Radiant Living

The Hidden
Benefits of Charcoal
Charcoal is one of the best-kept secrets in the world of healing. Charcoal
has the amazing ability to attract other substances to its surface and hold
them there. This is called adsorption. Charcoal can adsorb thousands
of times its own weight in gases, heavy metals, poisons, and other chemicals,
effectively neutralizing them.
The form of charcoal used for medical purposes is called activated charcoal. It
is completely harmless and is safe for internal use. Other sources of charcoal such
as burnt toast, and briquettes are ineffective and may be dangerous. Briquettes,
for instance, contain petrochemicals to help them ignite. Activated charcoal,
which is available in many drug stores and health food stores, is an amazingly
effective remedy for a wide range of problems both internal and external.
Internally, charcoal combats poisoning, gastrointestinal complaints, diarrhea,
sore throat, and bad breath. The best time to take charcoal is between meals; it
is less effective when taken with food.
Externally, charcoal relieves infected wounds or ulcers, insect bites or stings,
ear and eye infections, and inflammation. Charcoal actually draws bacteria and
poisons through the skin and into the poultice or compress. 1
The Charcoal Poultice
1. Mix a little water into some charcoal powder to make a paste.
2. Spread the charcoal paste approximately one-fourth inch deep on half of a
cloth or paper towel. Leave a border of one inch all around. Fold the other
half over the charcoal paste.
3. Place the poultice on the affected skin area and cover with a piece of plastic
or cloth that extends one inch over all edges.
4. Hold the poultice in place with a roller bandage, ace bandage, wool fabric,
or tape.
5. Leave on for a few hours or overnight if necessary.
Note: For very small areas, a small amount of charcoal on a dampened band
aid works well.
Caution:
IN THE EVENT OF POISONING call your poison control center; charcoal is
useful for most but not all poisons.
Don’t take charcoal within two hours of meals or medicines. It can adsorb such
things as vitamins, minerals, and many drugs. If you are taking medication
check with your doctor before beginning treatment with charcoal.
Note: Charcoal stains. Do not let charcoal get on clothing or furniture. It is best not to put charcoal
powder directly on the skin if it is cut or broken—it will leave a permanent mark.
1. American Medical News, p. 37, June 22, 1984.
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