Bentonite clay is a natural clay derived from volcanic ash that has aged over time, forming a highly absorbent material rich in minerals such as calcium, magnesium, silica, sodium, copper, iron, and potassium.
It is named after Fort Benton, Wyoming, where one of the largest known deposits is found. Bentonite clay is widely used in natural wellness practices for its detoxifying, healing, and skin-rejuvenating properties.
How Does Bentonite Clay Work?
Bentonite clay has a strong negative charge, making it effective at attracting and binding positively charged toxins, heavy metals, and impurities. This ionic exchange helps remove unwanted substances from the body when applied externally or consumed internally.
Health Benefits of Bentonite Clay
1. Detoxification and Heavy Metal Removal
Due to its ability to bind to toxins, bentonite clay is often used as a natural detoxifier.
It can absorb heavy metals such as lead, mercury, and cadmium, preventing them from accumulating in the body.
2. Improves Digestion and Gut Health
Relieves digestive issues: Helps with bloating, gas, acid reflux, and constipation by balancing gut bacteria and removing toxins.
May assist with leaky gut syndrome: Forms a protective barrier in the intestines, reducing irritation and inflammation.
Aids in food poisoning relief: Can absorb and neutralize harmful bacteria and toxins in the digestive tract.
3. Supports Skin Health
Acne and blemish treatment: Absorbs excess oil, unclogs pores, and draws out impurities from the skin.
Eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis relief: Reduces inflammation and irritation when applied as a mask or added to bathwater.
Natural exfoliation: Removes dead skin cells, promoting a smoother, more even complexion.
4. Promotes Oral Health
Whitens teeth naturally: Removes stains and toxins from the surface of the teeth.
Fights bad breath: Absorbs bacteria and toxins that cause halitosis.
Reduces gum inflammation: Can be used as a natural toothpaste or mouth rinse.
5. Alkalizes the Body
Rich in minerals, bentonite clay helps balance pH levels by reducing acidity in the body, supporting overall wellness.
6. Enhances Wound Healing
Soothes minor cuts, burns, and insect bites: Creates a protective layer, reduces infection risk, and speeds up healing.
Stops itching and irritation: Can be applied as a poultice to relieve itching from poison ivy, bug bites, and rashes.
7. Supports Joint and Muscle Health
Reduces inflammation: Can be applied as a compress to ease joint pain and muscle soreness.
Draws out toxins: Beneficial for those with arthritis or chronic pain conditions.
8. Supports Hair and Scalp Health
Detoxifies the scalp: Removes product buildup and excess oil.
Encourages hair growth: Provides essential minerals that nourish hair follicles.
Improves scalp conditions: Helps with dandruff and itchy scalp.
How to Use Bentonite Clay
1. Internal Use
Drink with water: Mix 1 teaspoon of food-grade bentonite clay with 8 ounces of water and drink on an empty stomach.
Add to smoothies: Blends well with juices or detox drinks.
Use as a digestive cleanse: Helps with gut health and detoxification.
2. External Use
Face mask: Mix with water or apple cider vinegar and apply to the face for 10–15 minutes before rinsing.
Bath soak: Add ½ cup to warm bathwater for a detoxifying soak.
Body wrap: Apply to the skin and wrap with a warm towel to promote detoxification and lymphatic drainage.
Poultice for wounds and bites: Mix into a paste and apply to affected areas.
3. Oral Care
Natural toothpaste: Mix with coconut oil and baking soda for a remineralizing toothpaste.
Mouth rinse: Swish with a clay and water mixture for oral detox.
Precautions and Side Effects
Use only food-grade bentonite clay for internal consumption.
Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration, as clay can absorb water from the digestive tract.
Do not consume in large amounts—excessive use can lead to mineral imbalances or constipation.
Avoid if pregnant or nursing unless advised by a healthcare professional.
Consult a doctor before use if you have kidney disease, as it contains trace minerals that could affect kidney function.
Bentonite clay is a versatile and powerful natural remedy with a range of health benefits. Whether used for detoxification, skin care, digestive health, or oral hygiene, it offers a natural way to support overall wellness.
However, proper usage and sourcing (ensuring it's food-grade for internal use) are essential to avoid adverse effects.
Bentonite clay is a versatile natural substance known for its detoxifying and healing properties. When considering its use, it's essential to choose reputable brands and follow appropriate recipes to maximize its benefits safely.
Reputable Bentonite Clay Brands
Here are some well-regarded bentonite clay brands known for their quality and purity:
Redmond Bentonite Clay
Sourced from ancient volcanic ash deposits in Utah, this clay is a blend of calcium and sodium bentonite, free from additives, fragrances, or preservatives.
Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay
Popular for its deep pore cleansing properties, this 100% natural calcium bentonite clay is sun-dried and suitable for facial and body masks.
Mountain Rose Herbs Bentonite Clay
This untreated sodium bentonite clay is mined from natural deposits and is suitable for external use, such as facial masks and poultices.
Molivera Organics Bentonite Clay
A pure sodium bentonite clay from Wyoming, ideal for detoxifying skin treatments and promoting a clearer complexion.
Akamai Living Clay
This food-grade calcium montmorillonite bentonite clay is minimally processed and rich in bioavailable minerals, suitable for internal and external use.
Note: Always ensure the bentonite clay is labeled as food-grade before considering internal use. Consult with a healthcare professional prior to internal consumption.
Bentonite Clay Recipes
Here are some popular recipes for using bentonite clay both externally and internally:
1. Detoxifying Face Mask
Ingredients:
1 tablespoon bentonite clay
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
A few drops of water (if needed)
Instructions:
In a non-metal bowl, mix the bentonite clay and apple cider vinegar until a smooth paste forms. Add water if necessary to achieve desired consistency.
Apply an even layer to the face, avoiding the eye and mouth areas.
Leave on for 10–15 minutes or until it starts to dry.
Rinse off with warm water and pat dry.
Benefits: This mask helps draw out impurities, unclog pores, and exfoliate dead skin cells, promoting a clearer complexion. misswish.com
Resources for face mask recipes:
2. Soothing Skin Cream
Ingredients:
1/2 cup bentonite clay
1/2 cup filtered water thecuriouscoconut.com
1/4 cup shea butter
1/4 cup coconut oil
10 drops lavender essential oil (optional) misswish.com+1cbd-medic.com+1
Instructions:
Melt the shea butter and coconut oil in a double boiler until fully liquefied.
Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
In a separate bowl, mix the bentonite clay and water to form a paste.
Combine the clay mixture with the melted oils, stirring continuously until well blended.
Add lavender essential oil if desired and mix thoroughly.
Transfer the cream into a glass jar and let it set.
Benefits: This cream can soothe irritated skin, reduce inflammation, and provide moisturizing properties.
Resources for skin cream, mask recipes:
3. Internal Detox Drink
Ingredients:
1/2 teaspoon food-grade bentonite clay
8 ounces filtered water
Instructions:
In a glass, add the bentonite clay to the water.
Stir well using a non-metal utensil until the clay is fully dissolved.
Let the mixture sit for 5–10 minutes.
Drink on an empty stomach, preferably in the morning.
Benefits: This drink may aid in detoxifying the digestive system by binding to toxins and facilitating their removal.
Caution: Consult with a healthcare professional before consuming bentonite clay internally, especially if you have existing health conditions or are taking medications.
4. Detox Smoothie
Ingredients:
1/2 cup kefir or yogurt
1 teaspoon food-grade bentonite clay
1/2–1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
1/4 lemon, peeled
1/2 cup fresh spinach
1 cup berries (blueberries, strawberries, etc.)
Water as needed to thin
Instructions:
Combine all ingredients in a blender.
Blend until smooth, adding water to reach desired consistency.
Consume immediately.
Benefits: This smoothie combines probiotics, antioxidants, and more.
Resource(s) for smoothie recipes:
Resources for further study and reading on the health and other benefits of Bentonite Clay:
Bentonite clay has garnered attention for its potential health benefits, including detoxification, skin health, and digestive support. For those interested in exploring the scientific research and detailed discussions on these topics, the following sources offer valuable insights:
Medicinal Clay Overview:
This comprehensive article delves into the historical and contemporary uses of various medicinal clays, including bentonite. It discusses applications in skin conditions, internal uses, and potential side effects. en.wikipedia.org
Bentonite Clay: 11 Benefits and Uses:
This article from Medical News Today explores various benefits of bentonite clay, such as toxin removal, treatment of oily skin and acne, and potential digestive health applications. medicalnewstoday.com
Evaluation of the Medicinal Use of Clay Minerals as Antibacterial Agents:
This research article investigates the antibacterial properties of natural clays, including bentonite, highlighting their potential in treating skin infections. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Bentonite Clay: Health Benefits, Risks, and How to Use It:
This article provides an overview of bentonite clay's health benefits, potential risks, and guidelines on its usage. verywellhealth.com
Calcium Bentonite Clay: Benefits, Side Effects, Uses, Mask:
This Healthline article discusses the benefits of calcium bentonite clay, including its use in detoxification and as a facial mask, along with potential side effects. healthline.com
Bentonite Clay as a Natural Remedy: A Brief Review:
This review article explores the traditional and modern uses of bentonite clay, summarizing scientific studies on its effects on body function. researchgate.net
These resources provide a well-rounded understanding of bentonite clay's potential health benefits, applications, and considerations for safe use.
