At JUST BLENDS we have just listed Bentonite Clay within our top 10 of Superfoods, that’s right a superfood! Because it’s not just good for your skin, the beauty of Bentonite Clay is it can be used inside and out, quite literally!  So what is low down on our Organic, Australian sourced, food grade, super powder?

Used for centuries and known the world over for its ability to absorb and draw toxins and impurities from the body, Bentonite Clay has been a common ingredient in many beauty products, its main use being to pull out oil and impurities from the skin. 

Bentonite clay is a good source of minerals, when ingested these minerals, such as Calcium, Magnesium, Silica, Sodium, Copper, Iron and Potassium, are absorbed into the body and viewed by many as a natural supplement, adding that beneficial mineral boost.  Whilst appreciating the mineral boost, it was Bentonite's ability to protect the healthy bacteria in our digestive tract, which in turn strengthens our immune system, that pushed it into our top ten.  Bentonite clay is superb at combating dietary toxins, & bacteria.  Ensuring a good gut health is vital to maintaining our over-all health and wellbeing and anything that helps with this is a winner in our books! 

But firstly, what is Bentonite Clay?

Bentonite Clay is a natural clay, derived from volcanic ash. It is an odourless cream/grey soft, fine powder, and unlike many other clays, is super easy to work with, and doesn’t stain! Suitable for internal and external use It has been used for thousands of years to remove toxins from the body through adsorption and absorption. 

What’s adsorption and how does it benefit me?
Good question… Toxins and impurities, (such as viruses, fungus, & bacteria, etc) carry a positive charge, whilst Bentonite Clay molecules carry a negative electrical charge. Adsorption describes the process by which negatively charged particles of clay bond with positively charged particles. The clay molecules act like magnets, attracting and holding the toxins and impurities without breaking them down.

And what about absorption?
Most people understand absorption a little better, it is basically the process by which one thing absorbs another. Bentonite clay is like a molecular sponge, absorbing toxins into its stacked layers. Ignoring negatively charged nutrients, absorbent clay (such as Bentonite) only absorbs positively charged toxins and impurities. As the clay leaves the body, it takes the toxins and impurities with it 

Whilst adsorption and absorption is going on this special clay replaces what it takes away with a gift of healthy, strengthening and replenishing minerals, such as Magnesium, Copper, Iron, Silica, Calcium, Potassium and Sodium.

With so many benefits, you can easily make some simple home remedies that won’t cost the earth but will give fantastic results.  Here’s our top 7

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1	Internal Supplement - JUST DIGEST

Used for centuries, in many cultures, Bentonite Clay has been used to provide natural relieve for digestive issues.  Over the years the scientific world has caught up with cultural and traditional habits and science has confirmed why it is so wonderful.  When ingested, Bentonite Clay delivers a host of nutrients that help replenish mineral and vitamin levels and alkalise the body. 

By effectively cleansing the gut of toxins, impurities, chemicals and heavy metals it gently relieves digestive issues such as IBS, constipation and nausea. Over time this will help strengthen your immune system and give a natural mineral supplement.  The powder is super-fine, tasteless and odorless so easy to consume with just water, natural juice or, (our favourite) throw into a smoothie as you won’t even realise it’s there!

No time for a smoothie? Why not try adding it to your morning juice (orange, apple, etc)

WATER/JUICE SHOT

• Add 1 tsp of the Bentonite Clay into a glass.
• Add a small amount of juice and mix with a wooden or plastic spoon.
• Once the clay has fully dissolved add a little more juice
• Enjoy!

Please note:  Take Bentonite clay at least 2 hours before or after taking any medications. Because it can adsorb other molecules, Bentonite clay may bind to some medications and reduce their effectiveness.  It’s important to keep track of any supplements you take, and see how your body reacts to it.  Adjust as you or your physician sees fit.

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2	Face Mask – JUST GLOW

Time to get that glow on! Probably one of its most popular uses, Bentonite Clay Masks can help combat a variety of skin issues from dryness, acne, dullness and other conditions such as eczema or dermatitis. A clay mask detoxes your skin from chemicals and heavy metals and if you think ‘that’s ok I don’t come into contact with any of that’… simply think of air pollution and make up chemicals! 

The benefits for giving yourself 10 minutes with this wonder powder include:

• Deep cleanse of your pores
• Fights blemishes and acne
• Reduces the appearance of acne scarring
• Balances your overall complexion
• Reduces dark spots
• Absorbs excess oil and aids ongoing sebum production
• Rejuvenates your skin 

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3	Dental Care - JUST SMILE

Having antibacterial properties means that a simple Bentonite clay paste could easily be used as a natural toothpaste.  Adding mint to the ingredient list ensures the more favourable minty taste we all have come to expect, but Bentonite's clay’s binding properties means that it is a powerhouse when it comes to removing unwanted substances from around our teeth and gums.

Bentonite Clay can help your smile shine brighter than before!  But it isn’t just great for teeth, your gums will thank you too! It makes an excellent mouthwash and toothpaste due to it absorbing and neutralising bad bacteria. Don’t let the soft fine powder fool you, it is a powerhouse when it comes to removing unwanted substances from around our teeth and gums, fantastic for plaque removal, teeth remineralisation and giving your whole mouth a total clean!  It also has an alkalising effect, which is fantastic as many of the foods we eat can create excess acidity in our mouths. 

