is Wyoming and the most predominant form of this clay is Sodium bentonite. Liquid bentonite is also very popular amongst many people, who prefer going in for liquid colon cleansers.
Why do people take bentonite supplements?
Since bentonite can make it easier for the body to get rid of the toxins present in the digestive tract, the most common reason for people to use the supplement is for cleansing the body. Hence, the most common reasons for people to try the bentonite cleanse is for:
Studies indicate that many people use bentonite for internal cleansing, mainly when they suffer from the conditions mentioned above, especially IBS. In fact, it has been seen that the colon cleanse bentonite clay is also very effective when it comes to treating constipation caused by IBS. There are some people who try a colon cleanse with bentonite, to improve the elimination process and to alleviate the symptoms of Crohn's disease. A psyllium bentonite colon cleanse can also help in the treatment of acne and several other health problems, because of the detoxification effect it has on the human body. People have been known to combine the benefits of bentonite, to an internal cleansing diet.
What are the uses of Bentonite?
Research indicates that bentonite can absorb toxins and pathogen viruses from within a person's body. Bentonite in different forms can also be used as active ingredient or filler in personal care products, as well as several medicines. This substance is an integral component of topical anti-irritants, ointments, cream, lotions and compresses. Due to the binding properties present in bentonite, it is good for people who are suffering from metal poisoning too. However, there are many other benefits that have been associated with bentonite, which does not require it to be applied topically or consumed internally.
Because bentonite has such strong absorbing and binding properties, it is great when it comes to clarifying liquids such as wine, beer, juice, honey, cooking oil and in some cases, water too. Just a small amount of bentonite added to these liquids can help absorb the impurities, such as tannins, solids and protein. It then coagulates these impurities so that they can be removed easily or be filtered from the liquid. One of the common applications of bentonite is that it can be used as a sealant for dams, lagoons, ditches and ponds; it is often also used in the form of landfill liner material, since it can prevent water and toxic substances from leaching into the soil. It is also an important component, used in the treatment of wastewater. People also use it as a supplement for animal feed or as a pet litter absorbent. Most manufacturers use bentonite in products such as crayons, detergents, paper, cleansers and cosmetics.
Are there any bentonite cleanse side effects?
Studies indicate that there could be a few side effects experienced after the internal use of bentonite. Some people experience bentonite side effects due to prolonged internal use, whereas others may feel similar effects with the very first use. Some of the most common side effects that have been known to occur may include severe headaches, intestinal discomfort, stiffness in the joint, as well as muscle pain, as the toxins in the body are eliminated. However, it is more likely for the severity of the side effects to reduce gradually, as people continue using bentonite.
Fortunately, there are no side effects that have been associated with the external use of bentonite. In fact, most people, especially women, feel that taking bentonite baths on a regular basis as it cleanses their skin thoroughly, by getting rid of the harmful toxins. Therefore there are many health spas that offer clay baths in which bentonite is the prime ingredient. In fact, there are many holistic healers, who advise people to use bentonite on a regular basis. This is because one use of bentonite may get rid of the toxins that are present in the body, but cannot prevent the toxins from invading the body again.
In spite of all the bentonite clay and liquid bentonite benefits mentioned above, it is absolutely essential for all people to consult a doctor and get a go ahead before deciding to add this supplement to their diet, or even if they want to try an intestinal colon cleanse on a one off basis. In case a person experiences any of the side effects that could be seen after the liquid colon cleanse process, it is important for people to consult a doctor, without any delay.
Warning: The reader of this article should exercise all precautionary measures while following instructions on the home remedies from this article. Avoid using any of these products if you are allergic to it. The responsibility lies with the reader and not with the site or the writer.