You may have seen the term "activated charcoal" popping up everywhere lately, from health drinks to beauty products to cleaners and it is gaining popularity.
What is activated charcoal?
Activated charcoal (also known as activated carbon) is a material that is produced from different carbon sources, such as wood, bamboo, or coconut shells. When these carbon sources are treated with extremely hot temperatures, a chemical reaction occurs whereby the charcoal’s surface becomes very porous and it is given a negative electric charge. It is this negative charge that attracts positively charged poisons, toxins, chemicals and gas.
Why is activated charcoal healthy?
Activated charcoal works by trapping toxins and chemicals, although it doesn't absorb them; instead, toxins bond to its surface, so it has the power to flush out these harmful toxins and chemicals that cause damage to your body. Because activated charcoal is not absorbed, it is flushed away and you reap the benefit of a well-functioning digestive system.
Simple ways to incorporate this powerful black powder into your regimen
Drink it: for the ultimate detox, try a charcoal lemonade. Charcoal doesn't add any flavour to your foods, but it can certainly add a lot of cleansing power. In addition to flushing away toxins and chemicals, a recent study suggests that activate charcoal has the ability to lower levels of bad cholesterol.
Breakfast: in your next morning smoothie, consider adding activated charcoal to help wash away toxins caused by environmental pollution, processed foods and pesticides. Activated charcoal also has the added benefit of soothing an upset stomach, treating acid reflux and reducing stomach bloat.
Add colour: make a statement in your culinary creations by taking advantage of activated charcoal's deep onyx hue and colour your foods naturally, without the use of harsh dyes.
Apply it: scrub away dirt and remove toxins from your skin using a facial cleanser or mask made out of activated charcoal or apply it topically to treat body odor, blemishes, insect bites and rashes.
Brush with it: brighten your smile and whiten your teeth without the use of harsh chemicals. Brush with powdered activated charcoal 2-3 times per week to receive the benefits.
