Ditch the hand sanitizer and antibacterial soap, and dig your hands into some dirt! Bentonite clay, to be exact… This natural and potent clay is found in locations worldwide and has an array of health and beauty uses. From treating inflammatory bowel disease to acne, bentonite clay is a powerful ally in maintaining your overall well-being.
What Makes Bentonite Clay So Special?
Bentonite clay contains over 60 trace minerals, including calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium, copper, and selenium. One of its most unique properties is its unrivaled drawing power; bentonite clay actively seeks out and binds to toxins within your body, eliminating them and promoting better health. Here are several ways to put this extraordinary clay to use:
1. Bentonite Clay Face Mask for Beautiful Skin
Create your own bentonite clay face mask for clearer, more radiant skin. Mix water and a small spoonful of dry bentonite clay (usually a 1:3 ratio of clay to water) to form a gel-like consistency. Apply the mixture to your face, let it harden for 20-30 minutes, and then rinse it off. The clay helps to draw out impurities such as dirt and oil, exfoliate your skin, and even out your skin tone, all while keeping your skin soft and hydrated.
2. Detox in a Bentonite Clay Bath
Experience a full-body detox by adding one to two cups of bentonite clay to a warm bath. This luxurious treatment also aids in clearing and healing various skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and rashes.
3. Full-Spectrum Dental Health
Bentonite clay works wonders in your mouth, too. Its toxin-binding properties help to pull out harmful bacteria and promote a healthier smile. Bentonite clay toothpaste is available at most health food stores or can be easily made at home using clay, water, coconut oil, baking soda, sea salt, and an essential oil of your choice.
4. Soft and Shiny Hair with Bentonite Clay Hair Mask
A bentonite clay hair mask is a simple way to achieve healthier, shinier locks. Combine your choice of herbal tea, apple cider vinegar, clay, and your favorite essential oil (or coconut oil) to create a nourishing hair mask. Apply the mixture to wet hair and leave it in for 5-20 minutes without allowing it to dry.
5. Reduce Puffiness with Bentonite Clay
If you tend to have puffy eyes, bentonite clay can help by encouraging your body to drain excess fluid. Moisten the area under your eyes and apply a thick layer of bentonite clay. Leave it on for 20 minutes, and then wash it off. If puffiness is a chronic issue, repeat this process a few times a week for even better results.
6. Get a Healthy Gut with Bentonite Clay
Drink a teaspoon of bentonite clay mixed with a glass of water daily to improve your digestion and cleanse your gut. You can even add a little psyllium fiber for an enhanced gut-cleansing effect.
7. Speed Up Healing with Bentonite Clay
Keep bentonite clay in your first aid kit to help heal cuts, sunburn, bug bites, bee stings, and burns. For most ailments, simply apply a clay mud pack to the affected area, cover it with plastic wrap or cheesecloth, and leave it on overnight.
Finding a reliable source of cosmetic-grade bentonite clay is as simple as searching the internet; many reputable vendors can deliver the healing ash right to your doorstep. By incorporating bentonite clay into your daily routine, you can significantly improve your health and enhance your natural beauty.