Green clay: benefits, dosage, contraindications
Family or group:
Superfood
Indications
Scoring methodology
EFSA approval.
Diarrhea ✪✪✪✪✪
The effectiveness of clay, notably diosmectite, in the treatment of acute diarrhea has been demonstrated by several clinical studies. A meta-analysis of 14 trials involving 2,209 children showed that, in addition to rehydration therapy, a dose of 3 g of smectite, administered three times a day, reduces the duration of diarrhea caused by infections such as rotavirus by about 24 hours.
Posologie
Oral
3 - 9 g
Diosmectite
Irritable bowel syndrome ✪✪✪✪✪
In the context of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), clay shows promising results depending on the predominant symptom types. nnIn patients with diarrhea-predominant IBS, diosmectite, at a dose of 3 grams three times daily for 8 weeks, significantly improves pain, discomfort, and bloating compared with placebo. However, in patients with constipation-predominant IBS, beidellitic montmorillonite, also administered at a dose of 3 grams three times daily for the same duration, is effective in relieving abdominal pain, but not stool frequency.nn
Posologie
Oral administration
3 - 9 g
Diosmectite
Detoxification ✪✪✪✪✪
In naturopathy, clay, particularly dioctahedral smectite and green illite clay, is prized for its detoxifying properties thanks to its adsorption and ion-exchange capacity. It acts like a true "toxin magnet", capable of binding heavy metals, chemical residues, and microbial toxins in the digestive system, promoting their natural elimination by the body. During a detoxification course, clay is often taken as an aqueous suspension, starting with small doses to accustom the digestive system. However, internal use of clay should be supervised by a qualified therapist to avoid side effects, such as constipation or mineral imbalances, especially during a prolonged course.
Posologie
Orally
3 - 9 g
powder
Properties
Detoxifier
Clay is distinguished by its remarkable detoxifying properties due to its composition rich in minerals, such as calcium, magnesium, zinc, and its ion-exchange capabilities. This mechanism allows it to absorb and neutralize toxic substances, such as heavy metals like mercury, aflatoxins, and other toxins. For example, it has been shown that clay can remove up to 81% of microcystin-LR, liver toxins, from water, suggesting a potential role in the purification of drinking water.nnIf ingested, this adsorption capacity can also target toxins circulating in the digestive system, limiting their absorption by the body. This makes clay a valuable tool in detoxification regimens, although such uses require appropriate oversight to avoid potential electrolyte imbalances or adverse interactions.nn
Usages associés
Gastroprotective
Clay, notably montmorillonite, plays a gastroprotective role by strengthening the intestinal barrier and reducing inflammation of the mucosa. Studies show that taking 3 g twice a day can improve the integrity of the intestinal barrier, particularly in children with increased intestinal permeability. This mechanism is based on the adsorption of mucosal glycoproteins by the clay, forming a protective layer on the intestinal mucosa. Furthermore, its anti-inflammatory and adsorbent properties help reduce irritation of the digestive lining and absorb harmful or irritating substances, offering a solution in the treatment of digestive disorders such as diarrhea or gastric irritations. However, prolonged use can lead to side effects, such as hypokalemia or iron deficiency.
Usages associés
Safe dosage
Adult: 1.5 g - 12 g
Short-term oral use:nn- Dioctahedral smectite (diosmectite): Up to 12 grams per day, in divided doses, used for courses up to 35 days, appears safe.nn- Calcium montmorillonite (NovaSil): 1.5-3 grams per day, safe for up to 3 months.nn- Calcium aluminosilicate: 4 grams per day, up to 6 weeks.nnLong-term oral use:nnProlonged ingestion is potentially dangerous, associated with risks of potassium deficiency (hypokalemia), iron malabsorption, anemia, and lead poisoning.nnTopical use:nnA cream containing 3 grams of smectite and 10 mL of iodinated glycerin, applied 4 times a day, was used safely for 5 days.nn
Children aged 3 years and older: 0.75 g - 1.5 g
Short-term oral use:nn- Montmorillonite (NovaSil): 0.75-1.5 grams per day, up to 2 weeks, in children aged 3 to 9 years.nnnn
Interactions
Médicaments
Cimetidine: moderate interaction
Taking clay at the same time as cimetidine could reduce its absorption, decreasing the effectiveness of the treatment. It is advisable to separate the doses to avoid a negative interaction.
Chloroquine: weak interaction
In vitro data indicate that clay may reduce the bioavailability of quinine by about 30%, which could compromise the effectiveness of quinine-based antimalarial or antipyretic treatment. Concurrent use is not recommended.
Precautions
Pregnant women: avoid
Potentially risky use, associated with an increase in cases of preeclampsia, hypertension, and/or edema.nn
Breastfeeding women: avoid
Reliable data are lacking; it is preferable to avoid use.nn
