Bentonite Clay (1 lb)

Bentonite is a very old clay that has been used as a remedy for many things. The fine powder forms when volcanic ash ages. It’s named after Fort Benton, WY, which has a lot of it. But it’s found all over the world. It’s also known as Montmorillonite clay after a region in France with a large deposit. And you may hear it called calcium bentonite clay.

People have eaten bentonite clay or put it on their skin for thousands of years. It’s been used to:

Clean or protect skin
Heal skin infections or acne
Treat stomach gas
Ease diarrhea
Today, bentonite is used to make medicine and makeup. You can buy it in powders and pills, too. It’s sometimes used in:

Shampoo
Lotion
Face masks
Toothpaste
Dietary supplements
How Does Bentonite Clay Work?
Bentonite clay adsorbs — it attracts particles, like dirt on your skin. It also absorbs — it takes in a lot of water. It’s used for face masks, and it’s also what makes pet litter clump.

Bentonite has a high cation exchange capacity. That means clay, which has a negative charge, can attract positively charged ions. Those are minerals like magnesium, sodium, and potassium. Bentonite also has aluminum and silica.

It may also attract positively charged toxins in your gut.

Bentonite Clay Health Benefits
Bentonite clay is antibacterial and anti-inflammatory.

It also has trace minerals like calcium, iron, copper, and zinc. Some people eat it to get these nutrients. That’s called geophagy. But the foods people typically eat already have these minerals.

Most of the research on bentonite clay involves animals. Studies show it may lower the amount of certain toxins in the body, like aflatoxins. They’re made by certain molds and can hurt your liver. Some research shows it may remove pesticides and help treat metal poisoning. But more human studies are needed.

You don’t usually need help to clean out your body. Your kidneys and liver already do that. The fiber from fruits and vegetables also helps.

Uses of bentonite clay

It’s used in many ways, but some show more promise than others.

Skin. Bentonite clay works like a sponge on your skin. It absorbs dirt and oil, like sebum. Too much sebum can lead to acne. The antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties may help your skin heal.

Studies show bentonite clay may help with:

Allergic reactions to poison ivy and poison oak
Hand dermatitis
Diaper rash
Skin infections or ulcers
Sunscreen protection