Bentonite Clay

Bentonite Clay — a time-honored beauty and detox essential — is a natural volcanic ash clay prized for its incredible ability to draw out impurities, toxins, and excess oils from the skin and body. When mixed with water or apple cider vinegar, it becomes a smooth, mineral-rich paste that deeply cleanses and revitalizes the skin’s surface.

This Sodium Bentonite Clay forms from ancient volcanic ash and is exceptionally absorbent. When hydrated, it swells like a sponge — pulling impurities through ionic exchange while depositing trace minerals such as calcium, magnesium, silica, sodium, and potassium. Used internally, it supports gut health, digestion, and detoxification, binding to unwanted substances so they can be safely eliminated.

🌿 Traditional & Modern Uses

Bentonite Clay has been used for centuries across continents — from Native American cleansing rituals to ancient Egyptian skincare — as a purifier for both inner and outer wellness. In modern holistic practice, it’s a cornerstone in natural detox programs, facial masks, and even pet care.

💧 How to Use

🧖‍♀️ For the Face & Skin

Mix 1 part Bentonite Clay with 1 part liquid (see options below) in a non-metal bowl and spoon until smooth.
Apply a thin, even layer to clean skin and let dry for 10–15 minutes (sensitive skin) or 20–25 minutes (oily/acne-prone skin).
Rinse thoroughly with warm water and pat dry.
Follow with a light oil like jojoba or rosehip.

Choose Your Liquid Base:

• Water — for gentle detoxification
• Apple Cider Vinegar — for deep pore cleansing and pH balancing
• Aloe Vera Gel or Fresh Aloe Leaf — for calming, hydrating, and brightening (use less water)

Optional Add-Ins:

• Turmeric Powder — reduces inflammation & brightens complexion
• Activated Charcoal — deep pore purifier, clarifies blackheads
• Neem Powder — clears breakouts, supports healing
• Rose Water — adds softness and glow

🌿 For the Body & External Detox

• Bath Soak: Add ¼–½ cup Bentonite Clay to a warm bath and soak for 20–30 minutes to support detoxification and relieve sore muscles.
• Foot Detox: Mix 2 tbsp Bentonite Clay with warm water into a paste and apply to the feet; let dry, then rinse to draw out impurities.
• Hair & Scalp Mask: Combine Bentonite Clay with apple cider vinegar and aloe gel; apply to scalp for 10 minutes before shampooing to cleanse buildup and rebalance oils.

🍵 Internal Use (Food Grade Only)

(Use only Bentonite Clay labeled as “food grade.”)
Mix ½ tsp of food-grade Bentonite Clay in 8 oz (250 ml) of water or diluted juice. Stir with a non-metal spoon and drink immediately.
Follow with a full glass of water.
Best taken on an empty stomach, 1–2 hours before or after meals or medications.

Internal Benefits:

• Supports digestive balance and toxin elimination
• Helps with mild acid reflux or upset stomach
• Binds heavy metals and impurities in the digestive tract

⚖️ Energetics & Taste

• Taste: Mildly earthy, mineral
• Energetic Nature: Cooling, grounding, purifying
• Elemental Association: Earth
• Planetary Correspondence: Saturn (detox, structure, renewal)

💎 Pairs Well With:

• Turmeric Root Powder (anti-inflammatory & brightening)
• Activated Charcoal (detoxifying)
• Neem Leaf Powder (cleansing & purifying)
• French Green Clay (firming)
• Aloe Vera Leaf Powder or Gel (soothing)

⚠️ Caution

Do not use metal utensils or containers when mixing Bentonite Clay, as the clay’s strong ionic charge may draw metals into the mixture.
For internal use, only consume food-grade Bentonite Clay. Avoid use if severely constipated or on prescription medications without consulting your doctor or herbalist.

💬 Note from the Herbalist

“Bentonite Clay is one of nature’s most loyal detoxifiers — whether you wear it, soak in it, or sip it. My favorite mask includes a touch of turmeric and charcoal mixed with aloe leaf and apple cider vinegar — it leaves the skin tight, bright, and renewed. This is your go-to mineral medicine for pulling out what doesn’t belong — physically and energetically.”

— Zaakira Galloway, Herbalist & Founder of Island Roots Botanicals 🌿