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For centuries, many cultures instinctively used bentonite clay for its powerful healing properties, but the practice of using the clay medicinally had been largely forgotten. In recent years, however, Bentonite clay has been making a comeback!

Due to its special properties, this type of clay swells up to six times it size when activated by water and develops an electromagnetic charge. Its absorbent quality allows it to draw out and absorb toxins. Bentonite clay is known to absorb and remove heavy metals, chemicals and other impurities.

Bentonite clay is typically sold dry but can easily be rehydrated so that it is always readily available to use, Once prepared in a glass jar, the clay is ready:

To be taken internally to ease stomach aches and other digestive issues - 1 teaspoon dry clay powder added to a glass of water
To ease heartburn
Balance ph
Provide minerals to the body.

Externally, Bentonite clay can be used for:

Used in a detox bath - adding about 1-2 cups to bath water
As a body powder to control moisture
Used in a topical paste treat skin irritations, scrapes, and cuts
To treat bites and stings
As a poultice
Applied to bruises and burns
Added to hair care products for detoxing hair and scalp
Applied as a clay facial mask to improve the appearance of the skin naturally
Applied to skin to reduce the appearance of cellulite
Homemade tooth care products for remineralizing the teeth
And many more uses.

One of my favorite ways to use this treasured clay is in a very budget-friendly natural face mask as it pulls impurities from the skin, leaving the skin feeling smooth and supple. It reduces the appearance of pores, and tones the skin.

I add a little Manuka honey to my mask for additional skin-soothing benefits - see my previous post on Manuka honey here.

Again, the clay needs to be rehydrated before use, in a glass container with a tight-fitting lid, and it should not touch any metal containers or utensils.

Natural Bentonite Clay Mask

1 teaspoon prepared bentonite clay (I use this one)
1/2 teaspoon Manuka honey (more info here)

In a small bowl, mix the prepared clay and honey well. Scoop the mixture into your palms and smooth it over your face, covering the area lightly with the mask mixture.

Let the mask dry for 10 minutes. After the mask is dry, gently wash your face with warm water and pat dry with a clean towel.

Mask may be used twice a week.

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