Calcium Bentonite Clay Benefits

Calcium bentonite clay contains calcium, magnesium, sodium and trace amounts of a number of other minerals. The clay is made from volcanic ash deposits that have settled on the earth. The ash has settled over the course of hundreds to thousands of years, which allows a variety of the earth's nutrients to be absorbed. While the absorption process is taking place, clay is formed. Calcium bentonite clay has several purported benefits, including the ability to detox the body by absorbing toxins from the body.

Calcium bentonite clay can be used to aid in the relief of gas, bloating and constipation. Irritable bowel syndrome patients who took oral calcium bentonite supplements reported relief from the discomfort and pain associated with the disease, according to the Digestive Tract Research Group. The Singapore Medical Journal also states that taking calcium bentonite acts as a laxative. Other digestive uses include using calcium bentonite as a treatment for metal poisoning, food poisoning and dysentery.

Calcium bentonite clay can be used as a compress to help soothe wounds, cuts, muscle damage, bruises and pain associated with carpal tunnel. When preparing a compress from calcium bentonite clay, simply combine the clay with water and mix it until it has the consistency of mud. Once the solution has been mixed, simply apply it to the area that is in pain. Other external conditions that respond to bentonite treatments include rashes, psoriasis and eczema.

When it mixes with water, calcium bentonite swells and becomes inert. Mixing the clay with water and consuming it is frequently used to cleanse and detox the body internally. The clay swells while inside the body, causing toxins to become attracted to it. Once the toxins are attracted, they are absorbed into the clay and passed through the body through the feces. Since the clay is inert, it will not change its structure before passing through the bowels.

Because of the binding properties of calcium bentonite clay, it is often used in a variety of commercial beauty products. Some of these recipes are used as a treatment for dark circles under the eyes and for deep cleaning facial masks. Because of its ability to draw toxins and dirt from the pores, clay masks are often used as an acne control treatment. Some of the other cosmetic uses for calcium bentonite clay include treatments for blemishes, cellulite, eczema and wrinkles.