Top 10 Uses of Activated Charcoal

From treating acne to cleaning teeth, there are just so many ways you can use Activated Charcoal. This super fine powder can be found in everything from toothpaste to soap, thanks to its natural antibacterial, anti-fungal and absorbent properties. With a highly porous surface, Activated Charcoal is amazing at absorbing and removing harmful particles and bacteria from your body, skin, hair and even drinking water and the air. It also makes an amazing supplement to improve gut health, but talk to your health care professional if you have any concerns about taking it internally, especially with other medication. It really has an endless list of uses, but these are my Top 10 favourite ways to use Activated Charcoal.

1. Acne treatment
Treat acne and breakouts with the antibacterial properties of Activated Charcoal Powder, which helps to remove acne-causing bacteria and purify the skin to promote healing. Mix 1/2 a teaspoon with 2 teaspoons of natural Aloe Vera and smooth over the affected area. Let it dry, leaving on for 15-20 minutes, and rinse off thoroughly. For body acne, an Activated Charcoal Body Soap can help to remove dirt and lightly exfoliate the skin to prevent further breakouts.

2. Purifying face mask
To help unclog pores, mix 1 tablespoon of Activated Charcoal with 1 1/2 tablespoons of Bentonite Clay Powder, add a splash of water or Rosewater, then apply the mixture to your nose or any areas with enlarged pores. Leave on for 15 minutes and rinse off thoroughly using a Muslin Cloth.

3. Healing shampoo
A great remedy for an itchy or sore scalp, mix a tablespoon of Activated Charcoal into your usual shampoo, leave on your scalp for 5 minutes, then rinse and condition as usual. The anti-fungal properties of Charcoal help to control and remove any irritating bacteria on the scalp, providing soothing relief from any itchiness or discomfort.

4. Digestive supplement
Add one teaspoon of Activated Charcoal to a glass of water twice daily for a cleansing and detoxifying supplement. When taken internally, Activated Charcoal can improve digestive function and immunity by helping to remove heavy metals, viruses and parasites from the gut and encouraging the growth of good bacteria. If taking internally, always read the label and use only as directed. If you are taking any medication consult with your health care professional first.

5. Facial cleanser
The antibacterial properties of Activated Charcoal make it a great daily facial cleanser to prevent breakouts. The Life Basics Konjac Sponge Bamboo Charcoal is infused with Activated Bamboo Charcoal to help balance acne prone and problematic skin, helping to remove makeup, grime and build up and maintain balanced pH levels.

6. Insect bite treatment
Activated Charcoal can actually help to relieve discomfort from insect bites by absorbing bad bacteria and soothing the affected area. Mix 1/2 a teaspoon with 1 tablespoon of Coconut Oil and dab on the sting or bite. Reapply every 30 minutes until irritation subsides.

7. Water filter
Activated Binchotan Charcoal sticks are naturally porous and absorbent, so they are really effective at absorbing and removing impurities, heavy metals and chlorine from tap water. These charcoal sticks last for months and help to naturally purify your water to make it taste fresh and clean.

8. Teeth whitener
A very mild, gentle abrasive, Activated Charcoal makes a great teeth whitener, helping to remove bacteria and lift stubborn stains from tea, coffee and wine. The Pollen Botanicals Zoom Teeth Whitener contains Activated Charcoal in combination with Bentonite Clay to effectively remove stains and strengthen teeth without damaging the enamel.

9. Toothpaste
With effective whitening, polishing and cleansing power, Activated Charcoal makes a really beneficial ingredient in toothpaste, helping to balance pH levels, kill bad bacteria, and prevent tooth decay and gingivitis. The My Magic Mud Whitening Toothpaste Peppermint contains food grade Activated Coconut Shell Charcoal to help remove plaque and remineralise the teeth without damaging tooth enamel, and can be used twice daily to replace your usual toothpaste. It's also anti-inflammatory, helping to calm down oral inflammation.

10. Air purifier
Binchotan Charcoal sticks also make amazing air purifiers to remove unpleasant smells and odours from the fridge or rooms in your home. The negative ionic charge of Binchotan attracts irritating positive ions in the air, such as dust and microfibres, with the particles binding to the charcoal through a process called 'adsorption'.