What is Bentonite? Discover the power of this special clay

More and more people are looking for ways to support their bodies naturally. In that search, bentonite clay regularly pops up as a special mineral. But what exactly is bentonite? Where does it come from, how do you use it, and how does it differ from zeolite?

What is Bentonite?

Bentonite is a naturally occurring clay rich in the mineral Montmorillonite – the component that gives this clay its exceptional absorbent properties. The name is derived from Fort Benton in Wyoming (USA), where Bentonite was first mined on a large scale. This type of clay is now mined worldwide, including in the United States, Europe, and Asia. Although the precise composition may vary slightly from site to site, Montmorillonite always remains the primary component.

What is the difference between the Bentonite of Green Vitality and BentoniteMED?

In our assortment, you will find two products based on Bentonite. Both products consist of a powdered form of the clay type montmorillonite. The difference?
• BentoniteMED: A medically certified clay, suitable for internal use. This variant is extra finely ground and rigorously tested for purity and safety.
• Bentonite Green Vitality: Also ultrafine and of high quality, but not medically certified. However, it is of controlled pharmaceutical quality. Is often used for external use.

What does bentonite clay do internally?

If you want to use Bentonite internally, you can opt for the medically certified one. BentoniteMED. Due to its strong absorbent properties, this product can bind toxins and heavy metals.

In addition, it helps protect the mucous membranes of the gastrointestinal tract because this type of clay swells upon contact with moisture. This creates a protective gel-like layer – also known as the montmorillonite gel film. This gel film can coat the gastrointestinal tract and thus mitigate the effects of harmful substances. Therefore, BentoniteMED is particularly suitable for people with sensitive intestines.

Thanks to these properties and medical certificates, we can share the following approved health claims for BentoniteMED:
•  Supports the body's detoxification processes*
•  Helps remove heavy metals and toxins*
•  Promotes a healthy immune system*
•  Supports healthy digestion*
•  Contributes to general vitality and energy*

What else can you use bentonite clay for?

In addition to internal use, you can also apply Bentonite externally. In that respect, the use of Bentonite is versatile, and also the Bentonite of Green Vitality Very suitable. You can read about common applications for external use below. If you know of another great use, inspire us in the comments at the bottom of this blog.

• Bentonite on the skin: as a clay mask for oily skin with impurities, or as a pack for joint or muscle complaints.
• Bentonite Mouthwash: to bind toxins in the oral cavity (e.g. after amalgam removal) or to support the quality of your teeth.
• Bentonite Bath Additive: for a detoxifying clay bath.

How to use Bentonite?

Do you want to discover the benefits of Bentonite? Then get started. Below, for each mentioned application, we explain how to use Bentonite by briefly describing the dosages and method.

• Internal use BentoniteMED: a standard dosage consists of half a teaspoon up to 2-3 times a day.Add this to a glass of water, stir well, and drink immediately. Tip: Use lukewarm to warm water, as the clay dissolves more easily. Drink extra water throughout the day because bentonite binds moisture.
• External use of Bentonite: make a paste of Bentonite with water or another liquid such as apple cider vinegar or rose water. Apply it to the skin and let it soak in for about 15–20 minutes. Rinse off with lukewarm to warm water. Note: preferably do not use metal – so as not to affect the effectiveness of the clay.
• Bentonite Mouthwash: add 1 teaspoon to a cup of water. Gargle for 30 to 60 seconds and spit out. Then gargle again with water only to completely remove the Bentonite from your mouth.
• Bentonite Bath Additive: add about half a cup to the bath and soak for just under half an hour. Then rinse off your skin.

What is the difference between Bentonite and Zeolite?

The difference between Bentonite and Zeolite lies in their mineral structure. Zeolite is a microporous tuff with a crystal lattice full of voids, whereas Bentonite is a clay mineral with a layered structure. There is also a difference in use: Zeolite mixes easily with water. Bentonite does so less readily and adheres more quickly to spoons or glasses. However, it mixes well using a whisk and/or warm water.

Although Bentonite and Zeolite are both known for their ability to absorb unwanted substances, they each do so in their own way. Bentonite acts like a sponge: as soon as it comes into contact with moisture, it swells and forms a gel-like mass that physically encapsulates substances. Zeolite, on the other hand, has a crystalline, porous structure with a negative charge. This allows it to attract and hold certain charged particles like a magnet. You can read more about Zeolite in our blog: What is Zeolite: super natural support for your gut.

What is Bentonite to you? The answer lies in how you use it: as part of your natural health routine, to support a spring cleanse, or as a skincare product. Whatever your choice, always opt for a reliable, pure variant and ensure you are well informed.

*approved health claims