The Amazing Power of Charcoal
The referenced use of charcoal medicinally dates to 1550 BC.
by David Hawkins, herbdoc@motherearthworks.com. (From the archives of Two-Lane Livin’ Magazine.)
I'd like to talk about a long-used detoxification remedy: Charcoal. The referenced use of charcoal medicinally dates to the Egyptian Papyrus of 1550 BC. Hippocrates in 400 BC used charcoal to treat epilepsy, and it was used in the 1700s for bilious conditions and to work as an antidote for poisonings.
Activated charcoal is a highly absorbent gritty black material commonly found in water and air filtration devices. It is created by carbonizing organic material in a kiln under anaerobic conditions and then activated by oxidizing gases at elevated temperatures. This process activates it or otherwise increases its absorption potential.
Modern research has validated much of the early use of charcoal, and in the process, it has created new applications. Some of the therapeutic uses would include the following:
* Universal antidote for drugs, chemicals, and poisons
* Systemic clearance of drugs and intoxicants
* General detoxification
* Anti-aging and life extension
* Reduction of cholesterol, coronary disease, and arteriosclerosis
* Counteracting pathogens
* Intestinal complaints
As an antidote for drugs, chemicals, and poisons, results depend on the type of substance ingested, the amount of charcoal used, the length of time from toxin ingestion to charcoal ingestion, and the content of intestinal fluids and their ability to transport. As a rule, a single large dose should be taken as soon as possible after the introduction of any poison.
Dosage recommendations range from 5 grams to 50 grams depending on the situation. Due to it not being toxic, large doses can be taken since too little can be ineffective. The mechanisms for the removal of drugs and intoxicants from the system are accomplished by taking it in multiple doses.
Activated charcoal detoxifies the body in several ways:
* By purifying the digestive fluids of the intestines which help to remove substances before entering the bloodstream;
* Absorbs the intoxicant and its metabolite, preventing reabsorption;
* Absorbs the drugs before they can diffuse back to the stomach or intestines;
* Decreases the detoxification processes of the liver.
Charcoal shortens the time it takes for the intoxicant to leave the system, and decreases the duration and intensity of symptoms. This is especially seen with alcohol and recreational drugs. It has been effectively used in drug recovery programs as a way to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
Charcoal can be used as part of a general detoxification program.
Detoxification is an ongoing process of the body, and it can be facilitated by numerous therapies. Diet, exercise, sauna baths, and using specific liver-enhancing nutrients and herbs can offer many healing benefits to the individual. There are many different recommendations as to how much and for what length of time a person should use charcoal. It is best to consult with a healthcare practitioner for advice.
Another aspect of charcoal is the ability to reduce viral activity. This is especially beneficial at the onset of a cold or flu outbreak. Numerous studies have shown that activated charcoal is an effective treatment for dysentery, cholera, and many infectious conditions of the intestines. Recently it has become part of a program for treating systemic candidiasis. When the candida bacteria die, they produce excessive amounts of toxins that put a burden on the liver system. Die-off produces an entire range of negative symptoms in candida sufferers. Activated charcoal absorbs these toxins.
According to physicians' use of charcoal during the last century, charcoal has been an effective treatment for gas and bloating, diarrhea, spastic colon, and ulcerative colitis.
It is important not to take charcoal along with medications and vitamin supplements due to its absorptive powers. Wait at least two hours before using charcoal. Be sure to buy a charcoal product that has a measured adsorptive capacity. The U.S.P. (United States Pharmacopoeia) standard for activated charcoal is 1000 square meters per gram. Activity levels should be stated on the product label.
Remember charcoal when you begin your next detox program, and keep some in your medicine chest for emergencies.