Bentonite clay
Also called: Montmorillonite, calcium bentonite, sodium bentonite
A fine clay formed from volcanic ash that binds substances in the gut and absorbs oil on the skin. Like charcoal, it binds medicines and nutrients too.
Medical Disclaimer
Supplements can interact with medications and aren't right for everyone, especially during pregnancy or breastfeeding, or with a chronic condition. Ask your provider before you start.
Studied for
- Binder in mold illness or detox protocols, under guidance (limited evidence)
- Loose stools (limited evidence)
- Face masks for oily or acne-prone skin
Found naturally in
- Not a food. It's a natural clay formed from volcanic ash.
Label red flags
- No third-party testing for lead and other heavy metals
- 'For external use only' clay that also gives directions for drinking it
- Marketed for daily, long-term 'detox' use
Check with a provider
- Taking any medicine. Clay binds medicines and nutrients, so separate doses by at least 2 hours, and ask your provider first.
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding: don't take it by mouth. Clay can contain lead.
- Constipation or a history of bowel blockage. Drink plenty of water with it.
- Children: don't give clay by mouth without a provider's guidance
- Long-term use by mouth may lower iron and potassium levels
Usually found in binder and detox formulas, mold illness protocols, clay face masks. Browse the Lesher Wellness store
Parts of the body it affects
Explore what each area does and the conditions that can affect it.
Digestive tract
Your stomach and intestines absorb nutrients and hold most of your body's immune tissue, which makes the gut a common target in autoimmune disease.
Skin
Your skin is your largest organ and a major immune barrier. Rashes, patches, and color changes are often the first visible signs of an autoimmune condition.
Illustrations: Servier Medical Art, CC BY 4.0
Ready to find the root cause?
Dr. Lesher is a Naturopathic Doctor who focuses on autoimmune and chronic conditions in women. Since 2020, she's helped hundreds of patients stop managing symptoms and start healing.