Not all clays have the same uses, so we will have to see which one best suits the benefit we want to obtain, whether it is healing, anti-inflammatory or even to treat internal problems
What comes to mind when you hear the word clay? Mud, earth, mud … Surely you cannot imagine the many uses that this mineral has had and has for human beings.
Discover in this article what they are and how they can help you as a health and beauty remedy. You can not wait to have your clay always at hand.
Since ancient times, clay has been used in pottery to make objects for everyday or decorative use, producing earthenware, stoneware and porcelain. It depended on the type of clay and the combination made.
It is considered an important element in the construction of buildings and the elaboration of bricks. In addition, in ancient times it was used as a support for cuneiform writing. But it is its multiple healing properties that have surprised us the most. Clay to cure diseases? You are right!
Clay
The geoterapia or land use for therapeutic purposes is widely practiced today. Today, clay stands out for its antacid, healing, absorbent and temperature regulating properties.
But it is not just any clay that you can use as a treatment. Clays for healing purposes are irradiated in the sun, decontaminated from germs and organic matter and well pulverized.
The different types that exist differ in the proportion of their components. Therefore, it is advisable to consult a specialist to choose the most suitable one. Here are the most widely used:
Types of clay
- Green: It is the most widely used, rich in magnesium, silica and potassium. It is anti-inflammatory, analgesic, detoxifying, remineralizing and absorbent. It is usually used to treat edema in the legs, cellulite, inflammation, joint and muscle pain, blows, bruises, among others.
- White: It is considered the highest purity clay. It is mainly made of silicon and aluminum. It is antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and healing, absorbs toxins and helps fight constipation. It is usually used in aesthetic treatments, for skin problems and even in mouthwashes and gargles.
- Red: It has multiple medicinal virtues and has a high content of iron oxide. It is used to cure stiffness and inflammation in the joints. It is also useful to treat circulatory problems and fever.
- Pink: It is a mixture between red and white clay. It is used to make facial and hair masks.
- Black: healing and regenerating effect. It is used to eliminate contractures and inflammations.
How do we use it?
Clay can be used externally (in the form of poultices, compresses, masks and baths) or internally (ingested). Although oral use is highly recommended in the market, it has many contraindications including intestinal occlusion, constipation and hypertension, so the safest option is to use it in external treatments.
To do this you will need the following elements:
- Glass, porcelain or wood containers and utensils.
- Unchlorinated water, as pure as possible.
- Optionally, extracts, essential oils, plants and other elements can be added to further enhance its therapeutic action.
- Gauze compresses or a bath depending on the method.
Medical uses
For the skin
- Skin diseases: Body masks are used to revitalize the endocrine system and stimulate the skin. Being energetic and antiseptic, clay cleanses the skin and prevents the proliferation of bacteria, fungi and viruses.
- Aging: Clay activates cell regeneration, eliminates sick and dead cells and absorbs waste substances and toxins from our body. After a clay treatment, we will feel rejuvenated, relaxed and fresh. Our skin will look shiny and smooth.
- Acne: It is ideal to eliminate dead cells and also the bacteria that cause acne. Apply a clay mask and wait 15 minutes, then rinse and repeat the treatment three times a week until you see the result.
- Athlete’s Foot: Foot fungus is a fairly bothersome condition. Use a talcum powder that will keep your feet dry and eliminate pathogens.
- Psoriasis: To eliminate psoriasis, night clay baths and masks in the affected area are ideal. The results are impressive.
For pain and inflammation
- Joint pains: To treat osteoarthritis, rheumatism, arthritis, as well as bumps and sprains, is highly recommended. The hot clay acts as a pain reliever. If it is applied in the form of a poultice on the painful area, it is able to relieve joints, muscles and vertebrae in a short time.
- Drop: Cold clay on the painful area will not only alleviate the ailment but will also absorb toxins.
- Edema and trauma: It is a natural anti-inflammatory. Applying a warm poultice on the affected area for seven days will alleviate your ailment.
- Kidneys: Hot poultices on the lower back will soothe your kidneys and clear your stones. It can also be used to treat liver problems.
Other uses
- Regulatory action: It is stated that clay is a natural regulator of the endocrine glands and is capable of promoting their stimulation or inhibition as the case may be.
- Against radiation: Clay absorbs harmful radiation. Poultices and masks could help protect organisms exposed to ionizing radiation.
- Stress: For stress, there is nothing better than a hot or cold clay night bath. After 20 minutes in a bathtub where you have dissolved granulated clay, you will feel relaxed, vigorous and flexible. These baths also purify the body and strengthen the immune system.
- Natural filter: To purify cisterns, tanks and wells. Place 250 grams of granulated clay in a cloth bag for every 1,000 liters of water and deposit it with a cotton thread in the bottom of the tank for 72 hours. It is advisable to make an analysis of the water beforehand and repeat it after the first 36 hours to verify the quality of the purification.
- Pediculosis: It is ideal to eliminate pathogens. Mix 3 tablespoons of clay with a cup of mineral water in a clay bowl, stir with a wooden spoon and let stand. At night, you should wash your hair with ordinary white soap and then apply the mixture with your fingertips all over your head, especially on the hair roots. Put on a hat and the next morning remove it and wash your hair again and dry it well. Apply dry clay like talcum powder to your hair and you will have wonderful results.