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Activated Charcoal: A Potent Toxin Absorber and Digestive Aid

Back in 1831, the distinguished chemist Professor Touery, of the French Academy of Medicine, drank a lethal dose of strychnine in front of his colleagues and -to their amazement- survived unharmed. He had combined the deadly poison with activated charcoal.

Long before the 19th century, thousands of years ago, both the ancient Egyptians and the Greeks used it as a multi-purpose poison and disease antidote.

What makes charcoal so effective is its ability to attract other substances to its surface and hold them there. Its capacity of absorption in the gastro-intestinal tract is due to its extreme porosity. It is estimated to reduce at least to 60% of poisonous substances being absorbed.

Activated Charcoal is a 100% natural product, obtained from the carbonisation of organic matter like hardwood, coconut, bamboo, peat moss, olive pits, coconut shells, sawdust etc. It begins as regular charcoal and is then activated with oxidising gases, steam or air, at high temperatures. Its vast system of microscopic pores traps toxic chemicals and speeds their elimination from the digestive system. The toxic substances attach to the surface of the charcoal and, because charcoal is not "digested," it stays inside the gastro-intestinal tract and eliminates toxins during bowel movement.

Modern Uses

Modern research has confirmed most of the ancient health uses for charcoal and has discovered new ones. It is a popular ingredient in colon cleansing products and highly recommended for:

Overall body detoxification
Intestinal disorders such as flatulence and gas, colic, indigestion, heartburn and acid reflux
Anti-poison first aid remedy as it neutralises a wide array of poisons, chemicals as well as drugs and other intoxicants
Eliminates bad breath and body odour
Purifies the blood

How to Use Activated Charcoal

When you buy charcoal supplements, please bear in mind that not all charcoal is alike. Numerous companies manufacture activated charcoals with different adsorptive capacities. Recently, several companies have begun manufacturing super activated charcoal, with far greater absorption power than standard the standard ones.

Because of the large volume of charcoal needed, it is easiest to take a liquid preparation of charcoal powder. You can dilute the powder in water yourself. About 20 grams of powder charcoal a day are recommended for general detoxification. You may want to divide this into 2 or 3 doses per day.

Caution: Activated Charcoal will cause your stools to turn black so dont panic. Common side-effects include constipation and less frequently, diarrhea. Do not use it if you are pregnant or suffer from allergies to this group of medicine. Activated charcoal can often prevent medicated substances from being absorbed, so consult with your doctor or pharmacist before taking charcoal if you are on a medical treatment, or take tablets regularly.

More tips on natural bloating and gas relief:

Bloating Causes and Remedies
Zen Secrets to a healthy and flat tummy
Natural Dietary Fibres
Foods That Cause Bloating
Activated Charcoal
Food Combining for Better Digestive Health
Swedish Bitters
Food Intolerance: A Major Trigger of Bloating
Triphala