Healthcare 101: 5 Healthy Uses for Activated Charcoal
You might have seen activated charcoal on Instagram, Pinterest, and in women’s health magazines as a way to relieve or prevent common health ailments. The reason it is such a trendy topic is due to an array of health benefits. Activated charcoal is a powder made of extremely absorbent activated carbon—this powder traps toxins and unwanted chemicals inside your body, allowing you to flush them out naturally. Here are five ways charcoal – an extremely versatile element – can be used for everything from toothpaste to water filtration. Of course, please consult your primary care doctor or other trusted medical professional before making any changes to your health habits.
1. Relieves Bloating and Gas
How does activated charcoal help with gas?
Because activated carbon allows chemicals and toxins in the body to be flushed out rather than absorbed, it boasts huge gastrointestinal benefits. Charcoal supplements have proven to greatly reduce digestive issues such as bloating, gas, cramps, and diarrhea. How might you use it?
- For maximum benefits, follow these instructions one hour before eating a meal that might produce excessive gas.
- Stir 500 mg of powdered activated charcoal into a full glass of water.
- Drink the entire glass of mixed water and activated charcoal.
- Immediately drink another full glass of water to ensure that the charcoal is absorbed into your system.
2. Activated Charcoal for Purifying Water
Activated charcoal can be found in water filtration systems throughout the world. Although it can trap impurities such as industrial waste, pesticides, and other chemicals, it’s important to note that it doesn’t have the same effect on hard-water minerals, viruses, and bacteria. Using an activated charcoal water filter can ensure that the water you and your family are drinking is free of fluoride, toxins, and chemicals. Note: since charcoal filters can vary by manufacturer, always check the label to make sure the one you purchase will filter out the impurities you expect.
3. Removes Mold
Mold in your home, workplace, and other common areas can have a negative effect on your body’s health. In addition to severe respiratory distress, mold can cause eye irritation, decreased brain function, impaired immune system function, and more. Visible mold in your home can be treated using activated charcoal as well as other natural options such as apple cider vinegar, borax, and tea tree oil. It’s important to wear gloves and a protective mask while using any treatment to remove mold.
4. Treats Alcohol Poisoning
While activated charcoal cannot absorb the alcohol itself, it can remove the toxins often found in alcoholic drinks that contribute to the alcohol poisoning.
Such toxins, or mixers, typically include the following:
- Artificial sweeteners
- Highly caffeinated beverages (such as energy drinks)
- Other undesirable chemicals
By expelling these toxins, the activated charcoal is able to treat the body’s alcohol poisoning. There is also some evidence indicating that if activated charcoal is taken at the same time as alcohol consumption, it can result in a reduction of blood alcohol concentrations.
5. Activated Charcoal Improves Skin and Body Health
Not only can activated charcoal remove toxins from inside your body, it can also do the same for your skin. Today, you can head to the cosmetic counter at nearly any store and find numerous products that contain charcoal. It’s also the star ingredient for natural remedies such as insect bites, rashes, and snake bites.
You can also use activated charcoal for mosquito bites and bee stings
Treating bee stings and mosquito bites with activated charcoal has been shown to reduce swelling and expedite the healing process. Try these instructions to properly use activated charcoal for mosquito bites and bee stings:
- Combine one capsule of activated charcoal with 1/2 tablespoon of coconut oil.
- Mix to make a paste.
- Apply to the affected area.
- Be sure to wrap it with a bandage afterwards due to charcoal’s tendency to stain fabrics.
- You can repeat every 30 minutes as needed.
To speak with a healthcare professional about treatment options and any side effects of activated charcoal, visit www.carespot.com today to find an urgent care near you.