Being totally natural, means you don’t have to worry about any nasties and the taste is mild enough that even the kiddies will be happy to join in.  You can make your own recipe toothpaste by adding mint to the ingredient list ensures the more favourable minty taste we all have come to expect or simple tap a damp brush into the powder and brush away.

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4	Cleansing Bath Soak - JUST SOAK

One of the best ways to finish off the day is to relax in a bath of warm water. Adding Bentonite Clay will turn your bath into a soothing, detoxifying bath soak that will help draw out impurities and excess oil.  Your skin will feel smoother, softer and have a deeper level of hydration. 

• Add ½ to 1 cup of clay to a running bath, add a few drops of your favourite essential oils for that total relaxation experience OR ALTERNATIVELY,
• Mix 1 part clay to 3 parts water and combine to form a mask – either apply as a body mask before getting into the bath or alternatively add the mixture into hot water, swirling to ensure it dissolves evenly, soak for 20 minutes and then rinse off.

JB Tip:  It’s always a good idea to run some hot water after letting the bath water out, obviously this is clay and can set if left in the drains.  Running hot water straight after use ensures you have no problems.

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5	Oh Baby, Baby! - JUST GENTLE

Bentonite clay powder makes a very soothing baby powder for use when there is an infection or redness.  The powder is super-fine, silky smooth and is odour free.  It can also be made into a simple clay mask to help speed recovery if the area is particularly inflamed.

Nappy Rash - Let’s get serious, nappy rash is no joke, for either baby or the parents!  Using an all-natural nappy rash cream is a life saver, not only because you appreciate not putting any chemicals on bub but also because it works!  Several studies have shown Bentonite Clay to have very effective results in curing nappy rash.  One study showed an impressive 93% of the infants who received the Bentonite mix started recovery in the first 6 hours.  More impressively, 90% were completely improved in the first 3 days.  Read here for our gorgeous homemade cream (tried, tested & used for years!) that has been a faithful in many households, this can be kept on hand and used as often as required. 

Baby Powder - Natural Silky-Smooth Baby Powder – for babies over 3 months.  Many people have had concerns over shop bought talcum powder, but did you know that Bentonite Clay can be used in replacement?  Our recipe infuses the clay with Lavender oil and is perfect for both babies and adults alike.  The natural healing properties of the clay also make this perfect for those suffering from eczema,| chickenpox, and psoriasis.  

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6	Scalp Detox - JUST SO CLEAN

Bentonite Clay is one of the best ingredients for detoxing your scalp due to its ability to absorb impurities and toxins.  When combined with apple cider vinegar and soothing natural oils you have a mask that can combat dandruff, promote new hair growth and soothe the scalp whilst removing the day-to-day pollution.

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7	Foot Mask - JUST DETOX

If you haven’t time for a clay bath why not opt for a foot mask?  A simple, yet effective way to draw toxins, a foot mask is one of the safest ways to detox the body and has been used for centuries the world over.   A natural remedy, using only natural ingredients, this will leave your feet and body thanking you! 

Ingredients:

3 tbsp JUST BLENDS Bentonite clay
3 tbsp apple cider vinegar
3-5 Drops 100% Lavender Essential Oils or essential oil of your choice

A washcloth or soft bristle brush
Non- Metallic mixing bowl and mixing tool (spoon, spatula)

Use a ceramic bowl and wooden spoon (or your finger/back of the mask brush) to mix your mask.  Do not let Bentonite clay come into contact with any metal as it can effect it’s ionisation, which can diminish its effectiveness.

Directions

1. Combine, in a non-metallic bowl, the Bentonite Clay and Apple Cider Vinegar. Once you add the vinegar to the clay, it will begin to bubble and fizz which is normal. You may choose to add water instead of vinegar, this is fine but you may find the mask will not be as smooth.
2. Once the clay and vinegar are thoroughly mixed, add 3-5 drops of your favourite essential oils and mix well.
3. Apply half of the mixture to the bottom of one foot and a thinner amount on the top of your foot up to your ankles. Repeat on the second foot.
4. Let dry for 10-15 minutes.
5. Rinse off feet in lukewarm water. You may need to use a washcloth or a soft bristle brush to help remove the clay.

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8	For Bites | Sunburn | Eczema | Chickenpox | Psoriasis - JUST SO SOOTHING

Applying a paste of Bentonite clay and water to any skin irritation like blemishes, insect bites, cuts, skin itching, or burns will instantly soothe and calm the area.  Particularly calming for skin itching from eczema, psoriasis, or chickenpox.  You can make up a simple mix, apply a thick layer and wash off once dry or in more severe cases you can make a clay wrap or pack, where once the mix is applied you wrap the area in clingfilm and keep it on overnight.

For bug bites
1 tbsp Bentonite Clay
1 tbsp filtered water

Simply mix together and apply a thick layer to the bite(s) 
Leave for 10-15 minutes and wash off. infections.
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PRECAUTIONS

• Take Bentonite clay at least 2 hours before or after taking any medications. Because it can adsorb other molecules, Bentonite clay may bind to some medications and reduce their effectiveness.
• Always use a plastic, glass or wooden utensils/jar to mix and store Bentonite Clay.
• Always run a little extra hot water down the sink after you poured down any clay mixture.
• It is always recommended, that people with health conditions, should talk with their doctor prior to starting any natural remedy.  
  Please do ensure you purchase from a trusted source – Just Blends provides the finest organic Australian sourced, food grade Bentonite Clay.