Activated Charcoal also called Activated carbon is created by heating high carbon rich materials such as coconut shells or wood in an oxygen deprived environment to create a char. The char is then put through high temperatures and steam or oxidizing gases that creates a porous structure ideal for absorption.
Activated charcoal is used medicinally most frequently for absorption of poisons that have been ingested. How it works is the activated charcoal when ingested absorbs toxins and drugs within the GI tract preventing the toxin or drug from entering the bloodstream.
Common Drugs and toxins Activated charcoal is used to absorb are Acetaminophen, aspirin, barbiturates, tricyclic antidepressants, theophylline, phenytoin, NSAIDs, sedatives, calcium channel blockers, dapsone, carbamazepine, malaria medications, and methylxanthines.
Activated Charcoal is also known to help with Gas and bloating as well as food born illnesses and diarrhea. Many use activated charcoal in toothpaste, face masks and soaps due to its toxin absorption properties.
Activated Charcoal is NOT recommended to take long term. Activated charcoal will absorb other medications so it is not recommend to take with other medications.
If you would like to purchase capsulated activated charcoal to keep on hand for any GI issues or poisoning check out a bottle today!
