What is bentonite clay used for?
![Bentonite clay is an ancient home remedy that is used for a variety of issues. Bentonite clay is used to treat acne, wounds, ulcers, skin allergies, bloating and diarrhea.](https://images.medicinenet.com/images/article/main_image/bentonite-clay.jpg?output-quality=75)
Bentonite clay, also known as montmorillonite clay or calcium bentonite clay, is an ancient home remedy that is used for a variety of skin issues. It is a fine powder obtained from volcanic ash.
The composition of bentonite clay varies from region to region as per the geographical location. But its main ingredient is hydrated aluminum silicate. Other constituents include minerals such as calcium, iron, and magnesium.
People have been eating or applying bentonite clay on their skin. It is used for treating various health issues such as
Nowadays, bentonite clay is also used as a base in various cosmetics and products of daily use such as
- Toothpaste
- Shampoo
- Cream
- Lotion
- Face masks
What are the health benefits of bentonite clay?
Most of the research studies conducted on the health benefits of bentonite clay have been conducted on animals. Studies conducted on humans are lacking or are insufficient. The clay offers an array of possible benefits, but for which, further research is needed.
As per the current research, bentonite clay can offer the following health benefits
- Removing aflatoxins from the liver
- Providing antibacterial and anti-inflammatory activity on skin infections and ulcers
- Relieving the allergic reactions to poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac
- Alleviating dermatitis
- Soothing diaper rash
- Preventing skin tan or sunburns
Bentonite clay is a good absorbent. It absorbs dirt and oil from the skin and helps cleanse oily, acne-prone skin. The clay absorbs excess water from stools and, thus, can help relieve occasional diarrhea.
Do not substitute bentonite clay for any of the treatments that your doctor has advised. There is not enough substantial research to recommend bentonite clay as the primary treatment for any of the health issues.
Is bentonite clay safe?
It is generally OK to apply bentonite clay on your skin and hair as long as you do not get any allergic reaction. Therefore, before applying on a large part of your face or skin, apply only a little bit first. As the U. S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate the production and labeling of cosmetics, it is difficult to say how the products that contain bentonite clay will turn out after their use. Therefore, you need to try them out by yourself.
There are two reports of bentonite clay causing low potassium levels (hypokalemia)—one in a cat and the other one in a girl after oral consumption. But the side effects can be attributed to the intake of excessive quantities of bentonite clay.
Though safety studies suggest that bentonite clay is safe, there is a possibility they are contaminated with poisonous metals such as arsenic, mercury and lead. The FDA has banned at least two branded products of bentonite clay because of the presence (more than the permissible limit) of lead in them. Hence, always ask your doctor before taking any brand of bentonite clay.
Eating a lot of bentonite clay can be a sign of an underlying condition known as pica. Pica is a compulsive eating disorder to eat items other than food. It is a sign that either your diet lacks minerals or you have a psychological problem.
There is a lack of safety data in specific populations, such as pregnant and lactating women, children, older people and those with specific medical conditions. Hence, we recommend asking your doctor before taking bentonite clay.
![](https://images.medicinenet.com/images/quiz/happiness/happiness-s1.jpg)
QUESTION
Negative emotions are more powerful than positive emotions. See AnswerFDA
Iranian Journal of Public Health
Top What Is Bentonite Clay Used For Related Articles
Acne
Acne is a localized skin inflammation as a result of the overactivity of oil glands at the base of hair follicles. This inflammation, depending on its location, can take the form of a superficial pustule (contains pus), a pimple, a deeper cyst, congested pores, whiteheads, or blackheads. Treatments vary depending on the severity of the acne.Acne Quiz
Acne is the most common skin disorder in the world. If you suffer from acne, you are not alone and many treatment options are available. Learn more about pimples, blackheads, and comedones with the Acne Quiz.Dealing with Adult Acne
Adult acne causes include hormones, medications, makeup, and other things. Adult acne is treated with medications, products, face washes, and home remedies. Use a skin care regimen provided by your dermatologist to treat adult acne.Boost Digestive Health
Upset stomach? Some foods may be the culprits, and bad habits may be to blame. Treat your body right with these simple nutrition tips on how to deal with with diarrhea, gas, reflux, and more digestive ailments.Cuts, Scrapes, and Puncture Wounds
Learn about first aid for cuts, scrapes (abrasions), and puncture wounds, when to see a doctor, if tetanus shots are necessary, and how to spot signs of infection.Diarrhea
Diarrhea is a change in the frequency and looseness of bowel movements. Symptoms associated with diarrhea are cramping, abdominal pain, and the sensation of rectal urgency. Causes of diarrhea include viral, bacterial, or parasite infection, gastroenteritis, food poisoning, and drugs. Absorbents and anti-motility medications are used to treat diarrhea.First Aid: Wound Care for Cuts and Scrapes
Wound care treatment at home involves performing cuts and scrapes first aid including cleaning the injury and applying antibiotic ointment and a bandage. Use wound care products like adhesive bandages, hypoallergenic bandages, sprays, tape, and gauze. If cuts and scrapes don’t heal, see your doctor.IBS-D (Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Diarrhea)
IBS-D or irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea refers to IBS with diarrhea. Symptoms of IBS-D include
- intestinal gas (flatulence),
- loose stools,
- frequent stools,
- abdominal pain,
- diarrhea, and
- nausea.
New non-FDA approved IBS tests may help diagnose IBS and IBS-D. Treatment of IBS-D is geared to toward managing symptoms with diet, medication, and lifestyle changes.
Intestinal Gas and Gas Pain
Intestinal gas and painful bloating are common. Learn about what causes gas pain and how eliminating certain foods from your diet can help relieve symptoms.Skin Problems: Rosacea, Acne, Shingles, Covid-19 Rashes
Learn to spot and treat skin conditions commonly found in adults such as acne, Covid-19 rashes, eczema, shingles, psoriasis, rosacea, hives, cold sores, razor bumps, athlete's foot, and more dermatology details.Skin Quiz
What's that all over you? Skin, of course! Test your knowledge of your most amazing organ with the Skin Quiz!How Do You Get Rid of Diarrhea?
Diarrhea is characterized as loose or runny stools that happen an abnormally high number of times throughout the day. Diarrhea can be linked to autoimmune diseases like Crohn’s or irritable bowel syndrome but is more often a sign of food intolerance (lactose is common), viral infection, food poisoning or other infectious diseases of varying severity.
Is it Normal to Bloat Every Day?
What is bloating in the stomach is it normal to have it daily? Learn the signs and causes of stomach bloating and what to do if your abdomen is distended.What Is Best for Acne Treatment?
The best treatment depends upon the cause of acne and associated factors, such as your age and severity of acne. The treatment options for acne include Lifestyle management, topical (externally applied) antibiotic medications, topical retinoids, oral medications, light treatments, chemical peels, and topical tea tree oil.What Is the Fastest Way to Heal an Open Wound?
An open wound is an injury that includes an external or internal break in your body tissue, usually the skin. Nearly, everyone experiences an open wound at some point in their life. Mostly, they are minor and can be treated with home remedies.What Relieves Bloating Fast?
Bloating is an uncomfortable belly feeling of being too full from food or air. Learn why you feel bloated and how to relieve bloating fast.