Bentonite clay is a healing clay derived from volcanic ash. Since it was first discovered in Montmorillon, France, it’s also called montmorillonite clay. I love bentonite clay for external uses like facial masks and as a natural remedy for poison ivy, dermatitis, and diaper rash. However, using bentonite clay internally is more controversial.
Here are my thoughts on bentonite clay for internal use.
Health Benefits of Bentonite Clay When Used Internally
There are two main types of bentonite clay: sodium bentonite and calcium bentonite. Sodium bentonite clay is very absorbent. It’s used for farming and industry because of its ability to increase water retention and create a seal. Calcium bentonite clay is the type of clay most often used for its health benefits.
Detoxifying
Bentonite has great nutritional value. It’s known to provide a variety of minerals, including calcium, magnesium, silica, copper, iron, sodium, and potassium. When dissolved in water, these minerals in bentonite quickly produce a strong electrical charge.
Because of its negative charge, bentonite clay attracts substances with a positive charge. It’s a process called “adsorption.” Toxins like pesticides, molds, and other impurities often carry a positive charge. That’s why bentonite is a common ingredient in toothpaste to whiten teeth, face masks, and skincare.
However, since it is such an effective binder, ingesting bentonite clay may be a helpful part of a detox plan. It does seem to work in practice. Here are a few examples:
- Aflatoxins: Aflatoxins are toxic compounds produced by certain molds. They can grow in water-damaged buildings and contaminate foods like grains. Exposure to these molds can lead to major health problems. The good news is that bentonite may bind to aflatoxins, helping to remove them from the body.
- Pesticides: Bentonite clay may help to bind pesticides that have gotten into the body through food, water, or the environment. Paraquat is one of the most widely used herbicides in the world and one of the most toxic. Bentonite clay is a known paraquat binder.
- Heavy metals: In animal studies, bentonite clay seems effective at binding toxic metals, including lead, copper, and cadmium.
Bentonite clay can help, but it’s just one piece of the puzzle for reducing toxin exposure. Eating organic, using water filters, and avoiding contact with toxins are important, too.
Easing Constipation
Bentonite may help with certain digestive issues, like constipation-dominant IBS. When ingested, bentonite clay swells and forms a gel-like substance. The added bulk stimulates the intestinal muscles, creating “peristalsis.” It helps to move waste through the intestines more easily.
Bentonite clay’s detoxifying properties may help to remove toxins from the digestive tract. As it supports gut health, this cleansing effect can also ease constipation. However, it’s important to be cautious in how much you use. Taking too much or not drinking enough water may worsen constipation.
Soothing Stomach Ulcers
When ingested, bentonite clay can help to form a protective coating in the stomach. The barrier can protect the ulcerated areas from further irritation by stomach acid. It may also help to reduce inflammation and promote healing. Some people have noticed improvement with ulcers. However, it’s a good idea to check with your healthcare practitioner before adding bentonite to your treatment plan.
Skin Health
While it isn’t a direct internal benefit, improving gut health with bentonite clay can sometimes lead to clearer skin. It’s well known that digestive issues and toxins can contribute to skin problems like acne or eczema.
Bentonite Clay for Internal Use
The FDA has classified bentonite clay as “generally recognized as safe” (GRAS) for internal use. They just haven’t approved it for treating specific medical conditions. As mentioned earlier, bentonite clay can be quite effective for detoxification and supporting digestion.
It’s a good idea to talk to your healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, especially if you have underlying health conditions. It can also interfere with certain medications. To be confident about taking it safely internally, be sure your source of bentonite clay is food grade. It should also be tested and found to be low in lead.
Potential Side Effects of Internal Bentonite Clay
Bentonite clay may cause side effects in certain people, especially if not used properly. Here are some symptoms and concerns to be aware of:
- Constipation: Bentonite clay can absorb water in the digestive tract. So, if it’s not taken with enough water, it may lead to constipation.
- Other Digestive Distress: In a clinical trial, some people experienced gas, bloating, abdominal pain, and diarrhea when taking bentonite for 2 weeks. However, those people made up only 10% of those in the study. The other participants didn’t have issues and it didn’t matter if they were taking 1.5 grams or 3 grams per day.
- Nutrient Deficiencies: Bentonite can bind to vitamins and minerals in the digestive tract when taken in excess. Over time, it could interfere with absorption and cause nutrient deficiencies — especially key electrolytes. But at normal amounts (up to 3 grams), it didn’t reduce nutrient absorption.
- Heavy Metal Contamination: Some bentonite clay products contain trace amounts of heavy metals like lead, arsenic, and mercury. Taking contaminated clay can cause serious health issues over time.
Get food-grade bentonite clay and follow recommended dosages to minimize risks.
How to Take Bentonite Clay Internally
Bentonite is easy to incorporate into your daily routine. A typical dose is ½ to 1 teaspoon of bentonite clay powder in 1 cup of water taken once a day. However, some clinical trials have used up to 3 grams daily. It’s a great way to start each day.
Be sure to take it at least one hour before other supplements and medications since it may decrease their effectiveness. It’s also important to drink plenty of water when taking bentonite clay internally. Without enough water, bentonite can be drying and constipating.
Where to Get Bentonite Clay For Internal Use – You can find pharmaceutical-grade bentonite clay that’s low in lead here.
Bottom Line
While I love a good DIY bentonite clay mask or detox bath, I also appreciate being able to take bentonite clay internally. It’s a great natural support for detoxification and promoting a healthy digestive system. As a side benefit, it may even improve skin health from the inside out.
Do you use bentonite clay internally? Has it helped you with anything? Share with us below!?