Activated charcoal is pure carbon comprised of millions of tiny micropores which have a large surface area. Just one gram of activated carbon has a surface area in excess of 3,000 m2. This high degree of microporosity makes it extremely effective in binding to vast amounts of organic material. Used for thousands of years for its adsorbing (bonding) properties, it is still the most widely used drawing substance available today. This is why charcoal is found in water filters and used to treat acute poisoning in hospitals around the world as an emergency decontaminant. Charcoal is produced by slow combustion in the relative absence of oxygen. Burnt toast and charcoal briquettes are NOT charcoal. Treatment with super heated steam produces “activated” charcoal which is capable of a much greater adsorptive effect. This is because more surfaces of the charcoal have been exposed. Activated charcoal works by undergoing a process known as "adsorption". This is when a solid, or molecule of a gas or liquid adheres or binds to the charcoal atom instead of being filtered into it (ie. absorption). Activated charcoal attracts impurities like a magnet to remove them safely. Internally, charcoal cannot adsorb all poisons, but it can bind with, and thus neutralise many of them. Here are but a few of the many things it adsorbs: Many industrial toxins including DDT and dieldrin, strychnine, malathion, parathion Many medical drugs including aspirin, barbiturates cocaine, opium, nicotine, morphine, penicillin and sulphas. Many inorganic chemicals including mercury, phosphorous, chlorine, lead, iron and silver. 1 heaped teaspoon (2g) in half a glass of water. Follow with 1 glass of water. POULTICES: For external use, mix Activated Charcoal with enough pure water to make a paste and apply over desired area. Apply poultice 1-3 times a day and leave on until dry. Can be applied before bed and washed off first thing. For a stronger drawing poultice, mix 1 teaspoon of Activated Charcoal, 1 tablespoon of Eden Healthfoods Activated and Ventilated Green Clay and 1 tablespoon of slippery elm powder with a small amount of pure water and mix in a blender or bowl to create a paste. Herbs like red clover and chaparral can be blended in also. Follow application instructions as above. Remove poultice when dry. Be sure not to reuse a poultice, always make a fresh one. Take caution when using a charcoal as it can stain materials like bedding and clothing. CAUTION: Activated Charcoal may affect the absorption of medication and nutrients. Not to be taken in conjunction with prescription medicines and complimentary medicines, including superfoods and herbal preparations. Activated charcoal can be binding, therefore not to be taken by persons suffering from severe bowel restriction. Take 1-2 capsules with water, not with food or medication. Capsules are made of vegetable cellulose. Capsules can be opened and charcoal mixed in water.
