Bentonite Clay
Volcanic ash, compressed over millions of years into a fine grey-white powder with a silky feel and a faint mineral scent. People have been eating small amounts of it for a very long time.
What It Is
Bentonite is a type of clay formed from weathered volcanic ash. Most of what's sold for food use in the United States comes from deposits in the American West, where the soil runs thick with it. Sodium bentonite carries a mild, almost neutral flavor and dissolves into a smooth, chalky texture when mixed with water.
People across many cultures have traditionally consumed clay in small amounts, a practice called geophagy. It shows up in folk traditions worldwide, from Central Africa to indigenous communities in the American Southwest, usually taken stirred into water or mixed with food.
What To Do
The most common way to use food-grade bentonite clay is stirred into a glass of water. Start with half a teaspoon in eight ounces of water, mix well, and drink it on its own, not alongside other foods or supplements. Use a non-metal spoon and cup if you want to follow traditional preparation closely.
Store it in a sealed container away from moisture. A little goes a long way, and this is one ingredient where more is not better. If you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medication, check with a doctor before adding it to your routine.
