Is bentonite clay good for diverticulitis and diverticulosis? How to do a clay cure to treat diverticulitis and diverticulosis? What are the benefits? What is the dosage? How much time does a clay cure last? What are the other natural remedies for diverticulitis? And finally what foods should be avoided if you have diverticulitis?
I. What Is Diverticulitis and Diverticulosis
To understand what diverticulitis and diverticulosis are, we must first define diverticula.
Diverticula are pockets that are only found in certain organs, such as the large intestine.
They are pockets or growths that appear on weak areas of the wall of the digestive tract, especially on the colon. Diverticula can appear with age. Approximately 45% of the population over the age of 70 is affected.
A certain lifestyle can also contribute to the spread of diverticula, as well as a diet low in fiber.
The term colonic diverticulosis refers to a colon in which diverticula are present. These may not cause any particular pain. Diverticulosis is therefore an asymptomatic condition.
When one or more diverticula become infected or inflamed, it is called diverticulitis.
Diverticulitis is, therefore, a gastrointestinal pathology. It is usually accompanied by symptoms such as bloating, nausea, abdominal pain, or diarrhea.
Depending on the severity of the symptoms and the disease, diverticulitis can be treated with painkillers. Antibiotic treatment may also be recommended, as well as a residue-free diet.
In case of complications, diverticulitis can lead to stenosis or even bleeding from the digestive tract.
II. Is Bentonite Clay Good for Diverticulitis and Diverticulosis
Clay is one of the natural elements that are often used to treat diverticulitis. Its strength lies in its ease of use, and above all without great risk if the correct dosage and method are followed.
1. The Benefits of the Bentonite Clay Cure
Clay has been known for centuries for its benefits to human health.
This rock is rich in minerals and has both absorbing and absorbing capacities. It allows to drain out of the body the toxins and the liquids which this one does not need.
In the case of diverticulosis, the intestine is hollow. These pockets can become infected, like wounds, and lead to diverticulitis.
Clay has great healing and covering abilities. It has the uncanny ability to allow the reconstitution of tissues and cells.
Knowing that diverticula appear on the muscular mucous membrane of the colon wall, clay could act at this level. It is therefore not surreal to think that a clay cure could prevent diverticulitis.
Bentonite clay is also capable of covering a wound to prevent its infection.
In the case of diverticulitis, a clay cure could act on the symptoms.
Bentonite clay is often used for digestive problems. It allows for the better general functioning of the digestive system. The clay acts on the acidity of the body, by regulating it.
The absorbent capacities of clay allow it to act against diarrhea, which is one of the symptoms of diverticulitis. Against bloating also clay has an effect, because it absorbs gases and toxins.
Diverticulitis is a disease that also causes great physical suffering. This is why painkillers are sometimes prescribed. Clay is a natural anti-inflammatory. Its minerals will act on the pain to reduce it.
It is important to note that there are no serious studies on the impact of a clay treatment on diverticulitis. It is, therefore, necessary to consult a health professional before deciding to do one.
At the first negative sign, such as constipation, the treatment should be stopped immediately.
2. How to Use Bentonite Clay for Diveticulitis (Dosage and Advice)
To make a clay cure, start by obtaining quality bentonite clay, preferably organic and illite.
In a glass of water, mix a teaspoon of bentonite clay and stir. Do not use any metal objects, which could weaken the properties of the clay.
Let it sit for a few hours, or even overnight.
In the morning, drink the water from the surface, without bringing up the deposit at the bottom. Do this on an empty stomach.
Drink this way for the first three days, maybe even the first week. Then, mix the deposit at the bottom of your glass and drink it too.
Be careful during your cure, because clay can be constipating. It is therefore important to drink a lot of water during this period.
The clay cure generally lasts from 7 to 21 days. And it is advised never to exceed three weeks in a row.
3. Other Edible Clay for Diverticulosis
Due to its healing and regenerating properties, green clay is also a powerful ally against ulcers, inflammation and intestinal porosity, and especially diverticulosis.
Green clay is a key element to stop this process and restore the intestine.
