Bentonite Clay is commonly used as a mask for skin or hair, but surprisingly some people eat it too! Does it have benefits for the intestines or digestion? What are its benefits for skin, hair and teeth? And what are its potential harms?

What is bentonite clay?

This type of clay originates from volcanic ash, and is named after the American city of Fort Benton, where this type of clay is found in large quantities. This clay may also be called limestone bentonite clay.

The use of this clay dates back to a long time, and for various purposes, including those related to the skin or as a treatment for some problems such as gas, according to the followers of folk medicine, but does this clay have benefits?

In general, this clay enjoys a great spread today, and it is used in many cosmetics, in addition to the fact that it is found in different forms, including:

• Lotion or shampoo.
• face mask.
• food supplement
• toothpaste.

Bentonite clay benefits

Some studies have shown that this clay can have a benefit in absorbing toxins that the body is exposed to, and the benefit of this clay varies according to the way it is used, a small amount of it may be eaten in order to rid the body of some harmful elements in it.

Or it is applied topically to the skin or used in skin care products, to make them more effective and beneficial.

Bentonite clay benefits for skin

This clay helps absorb oils and dirt on the skin. Excess fats in the skin may cause acne, and this clay may help solve some skin problems such as:

But we advise the importance of consulting a doctor in the event of any skin disease, and not to stop any treatment prescribed to you on your own.

bentonite clay for hair

With regard to hair, some may use it as a hair mask, but it has not been proven to be good or effective in smoothing hair or cleaning it properly.

bentonite clay for intestines

Some may take a little supplement of this clay, and it may have a benefit in promoting good bacteria in the intestines, according to a study conducted on animals. As for humans, it may be used to treat the problem of diarrhea, whether persistent or temporary, and in general, more studies are still needed to confirm.

bentonite dental clay

Some users of this clay in toothpaste believe that it can benefit both gums and teeth, as it can help remove toxins and purify the mouth, but there is still a need to be sure.

How is bentonite used?

Either by eating it, where it is available bentonite clay capsulesIt is believed that it can fight bacteria and help cleanse the body of toxins such as lead, but it is best to first consult a doctor before taking the capsules.

Or by applying it to the skin, where it is made as a mask of clay powder, by adding purified water to the powder, and making a paste that is distributed on the face, and the mask is left for 10 minutes, then it is gently removed from the face through a wet towel.

bentonite clay side effects

Many studies are still needed to ensure the effectiveness and safety of this clay, and doctors do not recommend eating it in its raw form, because it can result in a blockage in the intestine, and it may carry large amounts of some harmful elements of germs and harmful metals such as lead and mercury, so Be careful and prefer not to take it.

This clay should be tried on a part or a small area of ​​the skin first before using it completely on the skin, in order to be sure of the reaction of your skin first, and if any symptoms appear, you must stop and consult a doctor.