If you browsed any herbal blog or scrolled through social media lately, you'll find an abundance of people putting on charcoal masks or brushing their teeth with this magnificent black powder. Apart from its skin and dental care benefits, Activated Charcoal helps to lower cholesterol, cleanse the digestive system and remove toxins from the body.
Though similar, Activated Charcoal is not to be confused with charcoal from cooking. Barbecue Coals are packing with chemicals or toxins, and are not safe for consumption. When using Activated Charcoal, be sure it's made from coconut shells or identified wood species. Avoid Charcoal Powder with artificial sweeteners or additives, as these take away from Charcoal's many healing properties.
1. Digestive Support
Activated Charcoal has the unique ability to bind to toxins and prevent them from absorbing into the body. Once this happens, the toxins can easily be flushed out. This makes it a premier natural detox when it comes to bloating, gas, even drugs and alcohol. Activated Charcoal is actually more effective than gastric pumping when it comes to alcohol poisoning. It even helps to prevent hangovers. It is a must have in any apothecary or medicine cabinet.
2. Support Healthy Cholesterol Levels
One of the most overlooked benefits of Activated Charcoal is its ability to purify the blood and reduce cholesterol. If our diets include dairy or meat, we have to be sure to maintain healthy cholesterol levels. A recent study demonstrated that 24 grams of Activated Charcoal per day can reduce total cholesterol by 25% in one month. In this study, LDL (bad) Cholesterol was lowered by as much as 41%, while HDL (good) Cholesterol increased by 8%. In addition to Activated Charcoal's Cholesterol reducing benefits, it helps to detox the liver and increase healthy function.
3. Dental Health
Activated Charcoal helps to dissolve plaque and other stain causing substances. Regular brushing with this black powder prevents gingivitis and keeps gums healthy. Simply wet your toothbrush and dip it into a teaspoon of Charcoal powder, then gently brush for a few minutes. Be sure to do this at least twice per week for a bright white smile and healthy mouth.
4. Acne Treatment
Probably what its famous for, Activated Charcoal cleans the face or skin of acne causing bacteria and blackheads. In addition, it tightens pores and rejuvenates the skin. To make a Charcoal mask, simply mix a teaspoon of Charcoal powder with one teaspoon of Bentonite Clay, one teaspoon of coconut oil and a tablespoon of water. Next apply the mask to your face and let it sit for 10 minutes. Then gently rinse it off with hot water.
