The use of activated charcoal as a supplement has risen in popularity over the last decade. You may have even seen this tar black powder added to smoothies and slices at your local organic cafe!
Activated charcoal is different to the charcoal you barbeque with, which contains chemicals and toxins. It is a natural product produced through the decomposition of carbon-based substances, including coconut shells and peat (vegetable matter).
Activated charcoal has been used traditionally to improve intestinal health and mop up toxins from the body for thousands of years. Conventional medicine even caught onto its detoxifying powers in the early 1800’s when doctors started using it as a treatment for patients that were poisoned or had overdosed.
How does activated charcoal remove toxins from your body?
By a process known as adsorption, which is different to absorption. Activated charcoal has a porous texture which gives it a large surface area and is negatively charged so it can bind positively charged toxins and trap them. When you take activated charcoal orally, it isn’t absorbed. It travels to the gut where it traps toxins, chemicals, mould and gases, removing them from the body via bowel movements.
What are some of the benefits of using activated charcoal?
~ Improves the health and function of your digestive tract and body by cleansing it of toxins, including pesticides, heavy metals and mould that are associated with inflammation, oxidative stress, weakened immunity and can cause allergic reactions
~ Cleanses the digestive tract without disrupting the balance of your gut microbiota
~ By removing toxins, it takes the pressure off the kidneys and liver, improving their function
~ Can reduce flatulence and bloating by trapping gases that are produced by bacteria in the gut
~ May reduce bad (LDL) cholesterol by binding to cholesterol-containing bile acids in the gut
~ You can even use it to whiten your teeth – simply apply activated charcoal to your toothbrush, brush your teeth and rinse!
Have a look at the Hana shop for the Cymbiotika Activated charcoal. A perfect product for mopping up toxins that have been mobilised during your sauna session.
Written by Shaz Andrew, Naturopath & Holistic Nutritionist