9 Health Benefits Of Activated Charcoal

A form of carbon that has been processed to make it highly porous and adsorbent is known as “activated charcoal” which is frequently promoted as a natural health treatment. Because of its ability to trap substances on its surface, it can be applied in a variety of ways. Here, we’ll go into great detail about what activated charcoal is and how it might benefit your health.....CONTINUE READING

A variety of carbon-rich materials, such as wood, coconut shells, peat, or sawdust, are used to make activated charcoal. High temperatures (typically between 600 and 900°C) are applied to the carbon source during the activation process while other gases, such as nitrogen or carbon dioxide, are present. This process increases the surface area of the charcoal and produces millions of tiny pores, which is what gives it its high absorbency.

Health Benefits and Uses

1. Overdose and Poisoning: This is most commonly used in emergency rooms to treat overdose and poisoning. Many drugs and toxins can be effectively absorbed by them, preventing them from entering the bloodstream. It can help lessen the severity of poisonings and even save lives when used quickly.

2. Gas and Bloating: It is a digestive aid that is used to treat gas and bloating symptoms. It functions by adsorbing substances that cause gas in the stomach, which could ease discomfort.

3. Hangover Relief: Some people use it as a hangover treatment. Although it may aid in the absorption of alcohol byproducts and the alleviation of unpleasant symptoms like nausea and headaches, it cannot be relied upon as the only treatment for a hangover.

4. Health of the Mouth: It is used in some toothpaste and oral care products for its purported teeth-whitening and stain-removing properties. It’s believed to work by adsorbing surface stains and toxins in the mouth.

5. Skin Health: In skincare, face masks, cleansers, and exfoliants frequently contain activated charcoal. It is beneficial for people with acne-prone skin because it is thought to help draw out impurities, extra oil, and pollutants from the skin.

6. Water Filtration: Due to its capacity to adsorb impurities and contaminants like chlorine, pesticides, and heavy metals, it is a common ingredient in water filters.

8. Reduction of High Cholesterol: According to some studies, it can adsorb cholesterol and stop it from entering the bloodstream, thereby lowering cholesterol levels. The evidence is scant, though, and more study in this area is required.

9. Antidiarrheal: A common over-the-counter treatment for diarrhoea is activated charcoal. Adsorbing bacteria and toxins in the digestive system could be beneficial. However, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional before using it for this purpose, as it may not be suitable for all types of diarrhoea.

Important Facts About Activated Charcoal

Though activated charcoal has a lot of health benefits, it is important to take into consideration the following:

• Only a healthcare professional should be consulted before using activated charcoal as a treatment.
• It shouldn’t be consumed right before taking medication because it might affect how well the medication is absorbed.
• To take activated charcoal orally, use food-grade charcoal and take it as directed.
• When using activated charcoal for skincare, use caution as it can be abrasive and can result in dry skin.
• While acute poisonings may benefit from the use of activated charcoal, it is not a substitute for medical care.

In conclusion, activated charcoal is a flexible and adsorbent material with several uses in health and wellness. When considering its use, especially for medicinal ones, it’s crucial to exercise caution and seek advice from a healthcare provider. Activated charcoal can be a valuable tool in emergency medicine and certain health remedies, but it should not be seen as a universal cure-all.