4. Should Bentonite Clay Be Taken on an Empty Stomach?
The best way to drink bentonite clay is on an empty stomach, or at least one hour before or after meals.
Bentonite clay is usually available as a thick, tasteless gray powder or gel, but it also comes in encapsulated form.
Drink bentonite clay on an empty stomach, which is at least one hour after eating or taking supplements or medications, and wait another hour before eating or taking other supplements or medications.
III. Other Natural Remedies for Diverticulitis
Against diverticulitis, many natural alternatives can be of great help.
1. Thyme Tea and Diverticulitis
To act on inflammation or infection of diverticulitis, natural remedies are to be favored.
Thyme tea is antiseptic, so it can prevent the infection from developing in the body.
Thyme is a plant known for its antiviral and antimicrobial properties. Its tea brings relief in case of inflammation.
Taking 2 to 3 cups a day can improve overall digestive health.
2. Charcoal and Diverticulitis
Activated charcoal is used for various digestive disorders. It has absorbing capacities which help in cases of bloating or acid reflux.
To act against diverticulitis, a cure of activated charcoal can be made. This one allows the detox of the colon, by cleansing the walls of this last one.
A cure of activated charcoal allows to naturally clean the body while avoiding constipation. This is important because constipation can aggravate colon disorders.
3. Castor Oil and Diverticulitis
Castor oil can also be very useful in the case of diverticulitis. It allows the sanitation of the colon. However, due to its properties, it should be consumed with great care.
4. Absinthe and Diverticulitis
One of the most recommended herbs for diverticulitis is wormwood. This very powerful plant helps to improve the symptoms of this disease.
But for this, it should not be taken as an essential oil. In infusion, by small pinch, it will be more effective and less dangerous.
5. Is Aloe Vera Juice Good for Diverticulitis?
Aloe vera is an excellent natural product for cleansing the colon of the various toxins that accumulate over time.
Diverticulitis is, as previously mentioned, the accumulation and stagnation of fecal residue in the lower large intestine.
The benefits of aloe vera juice for diverticulitis is by inference are obvious.
Thus, by making regular cures of aloe vera, we prevent the formation of diverticulitis on its walls.
IV. What Foods Are Forbidden for Diverticulitis
In the case of diverticulitis, refined foods should be avoided.
Foods such as cereals and bread, which are high in fiber, can make diverticulitis symptoms worse.
Dried fruits, food skins, pasta, and spices should also be avoided. These are foods that irritate the colon.
Beverages such as coffee, chocolate, or soda should also be avoided.
V. The Healing Diverticulitis Diet
Mild cases of diverticulitis are usually treated with antibiotics and a low-fiber diet.
Treatment may begin with a period of rest during which you do not eat anything by mouth, then start with clear liquids and then switch to a low-fiber diet until your condition improves.
The most severe cases usually require hospitalization.
Here are some examples of foods that are allowed on a clear liquid diet:
- Broth
- Fruit juice without pulp, such as apple juice
- Ice chips
- Popsicles without fruit pieces or pulp
- Gelatin
- water
- Tea or coffee without cream
As you begin to feel better, your doctor will recommend that you gradually add low-fiber foods.
Here are some examples of low-fiber foods:
- Canned or cooked fruits without skins or seeds.
- Canned or cooked vegetables such as green beans, carrots and potatoes (without the skin)
- Eggs, fish and poultry
- Refined white bread
- Fruit and vegetable juices without pulp
- Low-fiber cereals
- Milk, yogurt and cheese
- White rice, pasta and noodles
VI. Other Benefits of Bentonite Clay
# Elimination of Toxins from the Body
Bentonite clay can eliminate toxins from the body and help treat oily skin.
Bentonite clay works by absorbing oils and dirt from the skin. It absorbs materials by sticking to their molecules or ions.
# Ability to Remove Lead and Other Heavy Metals
Excessive exposure to heavy metals such as lead can lead to health problems.
Children’s brains are particularly sensitive to lead, which can cause learning disabilities and other problems.
Avoiding lead exposure and getting tested are the best ways to prevent lead poisoning.
Bentonite clay can help remove lead and other heavy metals from the body.
# Skin Detoxification
Beyond healing irritating skin rashes, bentonite offers to beautify benefits for your skin.
