Activated black charcoal has been all the rage recently. The good news is that it does have some amazing detox benefits. However, though it’s colour has made for some amazing ice cream and smoothie images on and offline, there are a few things one must keep in mind when using this superfood. While I discuss the benefits and cautions below, also below is an amazingly black blackberry smoothie I made to detox my system after a weekend binge.
The primary benefit of Activated Charcoal is its ability to help flush out toxins and chemicals from the body that can cause damage. Though it can be made from a variety of sources, the recommended source for natural healing, is activated charcoal made from coconut shells or other natural sources such as bamboo.
Below are three internal and three external benefits that you may find useful.
INTERNAL
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Detoxify your system. One of the main benefits activated charcoal provides is its ability to stop the absorption of harmful and hazardous compounds in the body, while also absorbing and removing dangerous elements from the body. Taking an activated charcoal capsule supplement or 1 tsp of the powder dissolved in 1 cup of water, can provide detoxification benefits that result in greater energy, improved cognitive functioning, increased immunity.
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Cleanse the digestive system. Activated charcoal can be used to detoxify and restore the natural balance of enzymes, vitamins, minerals, and other organic compounds utilized by the body. An activated charcoal supplement, in addition to a diet rich in fresh fruits, vegetables, leafy greens, and lots of water, can cleanse the digestive system naturally.
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Alleviate allergic reactions. Because of its ability to travel safely through the bloodstream and digestive system, activated charcoal is able to absorb the impurities, toxins, and organic compounds that contribute to allergic reactions. When these allergens are removed the natural stability of the body’s function can be restored. Taking an activated charcoal capsule supplement or 1 tsp of the powder dissolved in 1 cup of water, can detoxify and alleviate allergy symptoms, often times within 30 to 60 minutes and can continue to block allergens 24 hours.
EXTERNAL
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Whiter Brighter Teeth. Using about ¼ tsp of activated charcoal on a wet toothbrush to brush a few times per week has been known to naturally whiten teeth, much more effectively than conventional chemical solutions. Due to its ability to absorb toxins helps to eliminate bacteria and pathogens from the mouth and protects teeth against decay.
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A great face mask. Creating a face mask out of activated charcoal (2 tbs charcoal with 2 tbs water) will absorb into your skin and remove toxins, oils, and impurities that can block pore and affect natural oil production in the skin.
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Relieves insect bites. Been bitten or stung by an insect? To relieve the sting, mix ¼ tsp of activated charcoal with ½ tbs of coconut oil, and reapply this to the affected area every 30 minutes until itching and discomfort are gone. Again activated charcoal pulls out the toxins from the bite and soothes the affected area.
And the note of caution!
Because of its great ability to detoxify the body, activated charcoal can interfere with the absorption of nutrients, supplements and prescription medications. It is advised that if you do add activated charcoal to your food, juice or smoothie, that you do this 90 minutes to two hours prior to meals or taking any supplements of medications. From the research I’ve done online, it is also advised not combine activated charcoal with drugs used for constipation as this can cause electrolyte imbalances and other problems.
Overall, it’s great to try activated charcoal once in a while, but be conscious of when you take it, with what and in what quantity. Definitely do your own research before you dive into using it regularly, especially taking it as a solution or in your food. Now to this fab detoxifying smoothie.