Potential Impacts and Side Effects of Taking Bentonite Clay Internally on the Liver and Other Major Organs
Bentonite clay is widely used for detoxification, digestive health, and skin treatments, but its internal consumption raises concerns regarding its effects on the liver, kidneys, and other major organs. While bentonite clay can bind to toxins and remove them from the body, improper or excessive use may pose risks.
Potential Effects on Major Organs
1. Liver Health
Risk of Heavy Metal Exposure:
Some non-food-grade bentonite clays may contain trace amounts of heavy metals such as lead, arsenic, or cadmium.
Chronic exposure to these metals, even in small amounts, can overburden the liver, as the liver is responsible for detoxifying and excreting toxins.
The FDA has issued warnings about high levels of lead in some bentonite clay products, advising caution.
Increased Liver Workload:
If bentonite clay effectively binds to toxins, the liver may have less toxic overload to process, which could be beneficial.
However, if impurities in the clay introduce new toxins, this could increase the burden on the liver.
2. Kidney Health
Possible Risk of Kidney Damage:
Bentonite clay contains sodium and aluminum, which, in excessive amounts, may strain the kidneys.
People with kidney disease or impaired kidney function should be cautious, as they may struggle to filter excess minerals and aluminum.
Aluminum Absorption Debate:
Some studies suggest that aluminum from bentonite clay is not easily absorbed into the bloodstream.
However, long-term and excessive intake may increase aluminum levels, which has been linked to kidney dysfunction.
3. Gastrointestinal System
Constipation and Bowel Blockage:
Bentonite clay is highly absorbent and can cause severe constipation if not taken with enough water.
Large doses may lead to a bowel obstruction, requiring medical intervention.
Nutrient Absorption Issues:
Since bentonite clay binds to toxins, it may also bind to essential nutrients such as iron, zinc, and magnesium.
Long-term use could contribute to nutrient deficiencies if the diet is not well-balanced.
Detox Reactions ("Healing Crisis"):
Some users experience headaches, nausea, or flu-like symptoms when first taking bentonite clay internally.
This could be a sign of toxin removal, but it may also indicate that the body is struggling to process the clay.
Who Should Avoid Internal Use of Bentonite Clay?
Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women – The impact on fetal development and breast milk is unclear.
Individuals with Kidney Disease – The clay may increase aluminum levels or strain the kidneys.
Those with Iron or Mineral Deficiencies – Long-term use may further deplete minerals.
People Taking Medications – Bentonite clay may bind to medications, reducing their effectiveness.
How to Safely Take Bentonite Clay Internally
If you choose to take food-grade bentonite clay internally, follow these precautions:
✔ Use only certified food-grade bentonite clay to avoid contamination with heavy metals.
✔ Start with small amounts (e.g., ½ teaspoon in water) and observe your body's response.
✔ Drink plenty of water to prevent constipation and dehydration.
✔ Avoid long-term continuous use (take breaks to allow normal nutrient absorption).
✔ Consult a healthcare provider if you have any pre-existing conditions, especially liver or kidney issues.
In summary …
While bentonite clay may support detoxification and gut health, its impact on the liver, kidneys, and gastrointestinal system should not be ignored. The key potential risks include heavy metal contamination, potential kidney strain, and reduced nutrient absorption.
As with any detox supplement, moderation and sourcing high-quality products are crucial for safety.
Disclaimer:
The information provided in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. While bentonite clay has been used for various health benefits, its internal and external use may not be suitable for everyone.
Consult a healthcare professional before using bentonite clay, especially if you have pre-existing conditions such as kidney disease, liver issues, or digestive disorders.
Only use food-grade bentonite clay for internal consumption to avoid contamination with heavy metals or impurities.
Do not exceed recommended dosages, as excessive use may lead to mineral imbalances, constipation, or adverse health effects.
Pregnant or breastfeeding women, children, and individuals on medication should seek medical guidance before using bentonite clay.
The FDA has not evaluated these claims, and bentonite clay is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Use this product responsibly and discontinue use if any adverse reactions occur. Always conduct your own research and consult a trusted medical professional for personalized health recommendations.