2024-02-21
bentonite-Bentonite Clay as a Natural Remedy
Geophagy has been considered as an adaptive behavior in humans and animals (1) and the clays have been considered the healing materials from ancient times. As geophagia is an occasionally habits of animals and humans (babies and pregnant women), physiologically it is assumed that earth might have some beneficial effects on body function. Bentonite is absorbent aluminium phyllosilicate clay. It is named after Fort Benton, Wyoming where its largest sources are found. Its other name, Montmorillonite clay, stems from the region of France called Montmorillon, where it was first found. It has been used and eaten from ancient time till now as human believes in its therapeutic benefits. When it is mixed with water a paste is formed which has been used both externally and internally. In some places such as Iran, it has been widely used as a hair cleanser from old time. There is enough literature showing its safety after chronic oral consumption (2–6). As this clay is abundant, non-expensive and natural, this article aimed to review the scientific papers reporting the effects of this clay on body.