Activated Charcoal: Cleanse Like an Egyptian . . .
The change of seasons can bring thoughts of a seasonal “cleanse” or “detox.” Sound new and trendy? Actually, it’s not – the concept of seasonal cleanses or different seasonal needs can be found in both the Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) approaches.
Activated charcoal is one ingredient that has been used by healers for thousands of years, with its first documented use in 3750 B.C.E by the Egyptians.
What is activated charcoal?
Activated charcoal is best known for its detoxifying characteristics- its ability to gather certain poisons, heavy metals, and other toxins and flush/remove them from your body.
But what does “activated” mean? Charcoal becomes activated by high temperatures, which remove all oxygen and change its chemical structure to create smaller particles that are ultra-fine and porous.
Removing impurities from your skin
Activated charcoal pulls out micro-particles–like bacteria, chemicals, and dirt–that rest on the top of your skin. As you rinse off the soap or product containing it, you’re also rinsing off toxins!
Another great benefit to adding activated charcoal to your skincare is reduced pore size. By acting as a magnet for debris under your pores, charcoal can make your pores appear smaller and cleaner.
Internal health
Taking activated charcoal orally can create an internal cleanse. Activated charcoal contains small chambers and cavities that capture unwanted gas and toxins. Once the toxins are trapped together, the charcoal safely carries them out through the digestive system.
Studies also suggest that activated charcoal can lower cholesterol levels and may promote kidney function by reducing the number of waste products that the kidney has to filter.
The bottom line
Overall, consider activated charcoal your jack of all trades. It offers multiple detoxifying benefits both internally and externally, and it may even have the potential to lower cholesterol, reduce gas, promote kidney function, and clear your skin. This super versatile ingredient can help with both internal and external cleansing needs, any time of year.
Interested in seeing what activated charcoal can do for you? Try our detox cleansing bar or activated charcoal capsules!
Try this DIY Charcoal mask:
1 activated charcoal capsule
1 teaspoon lavender oil
1 tablespoon honey
3 tablespoons of water
Empty the charcoal capsule in a small bowl then add 1 teaspoon lavender oil, 1 tablespoon honey, and 3 tablespoons of water. Mix all ingredients together until a smoother consistency appears. Leave on your face for 10 minutes then rinse with warm water.