Activated charcoal is known for its ability to bind with and flush out toxins from the body. This is why it’s used in poisoning cases after ipecac syrup induces vomiting.
It’s also a popular remedy for hangovers. But detoxification is typically done by your liver and kidneys, not through detox juices or supplements.
Medicinal Uses
A number of medical studies have found activated charcoal to be a safe, effective, natural treatment for many conditions and ailments. In particular, it can help reduce gas and bloating and has been shown to promote the elimination of certain substances from the body. However, when using charcoal to treat these and other medical conditions, it is important to use a quality product that does not contain any fillers. Additionally, it is not recommended to ingest charcoal if you are taking any prescription medicine.
The porosity of activated charcoal (which is what makes it black) allows it to bind to many different chemical and toxic substances. It acts as a kind of sponge, absorbing the substances and removing them from the body. Activated charcoal is particularly useful as an antidote in cases of drug or poisoning, especially when it is taken within an hour of the poisoning. It has been shown to decrease absorption of most drugs and poisons, including aspirin, acetaminophen, opium, cocaine and morphine.
However, activated charcoal does not act as an antidote for some poisons, such as corrosive acids and alkalis, hydrocarbons (such as gasoline, oil, paint thinner) or iron compounds. It also does not adsorb alcohols or metals such as iron and lithium. It also does not reduce the effectiveness of a wide range of antibiotics and other common medications.
External Uses
Activated charcoal has been around for thousands of years and is well established in medical literature as an emergency antidote to poisoning and drug overdose by adsorbing drugs and chemicals that may have entered the body through the digestive tract. It also has been shown to reduce intestinal gas, help prevent hangovers and improve bile flow during pregnancy (cholestasis). But what many are surprised to learn is that activated charcoal has other uses outside of poisoning treatment.
Unlike common charcoal which is made from peat, coal, wood or coconut shells, “activated” charcoal is processed under high temperatures to make it very porous with lots of tiny holes and crevices that give it the ability to attract and trap chemicals and gases. This ‘adsorption’ effect is what makes it so useful for treating chemical overdoses and poisoning, but this same property can be harnessed for other benefits – which are the reasons for the recent popularity of charcoal powder products on supermarket shelves.
Because most of the proposed health benefits of consuming charcoal haven’t been scientifically proven, it’s advisable to always consult your doctor before adding anything new to your diet or using it externally on your skin. Especially if you have any type of intestinal blockage, bowel or urinary tract condition, are pregnant or breastfeeding or have certain medications, vitamin supplements or herbal products that can interact with it negatively, or have any known allergies.
Dietary Uses
Activated charcoal is used in many different products. You can find it in tablets, powders, liquids and in various personal care items. Before using any of these products you should consult a healthcare professional and check with them that it is safe to use for you. You should also inform them about any medications you are on or if you have any health problems.
When ingested, activated charcoal binds most organic poisons and chemicals. This prevents them from entering the bloodstream and alleviates their toxic effects. It is a common treatment in drug overdoses and food poisoning. In one randomized controlled trial, administering charcoal after oleander poisoning (cardiac glycosides) reduced the number of deaths, compared to those who did not receive charcoal.
The charcoal can also bind some vitamins and minerals, including iron. It can then be passed to the feces where it helps with red blood cell formation, reducing anemia. In addition, it promotes kidney function and reduces unpleasant urine odors.
Taking charcoal regularly as part of a detox diet may help to whiten teeth, reduce bloating and eliminate gas. However, it does not adsorb all types of bacteria in the digestive tract, so you should continue to wash with soap and water. It is a good idea to drink plenty of water when taking charcoal.
Mouthwash Uses
Activated charcoal has pores that trap chemicals. It’s used to treat poisoning when swallowed and can help bind medications, so they are less likely to be absorbed and excreted into the intestines or kidneys. It’s also used to clean teeth and as an alternative to chemical-laden mouthwashes.
Those who use activated charcoal mouthwash claim that it whitens teeth by changing the pH balance in the mouth, thus preventing stains and cavities. It’s also thought to remove toxins, bad breath and bacteria. However, there’s no scientific evidence that this happens. Some studies have shown that a regular fluoride mouthwash is just as effective and much safer.
Other purported charcoal mouthwash benefits include detoxifying the digestive tract, reducing gas and bloating and improving breath. But it’s important to note that the FDA does not regulate herbs or health supplements and some may be contaminated with heavy metals and other drugs. It’s also important to consult a healthcare professional before starting a new supplement regimen, especially when it involves the oral or dietary administration of a substance that has not been tested in clinical trials.
When looking for an activated charcoal mouthwash, choose one that’s fluoride free and does not contain any artificial sweeteners or other ingredients that can be irritating. It’s also recommended to only use charcoal mouthwash for short-term use and only as directed.