What is activated charcoal?
Activated charcoal is wood that has been set on fire and then been put out at it's hottest, when the wood is burning red, and is starved of oxygen by covering it with sand or the like, thereby creating a very porous surface which allows for a large surface area for toxins to adhere to.
How does it work?
Activated charcoal has a negative charge so it attracts anything with a positive charge, including toxins, poisons, venoms, chemicals, detergents, etc.. It will also absorb medical drugs so care should be taken to not take charcoal at the same time as the medication.
Benefits
Detoxifies the body
Settles nausea quickly (nausea as a result of indigestion or a stomach bug)
Whitens teeth
Draws out poisons
Helps clear out the skin
Lessens flatulence
Suggested to lower cholesterol
Diarrhoea
and more
Side Effects
Black stools (this is not a problem, in fact it's a good way to check your stool transit time)
If taken in very high doses it could cause constipation
How to use it...
Topically - Make detox poultices (see our vlog or watch on YouTube) and apply to affected area. A large charcoal poultice can be applied to the abdomen when going through a detox to assist with the side effects and facilitate the cleanse.
Internally - Activated charcoal comes in powder, tablets, and capsules. The powder is the most effective form as it gets ingested ready to act as well as it can be taken in more concentrated doses. (see notes below for cautions)
Internal use dosages - 1-2tsp in a glass of water. This can be repeated a few times in the day if necessary. (see caution notes below)
internal use dosages for children - halve the adult dose
Important things to note
Charcoal is NOT a cure all - even thoough it's uses are extensive
Do NOT try treat drug overdoses or posionings at home! Seek medical help immediately.
Charcoal should NOT be taken at the same time as other medication as it will absorb the medication and nullify its effects
Charcoal is totally safe as long as it's used as recommended.
When using charcoal in its powdered form it's important to NOT inhale the charcoal. As it's a very fine powder it easily poofs into the air so care should be taken when working with powdered charcoal to not inhale it as this could cause respiratory challenges. If this happens you should seek medical advice straight away. It shoud be mixed well into the water with no residue left on the surface before drinking.