Activated charcoal is one of the most remarkable substances in natural health. It adsorbs more poisons than almost anything else known — binding heavy metals, drugs, gases, and chemicals to its surface and carrying them harmlessly out of the body. (Adsorption means substances stick to the surface of the charcoal, rather than being soaked up inside it.)
The surface area is enormous: a single teaspoon has more than 10,000 square feet of it. That’s why charcoal can hold many times its own weight in gases, heavy metals, and poisons. The most effective form is activated charcoal — ground fine and steam-treated to open up its surfaces, making it 2 to 3 times more effective than regular charcoal.
Ancient Egyptian doctors and Hippocrates recommended charcoal medicinally. North American Indians used it for gas pains and skin infections. It was placed in gas masks in World War I to counteract poison gas. Today, activated charcoal is required equipment on many ambulances and is a first-choice antidote in poisoning cases.
It will not work against cyanide, alcohol, caustic alkalies (such as lye), mineral acids, or boric acid. Strong acid or alkali poisons need the opposite pH. In any poisoning emergency, contact a physician or ambulance immediately.
Add 1 teaspoon of activated charcoal powder to an 8 oz glass of pure water and stir. Drink it down (a straw helps with the grittiness). Lower the dose to ½ teaspoon, or add psyllium husk, for anyone prone to constipation. Because food and medications reduce its effect, take charcoal between meals and at least two hours away from any medication.
Mix equal parts activated charcoal powder and flaxseed meal in a bowl, adding water slowly until you reach a toothpaste consistency (about 2 tablespoons of each powder to 5–6 tablespoons water). Spread it evenly over a porous cloth or unbleached paper towel, cover with a second layer, then place over the area and cover with cling wrap. Secure with a bandage and leave in place 1–2 hours, or overnight. Kept moist and warm, the poultice draws toxins out through the skin. Always discard after use — never reuse. Do not apply charcoal directly to broken skin, as it can cause a temporary tattooing effect.
Store activated charcoal in a tightly sealed container, since it readily adsorbs impurities from the air. Never use charcoal from burned toast or briquettes. Don’t take charcoal continuously for longer than about 12 weeks without a break, and never give it to an unconscious person.
Drawn from published medical and scientific literature and provided for educational purposes only. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.
