Clay has always been a natural remedy for many ailments around the world. Whether green, white, red, pink, ochre or blue, ingested or used externally, clay has been part of traditional pharmacopoeia for millennia. In this article, we take a closer look at a type of clay that is most commonly used in our countries: green clay.

Composition of green clay

The clay is a sedimentary rock rich in aluminum silicates and magnesium. Its color is due to iron oxides (limonite). Its composition depends on the richness of the soil in minerals and trace elements.

There are two common varieties of green clay: Illite from the state of Illinois in the USA and Montmorillonite from Montmorillon in the Vienne region of France.

It is therefore found in temperate climates and alkaline environments. Highly pure, Montmorillonite green clay is generally recommended for use in clay therapy. It is extracted from quarries in the Massif Central, Languedoc and Provence.

Green clay:external use

When preparing cataplasms, we recommend using wooden or glass utensils and containers, as metal can disrupt ionic exchanges, altering the effectiveness of green clay.

Cases in which green clay can help

• Wound: green clay is antibacterial and antiseptic. Apply a thick poultice over the wound, which should be neither too deep nor too extensive. Green clay has the power to rapidly stop bleeding and promote healing.
• Superficial burn/sunburn: applied as a poultice prepared with cold water, green clay stops the fire, soothes the pain and heals the burn. It's important not to let the clay dry out, and to repeat the operation every 20 minutes until symptoms improve.
• Abscesses : as mentioned above, green clay is antibacterial, antiseptic and healing. It is also highly absorbent, helping to draw affected tissues to it for evacuation.
• Entorse, tendinite, arthrite  Green clay, applied as a thick poultice to inflamed areas, relieves pain. Repeat as soon as the clay begins to dry.
• Acne : As a mask, green clay purifies the skin by absorbing excess sebum, disinfects the skin and promotes healing. Cleanse the face as soon as the clay begins to dry. Use 1 to 2 times a week as part of a personalized, adapted lifestyle.
• Insect stings : thanks to its marked absorption capacity, green clay can be used to extract venom and relieve the pain of a bee sting, for example.

Internal use of green clay

Some people eat clay to treat certain ailments, whether bacterial, viral or parasitic. Here, green clay is used in the form of "clay water".

To do this, simply add 1 tablespoon of powdered green clay to a tall glass of water (prefer tall to wide). Stir well, then leave to settle overnight. When you wake up the next morning, drink the water without stirring. This beverage should be consumed away from any medication because, as we have already seen, clay is highly absorbent, making it impossible for your treatments (including the contraceptive pill) to have any effect.

Another important point is to remember to drink plenty of water between meals, and to limit fat consumption to avoid the risk of clay "clogging" the intestines.

Green clay water can relieve cases of diarrhea , Whether viral (gasto-enteritis) or caused by food poisoning, diarrhoea can be contained by using green clay internally. In fact, it attracts pathogens and expels them through natural channels. What's more, its absorbent power helps harden stools and eliminate bloating.

It also has a soothing effect on irritated mucous membranes, acting as a dressing for gastritis, ulcers, intestinal hyper-permeability, irritable bowel syndrome, chronic diarrhea, turista, etc.

Also in its internal purifying role, green clay is an excellent anti-parasitic for the digestive tract.

At the same time, taking green clay water internally provides an overall purification of the entire organism, as well as complete remineralization.

Green clay contraindications

Internally, green clay should be taken over a short period to begin with. If you suffer from chronic constipation, high blood pressure or intestinal obstruction, it is formally contraindicated.

Green clay is a wonderful natural remedy that can be used by everyone to alleviate many problems. The purpose of this article is to make you aware of the uses of green clay, and in no way invites you to stop or modify a treatment which only your doctor is qualified to advise you on. However, if you are interested in this natural method, you may wish to consult a naturopath, who will be able to advise you on the best course of action for your particular problem.