With barbecue season upon us, chances are you’ve got a bit of charcoal on the brain. But, new to Moberly is a different kind of charcoal: Activated Charcoal. Why would a health food store be carrying activated charcoal, you ask? Well, allow me to explain.
What is activated charcoal?
It really is exactly what it sounds like: charcoal (in our case, coconut charcoal) is processed to be more porous. This process increases the amount of surface area available for chemical reactions. Literally, the charcoal becomes more chemically active.
So what does this mean for you?
Activated charcoal has a special ability known as adsorption. Yes, that’s right. Not absorption, but adsorption. When the charcoal encounters toxins, it doesn’t absorb them, but traps them in its pores and carries them away. We can use this to our advantage in a few different ways.
Food Poisoning
Consumed some suspect sushi? Was that cheese plate sitting out a bit too long? Regretting that mystery meat finger sandwich? Activated charcoal to the rescue! Take with LOTS of water, and make sure to check the”Before Using” information for a list of contraindications. It may react badly with Acetaminophen and other common drugs.
It can also be useful to have on hand in case of other poisonings, but you should always call 911, poison control, or your doctor in those instances. They can tell you if activated charcoal is applicable to your poisoning, and give you an appropriate dose to take.
Avoid taking it internally too often, however, as it can also remove beneficial nutrients from your system.
External Uses
While activated charcoal should only be used internally on occasion, there are many ways you can use it externally.
- Tooth Whitening – mix a small amount of activated charcoal with water, and brush onto your teeth. Pay special attention to areas with plaque buildup or discoloration. Rinse thoroughly with water. Use care with veneers or crowns, as it may cause discoloration to these.
- Remove hair buildup – add a small amount to shampoo, and wash as usual. Rinse THOROUGHLY
- Face Mask – mix charcoal with water and a small amount of honey or aloe, spread in a thin layer over your face, and leave on for 5-10 minutes
- DIY Eyeshadow or Eyeliner – via YumUniverse
Avoid fabric and grout when using activated charcoal, as it can stain both. I recommend getting a black facecloth if you plan on using it regularly. Charcoal can be drying, so avoid using it every day.
Activate Your Life
We have capsules and powdered activated charcoal from our newest supplier Organika, so you can use whichever suits your needs best.
How do you use activated charcoal in your life? Share your best tips with us in the comments below, or on Twitter!
About The Author:
Kelly Boaz, CNP
Kelly is a holistic nutritionist, specializing in eating disorder recovery and food freedom. She is also a public speaker (TEDx King St. West, TDSB) and a writer. Learn more about Kelly, and about booking private consultations at kellyboaz.com Twitter/Insta: @kelly_boaz Facebook: /KellyBoazDotCom