Activated charcoal is a form of carbon used as a natural method to flush out toxins from the body. What it does is trap the toxins in its pores, preventing the body from absorbing harmful chemicals.
It is used worldwide as a treatment for poisoning and drug overdoses, as well as for reducing cholesterol, bloating, and gas. However, it’s not the same as the type of charcoal you use in your grill.
This one has to be produced from natural sources such as coconut shells.
1. Treats Insect Bites
You can use activated charcoal to treat rashes from poison ivy, poison oak, and insect bites. To treat a bee sting or mosquito bite, just mix half a tablespoon of coconut oil with a capsule of activated charcoal, and apply it to the affected area. Repeat every half an hour until the itching stops.
2. Treats Acne
You can cleanse your pores and clear your acne using a mixture of 2 teaspoons of Aloe Vera gel and a capsule of activated charcoal. Spread it gently on your face, and allow it to dry naturally. Then, just wash it off. All acne-causing dirt from your skin will bind with the activated charcoal, leaving your skin smooth and clean.
3. Helps Lower Cholesterol
According to many studies, activated charcoal can increase good cholesterol and reduce bad cholesterol levels. Research showed that 3 doses of 8 grams of activated charcoal a day, used over a period of 4 weeks reduced the participants’ bad cholesterol levels by 41 percent, but increased the HDL, good cholesterol by 8 percent.
Note: Don’t take activated charcoal 1 ½ to 2 hours of taking any supplement or prescription drug.
4. Whitens Teeth
Activated charcoal can eliminate stains from tea, coffee, wine, or any other food. It also improves the mouth’s pH balance, thus promoting oral health, getting rid of bad breath, and preventing cavities. To whiten your teeth, dip a wet toothbrush into activated charcoal and brush. Sip some water, swish it around your mouth, and spit. Rinse your mouth well. You can repeat this 2 or 3 times weekly for best results.
5. Relieves Gas
The American Journal of Gastroenterology has published a study that shows that activated charcoal can as well be used in the prevention of intestinal gas after consuming a gas-producing meal. To alleviate bloating and gas, take 500 mg an hour before eating such a meal, and drink a full glass of water.
6. Removes Toxins from The Body
As we mentioned, most harmful chemicals and pesticides bind to activated charcoal, preventing their absorption into the body. In cases of drug overdose or poison ingestion, you should call 911 immediately and the patient will be appropriately treated with activated charcoal in the emergency room.
Moreover, activated charcoal can be used as a food poisoning treatment, when the patients have diarrhea and nausea. When symptoms arise, adults should take 25 gr, while children 10 gr.
7. Cleanses The Digestive System
This ingredient can also promote a healthy digestive tract. It eliminates toxins from the body which can cause allergic reactions, poor immune system, or oxidative damage. By removing the toxins from your body, activated charcoal also provides an energy boost, reduces joint pain, and improves mental function. Take 10 gr around 90 minutes prior to each meal for 2 days, if you like to cleanse your digestive system.
You can find activated charcoal in liquid, powder, or tablet form. Don’t forget to drink a lot of water when using it, regardless of the form. Activated charcoal has been shown to lower the absorption of toxins in the body by up to 60 percent. Mix a teaspoon of activated charcoal in a glass of water, and drink to flush out the toxins from your system.
Via David Wolfe | Everyday health | Chiropractor | Everyday Health