If you’ve ever used a clay mask, you know firsthand the oil-sucking, pore-cleansing powers of this mineral-rich mud, which seems to draw out all the impurities from your face.
But in addition to removing dirt, excess oil, and other skin saboteurs, bentonite clay can work its magic on your skin in another way by stimulating collagen production.
# Constipation Relief
Bentonite clay can help relieve constipation. Mix 1-2 teaspoons of bentonite clay in a large glass of water, soak for at least 30 minutes, then drink.
Do not use more than the recommended amount of clay, as a thick, muddy mixture can cause constipation.
It is recommended to drink a glass of plain water to prevent the clay from settling.
# Can Relieve Diarrhea Quickly
Bentonite clay can help relieve virus-related digestive problems, such as diarrhea.
If diarrhea does not go away after treatment with bentonite clay, continue to drink plenty of fluids, try more common methods of treating diarrhea and contact your doctor.
# Can Treat Diaper Rash
Bentonite clay is very effective in treating diaper rash.
Approximately 93% of infants who received treatment with bentonite clay had their diaper rash improve within 6 hours, and 90% were completely healed within 3 days.
# Aid in Weight Loss
Bentonite clay can be a useful supplement for people trying to lose weight.
Ingesting a bentonite clay product helps reduce weight gain in people on a high-fat diet.
Although some traditional healing methods have used clay products for many years, there are better ways to lose weight.
Reducing caloric intake and increasing physical activity are still the best choices.
# Treat Oily Skin and Acne
The adsorptive power of bentonite clay can be useful in treating acne breakouts and oily skin.
The clay can help remove sebum, or oil, from the skin’s surface, and can also have a calming effect on inflamed breakouts.
Using a clay mask can help remove impurities from the skin to treat acne or reduce the risk of pimples and skin infections.
# Detox Bath
Add 1 to 2 cups of bentonite clay to your bath water and soak for about 20 minutes. This will remove toxins from your skin.
Due to its electromagnetic properties, clumps of clay may stick to a particular area of the body where toxins have surfaced.
If there are any clay spots left on your skin after rinsing, gently rub them off with a washcloth.
# Armpit Detox
Bentonite clay can help you eliminate underarm odor. Mix one tablespoon of bentonite clay, one teaspoon of apple cider vinegar, and one to two teaspoons of water.
Spread on your underarms and let sit for five to twenty minutes before washing off with warm water.
You can repeat this daily until you notice a decrease in underarm odor.
# Skin Poultice for Insect Bites
For minor burns, insect bites, and rashes, mix bentonite clay with water to the desired thickness and apply the poultice to the skin.
Leave the paste on until it dries and rinses when finished.
# Oral Health Aid
Due to the naturally abrasive and antibacterial properties of bentonite clay, it may be able to make your teeth even brighter.
Simply dip your wet toothbrush in bentonite clay powder and start brushing your teeth.
Consult your dentist first if you have any concerns.
VII. Does Bentonite Clay Absorb Vitamins?
Bentonite clay can help your intestine absorb more vitamins by increasing intestinal flora.
Consumption of bentonite clay has benefits for those seeking to improve symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, leaky gut, and other digestive disorders.
VIII. How Do You Use Apple Cider Vinegar with Bentonite Clay?
Mix equal parts bentonite clay and apple cider vinegar. Use 2 tablespoons of each to make a thick acne mask.
Leave the mask on your face for 10 to 20 minutes. If you have sensitive skin, leave it on for less time.
IX. Can Bentonite Clay Help Bloating?
Bentonite clay can help relieve constipation (infrequent and/or difficult bowel movements) and can help with bloating and gas.
Ask your doctor to check your blood lead levels to make sure you are not exposed to lead from bentonite clay.
Drink plenty of water throughout the day while using bentonite clay.
This will help flush the clay out of the digestive tract and prevent constipation.
Useful Links:
Diverticular Disease: An Update on Pathogenesis and Management
Management and Evolution of Acute Diverticulitis With Pericolic Free Gas (ADiFas)
Is Turmeric Good for Hiatal Hernia?
