Activated charcoal is a fine black powder made from coconut shells or hardwood, heated to very high temperatures to create millions of tiny pores. All that surface area makes it a powerful natural binder: it attracts and holds onto unwanted substances so the body can carry them out. It has been a medicine-cabinet staple for generations, and many people keep it on hand to support the body’s natural cleansing and for occasional gas, bloating or digestive upset. Ways to use it: Mix it into a glass of water as directed and drink it, followed by more water. Add it to homemade clay face masks for a deep-cleansing, pore-refining treatment. Brush with it gently for a natural tooth-polishing powder. Mix it with a little water into a paste for traditional drawing poultices on bug bites and stings. Cautions: take it at least 2 hours apart from medications, supplements and meals, because it can bind to them and keep them from working. Drink plenty of water, since it can be constipating. It will temporarily turn stools black, which is normal. It’s intended for occasional, short-term use. Talk with your provider if you take daily medications or are pregnant.
