Health buzzwords are everywhere at the moment. Sometimes it feels like you can’t open Insta or flick through Facebook without reading about the newest superfood sensation that is guaranteed to reduce bloating or detox your liver or shed unwanted weight or create world peace…..
Ok, I made that last one up.
But you get my drift, right?
You may have heard of Activated Charcoal. Like most people, you may know it has some health benefits. You may have heard it’s good for whitening your teeth? Perhaps you’ve heard about it being used in hospital emergency departments when people overdose.
But how on earth can it be of use to you? Do you even need to add it to your health regimen? If so, how will you know what to buy or how to use it?
Activated charcoal is a popular addition in many health-conscious homes. Many people have found applications that work for their individual needs and uses.
As mentioned, charcoal is most commonly used in emergency departments and administered in cases of poisonings and overdoses. The charcoal doesn’t, as commonly assumed, induce vomiting or absorb toxic substances, it adsorbs (attracts the toxic substance and ‘holds’ it on the surface of each charcoal molecule before expelling it from the body safely).
It is this process of adsorption that has made activated charcoal a popular bathroom cabinet addition to many homes.
People use charcoal for everyday cleansing, both internally and externally for a wide range of reasons.
Here are 4 common ways people use activated charcoal, to get you started:
1. Adsorbing toxins / excess medications:
As mentioned, activated charcoal (with its negatively charged molecules) has been shown to adsorb toxins (which are positively charged), causing them to adhere to the surface of the charcoal until the body naturally expels the unwanted elements from the body through the digestive system. (Of course, if you are concerned about potential ingestion of toxic substances, you should always consult your medical specialist and in emergencies, dial 000)
2. Cosmetic / hygiene purposes:
Activated charcoal is commonly found in cosmetic and personal hygiene products such as toothpaste, face masks, shampoos and even some deodorants. Watch the blog for future posts about making your own products, cheaply and easily, in your own home!
3. To relieve bloating and stomach discomfort:
Many people have tried using activated charcoal to assist with abdominal discomfort and reported positive results. As it does act as an eliminating agent for medications, use caution when ingesting to make sure it doesn’t interfere with any prescription or pharmacy recommended medicines you may be taking.
4. Insect stings or bites:
Mixing a little activated charcoal powder with water to create a poultice and applying to the affected area is said to assist in drawing out any residual venom. (As with toxic substance ingestion, always connect with medical professionals and dial 000 in case of an emergency.)
Remember, it is SO important to look for the highest quality activated charcoal you can afford, especially if you are going to be ingesting it! There are many grades available so be careful to choose only premium grade products that are certified as being safe for consumption.
Much love, Kali x
Have you tried activated charcoal before? I would love to hear about your experiences. Leave a comment or send me an email at kali@healthyhacks.com.au.
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