Activated Charcoal is known for its healing, prevention, and cleansing properties, but what is it?
When I was younger, the only meaning "charcoal" had was the charcoal inside the BBQ or the color of my eyeliner. But in my years of studying natural medicine and healing foods, I discovered that charcoal is a powerful medicinal agent that everybody should know about.
I am not talking about the bag of charcoal you would find in your local grocery store. That stuff is toxic and should never be consumed. What I am referring to is known as “activated charcoal.” Activated charcoal comes from coconut shells or olive pits. The term “activated” means that it has been heated, which makes it more effective. You can find activated charcoal in powder or capsule form. It is also found in natural toothpastes, soaps, and deodorants.
One of my favorite things about activated charcoal is its ability to get rid of belly bloat and stomach pains, onset by food sensitivities, toxins, or even allergies. How activated charcoal works is pretty fascinating. It works as an “adsorber”. Yes, I said AD-sorber. When something adsorbs, it clings to the surface, whereas when something absorbs, it goes inside. When activated charcoal adsorbs, it acts as a magnet to toxins in your system and they cling to the outer pores of the charcoal. By drinking a lot of water combined with the consumption of activated charcoal, a person is able to flush out toxins because they come out clinging to the charcoal. Make sense?
Here are some other great benefits of activated charcoal:
- Whitens teeth
- Detoxifies the body
- Removes heavy metals and mold from your body
- Helps ease or even prevent hangovers
- Acts as an anti-aging agent when used topically
Activated charcoal comes from natural food-grade sources. Therefore, it is safe to use. Just take it 2 hours before taking any other medication or birth control.
My favorite brand to use is the capsule form made by Source Naturals available in your local health food stores or on Amazon if you live in the mountains like I do.
Try it out and see for yourself!