Bisina SomtoDid you know that charcoal, especially the specialized variety known as “activated charcoal,” offers a plethora of health benefits?
While it might sound unconventional, activated charcoal has undergone a high-temperature oxygen treatment to increase its porosity, decrease its volume, and maximize its surface area, making it a versatile and powerful substance. Here, we explore the remarkable health benefits of activated charcoal.
Emergency Anti-Poison Treatment
Activated charcoal has a long history of use as an immediate anti-poison remedy. Dating back to the early 1800s, it has been employed to mitigate the effects of various drugs and treat overdoses of prescription and over-the-counter medications.
Research indicates that consuming 50–100 grams of activated charcoal within five minutes of drug ingestion can reduce an adult’s ability to absorb the medicine by up to 74%. When administered promptly after an overdose or poisoning, activated charcoal can significantly enhance its effectiveness.
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Kidney Function Enhancement
Activated charcoal may hold the key to improving kidney function, particularly in individuals with chronic kidney disease. This condition limits the kidneys’ ability to filter waste products effectively from the bloodstream, leading to elevated urea and other contaminants in the blood.
Activated charcoal can help by reducing the volume of waste products that the kidneys need to filter. This, in turn, can lighten the burden on the kidneys and potentially enhance their function, providing valuable support to those with chronic kidney disease.
Cholesterol Management
Managing cholesterol levels is crucial for overall health, and activated charcoal may offer an unconventional yet effective solution. A study discovered that taking 24 grams of activated charcoal daily for four weeks resulted in a 25% reduction in total and LDL cholesterol, while HDL cholesterol increased by 8%.
Activated charcoal’s cholesterol-lowering effect is attributed to its ability to bind to cholesterol and cholesterol-containing bile acids in the gut, preventing their absorption. This unique mechanism makes it a potential ally in the battle against high cholesterol levels.
Gas Reduction
Activated charcoal’s gas-reducing properties can be a welcome relief for individuals grappling with gastrointestinal discomfort. A study from 2012 revealed that taking 448 mg of activated charcoal three times a day for two days before and after intestinal ultrasound examinations improved the visibility of certain organs. Additionally, 34% of participants who received activated charcoal to reduce gas also experienced relief from their symptoms.
Skin Rejuvenation
Activated charcoal’s remarkable ability to attract toxins, bacteria, chemicals, and micro-particles to the skin’s surface makes it a sought-after ingredient in skincare. Many people turn to charcoal-based facial masks and even charcoal baths to promote smoother, clearer skin by aiding in the removal of impurities.
Teeth Whitening
Activated charcoal has found its way into the realm of dental hygiene, with numerous teeth-whitening products containing this remarkable substance. Advocates claim that activated charcoal possesses antiviral, antibacterial, anti-fungal, and detoxifying properties, making it a valuable tool in achieving a brighter smile.
Somto is an Entertainment Reporter with a passion for uncovering the latest stories in the world of entertainment. As a dedicated journalist, Somto delivers in-depth reporting, exclusive interviews, and breaking news coverage.
She covers a wide range of topics, from celebrity interviews to industry trends and film reviews.
As an Entertainment Reporter for Prime Business Africa, She continues to provide comprehensive and insightful coverage of the entertainment industry, offering readers an insider's perspective on the latest developments and trends. She is a trusted source for breaking news, exclusive interviews, and thought-provoking analyses.
Somto is dedicated to providing valuable information and entertainment to her audience while upholding the highest standards of journalistic integrity.
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