What is Bentonite Clay & How Can it Help You Detoxify?
Reading Time: 5 minutes Bentonite clay, a powerful natural substance formed from volcanic ash, has gained a reputation for its ability to absorb toxins, chemicals, and impurities. It’s become a go-to option for those looking to detox and cleanse their bodies naturally.
Detoxification refers to the process of removing toxins and harmful substances from the body, typically through natural bodily functions like the liver, kidneys, and sweat.
It involves eliminating waste, chemicals, and impurities to support optimal health and restore balance.
Detoxification can be enhanced through specific diets, natural supplements, and lifestyle practices aimed at improving the body’s ability to cleanse itself.
Whether used internally or externally, bentonite clay offers impressive health benefits, especially when it comes to supporting your body’s natural detox process.
If you’re serious about detoxing and want to take things to the next level, check out my 7-Day Detox guide, where I lay out simple steps to help you flush toxins and boost your health.
Ready to learn more? Let’s dive into how bentonite clay can be your detox ally.
What is Bentonite Clay?
Bentonite clay, often referred to as “healing clay,” has been used for centuries by different cultures to cleanse the body and support healing. Its unique properties are primarily due to its high concentration of minerals, including silica, calcium, magnesium, sodium, and iron.
What makes bentonite clay special is its negative charge, which attracts positively charged toxins, heavy metals, and chemicals. This mechanism allows the clay to bind to toxins and remove them from the body.
There are two main types of bentonite clay:
- Sodium Bentonite: This type is known for its ability to swell and absorb water, making it a powerful detoxifying agent. It’s often used in topical treatments.
- Calcium Bentonite: Calcium bentonite is typically used for internal cleansing due to its strong absorptive qualities.
How Does Bentonite Clay Support Detoxification?
Bentonite clay is valued for its detoxifying properties because it works on multiple levels. Its ability to absorb toxins is key to its effectiveness, and here are a few ways it can support detoxification:
1.) Internal Detoxification
When taken internally, bentonite clay can help cleanse the digestive system by binding to toxins, heavy metals, and impurities in the gut.
This can improve digestion, boost gut health, and even promote the removal of harmful substances through bowel movements.
Additionally, it can help regulate pH levels, which supports the balance of beneficial gut bacteria.
Research suggests that bentonite clay may assist in detoxifying the body from aflatoxins and other harmful substances commonly found in food sources. Many use bentonite clay as part of a daily detox protocol to reduce their toxic load and enhance digestion.
2.) Topical Detoxification
Bentonite clay is often applied to the skin as a mask or poultice to draw out toxins from the surface. Its ability to absorb excess oil, bacteria, and impurities makes it an excellent choice for addressing acne, blemishes, and other skin conditions.
Additionally, bentonite clay is commonly used in detox baths, which can help the body eliminate toxins through the skin, promoting overall wellness and relaxation.
3.) Heavy Metal Detoxification
Heavy metal exposure, whether through food, water, or the environment, can lead to a buildup of toxic metals in the body, which may negatively impact health.
Bentonite clay has been shown to bind with heavy metals such as mercury, lead, and cadmium, allowing the body to safely excrete them.
Regular use of bentonite clay can support the body’s ability to eliminate these dangerous toxins.
4.) Oral Health
Bentonite clay can be used as a natural alternative to commercial toothpaste and mouthwash.
It has antibacterial properties and can help remove harmful bacteria from the mouth, reduce inflammation, and promote oral hygiene.
Its alkalizing effect helps neutralize acid, which can prevent tooth decay and gum disease.
Some even use bentonite clay as part of an oil-pulling routine to support overall oral health.
How to Use Bentonite Clay for Detoxification
Using bentonite clay for detox is relatively simple, but it’s essential to ensure you’re using it correctly to maximize its benefits. You also should contact a healthcare provider for additional information on how to use bentonite clay appropriately.
Here are a few practical ways to use bentonite clay:
1.) Internally (Edible Bentonite Clay)
Food-grade bentonite clay is one of the best natural detox drinks.
To use bentonite clay internally, make sure you’re using food-grade bentonite clay.
Mix about one teaspoon of clay powder with water and drink it on an empty stomach
This allows the clay to work through the digestive system, absorbing toxins and promoting bowel regularity. It’s important to drink plenty of water throughout the day to avoid dehydration, as bentonite clay is highly absorbent.
Last update on 2025-04-29 / This article includes affiliate links/Images via Amazon Product Advertising API. I may earn commissions on purchases made through these links.
As another option, you can use bentonite clay capsules, which have been formulated to protect internal detoxification.
Last update on 2025-04-29 / This article includes affiliate links/Images via Amazon Product Advertising API. I may earn commissions on purchases made through these links.
2. Topically (Clay Masks or Detox Baths)
For a detoxifying face mask, mix bentonite clay with water or apple cider vinegar to form a paste. Apply the mask to your skin and leave it on for 10-15 minutes before rinsing off. Bentonite clay masks can be particularly helpful for oily or acne-prone skin, as they absorb excess oil and impurities.
Last update on 2025-04-29 / This article includes affiliate links/Images via Amazon Product Advertising API. I may earn commissions on purchases made through these links.
For a detox bath, add ½ to 1 cup of bentonite clay to your bathwater. Soak for 20-30 minutes to allow the clay to draw out toxins through your skin. This can help relieve muscle aches, improve circulation, and support overall detoxification.
3.) Oral Health
You can mix bentonite clay with water to create a natural toothpaste or add it to your oil-pulling routine. Swishing with a mixture of bentonite clay and coconut oil can help remove toxins from your mouth and promote oral health.
You can also buy toothpaste that contains bentonite clay.
Last update on 2025-04-29 / This article includes affiliate links/Images via Amazon Product Advertising API. I may earn commissions on purchases made through these links.
Precautions When Using Bentonite Clay
While bentonite clay is generally safe for most people, there are a few precautions to keep in mind. When using it internally, always ensure you’re using food-grade clay.
Some individuals may experience digestive discomfort if they take too much, so it’s essential to start with small amounts and gradually increase the dosage.
Additionally, those with underlying health conditions or who are pregnant should consult a healthcare provider before using bentonite clay.
Final Thoughts: Should You Try Bentonite Clay as a Detox Tool?
Bentonite clay is a versatile and powerful tool for detoxifying your body, whether you’re using it to cleanse your digestive system, purify your skin, or eliminate heavy metals.
Incorporating bentonite clay into your routine is one of the many types of detoxification available, and it can help you feel lighter, healthier, and more balanced.
To maximize your detox efforts, bentonite clay works best as part of a holistic approach that includes proper hydration, clean eating, and regular movement.
