The Healing Benefits of Activated Charcoal

Activated charcoal is a carbon-based compound identical to regular charcoal. But unlike regular charcoal, activated charcoal went through a process to develop low volume pores to trap toxins. Regular charcoal is converted to activated charcoal by subjecting it to heat and gas. A chemical reaction occurs, expanding the structure of the charcoal.

Activated charcoal has many industrial and medicinal uses. In today’s post, we are listing down the healing benefits of activated charcoal:

Prevents Absorption of Poisonous Compounds

There is a reason activated charcoal is part of a first-aid kit for poisoning of any kind. The substance can prevent the gastrointestinal absorption of various toxins and drugs. That’s why in emergency situations, the patient is forced to consume an activated charcoal pill. The charcoal will quickly neutralize the poison before the body has the chance to absorb it.

Activated charcoal is most effective when ingested within the first hour of poisoning. However, this compound does not work on cyanide or alcohol poisoning.

Insect Bites and Bee Stings

Activated charcoal is an excellent remedy for insect bites, snake bites, ivy rashes, spider bites and bee stings. Just create a poultice made with activated charcoal, cornstarch, flaxseed powder and a little water to form a paste. Spread the mixture on the affected area. Cover with a muslin cloth and leave it for the whole day. The next day, remove the mixture and clean the affected area. Make another poultice if needed.

Prevents Skin Inflammation

Activated charcoal is an excellent treatment for all types of skin inflammation. It also works to minimize hormonal acne flare-ups. It also unclogs pores and detoxes the skin. Activated charcoal is also an excellent makeup remover.

To use activated charcoal to treat skin issues, mix half a capsule with a teaspoon of aloe vera gel. Add a teaspoon of distilled or rose water and five drops of tea tree oil. Finish off with a pinch of sea salt and mix well into a paste. Apply the mixture on freshly cleansed face and leave on for at least 20 minutes. Rinse with tepid water and pat dry.

Minimize Bloating, Gas, and Flatulence

Feeling a little gassy after eating beans? Activated charcoal helps minimize gas. It also relieves minor digestive discomforts such as flatulence, nausea, bloating and stomach cramps. However, it’s not advisable to use charcoal periodically to treat digestive problems. It should only be occasionally used to relieve these symptoms.

Purifies the Digestive Tract

Activated charcoal does a fantastic job of eliminating toxins. That’s why it’s often used in various detox treatments. Activated charcoal absorbs harmful compounds and eliminates toxin build-up. Activated charcoal cleanses vary in length, but the average is around a week of detox.

Whiten the Teeth

Can a black powder really whiten the teeth? You bet. Activated charcoal will gently remove teeth stains. Just brush a small amount of the powder using your toothbrush or the index finger. Activated charcoal is virtually odorless and tasteless. However, it can stain clothes!

Do note that you might experience a little teeth sensitivity after using activated charcoal. Any teeth whitening product will weaken the tooth enamel over time. If you start feeling a bit sensitive after using activated charcoal, limit your usage to once or twice per week.