Believe it or not activated charcoal has many useful applications. It is most commonly used in cases of accidental ingestion of a poisonous substance. Bulk activated charcoal has been a lifesaver for people who have consumed toxic levels of chemical from household cleaners and well as those who have consumed prescribed medications.

It is the highest adsorbent substance found naturally. Adsorption is a process in which atoms and molecules move from a bulk phase (such as a solid, liquid, or gas) onto a solid or liquid surface. What happens is the toxic substance actually attaches itself to the surface of the charcoal. This charcoal will not be digested and instead removes toxins inside the gastrointestinal tract during a bowel movement. Activated charcoal can prevent the absorption of many poisons from a person’s gastrointestinal tract.

Apart from this function there are other reasons you should buy activated charcoal. Adding to its already known anti-poison first-aid remedy, it as recently been grown in popularity for many non-emergency reasons. It has shown promise in eliminating fungi, viruses and even bacteria from the body. It can also adsorb gases, especially in the lower intestine, and thus help to relieve flatulence and gas pains.

Activated charcoal can also be used to help with different stings and insect bites. Try mixing activated charcoal powder with water to make a paste to relieve the itching of insect bites and stings. There are even studies that suggest charcoal can help with your cardiovascular system and lower your cholesterol.

As with any product one needs to look at the benefits as well as the precautions it has for its uses. Activated charcoal has the potential to dehydrate, so drinking a lot of water with it is advised. Also, it should not be taken in combination with other medications as its absorption factors may render them ineffective.

Other side effects that should be looked out for are; pain or swelling of the stomach, constipation and vomiting. These rare side effects are likely due to lack of fluids. Also important to note, milk products may decrease the ability of the charcoal to work so don’t consume dairy when taking it.

If you have any questions about this or any of the many beneficial bulk herbs, contact More Than Alive – a trusted source of family health information.