Using Clay for Healing and Detoxification

Across cultures and across the world, clay has been prized for its healing properties. Some types of clay are food grade and may be taken internally. Most clays are used externally. Use the highest quality clay you can get your hands on. Keep in mind that clay absorbs toxins, so you want to be careful from where you source it.

Clay is usually available in powdered form. To use, mix the powder with a small amount of water to form a paste. Be sure to test the clay on a small area of skin initially to make sure that it does not irritate. Do not wash large amounts of clay down the drain as this could clog your pipes. Here are a few of my favourite ways to use clay.

To Make a Clay Paste

Take about 3 TBSP of powdered clay and mix with about 1 TBSP of water. Some types of clay absorb more water than others, so adjust accordingly to make a thick paste.

Sprains

Useful after injuries such as a sprain or in situations where injuries result in a lot of swelling and bruising. Injury to bones, joints, ligaments. Do not use on open sores. Be sure to seek appropriate medical help when necessary. Apply a layer of clay paste 1⁄2-1 cm thick over the affected area. Cover and leave on overnight. Remove in the morning and rinse thoroughly. The clay pack has such a profound healing effect, that you may not feel much pain the next day - don't overstrain the area. Give the injury plenty of time to heal before resuming normal activities.

The Detox Clay Bath

Use about 1/4 cup of clay powder in a quart jar half full of water. Close the lid tightly and shake well to disperse the clay evenly. Pour into a tub of warm water. Soak in the tub for 15-20 minutes. Get out, rinse off and rest for at least 30 minutes. This is a very powerful treatment, so take it easy afterwards. If you are sensitive, start with less clay and only stay in the tub for 5 minutes. You can slowly increase over time as your body tolerates the treatment. Maximum 1 cup of clay per bath. Don't exceed 30 minutes.

The Detox Clay Footbath

Dissolve 2-4 TBSP of clay in about a gallon of comfortably water water. Put the water into some sort of container that you can fit your feet into, a small wash basin is handy. Allow your feet to soak for 10-30 minutes. If you are sensitive, building slowly up to 30 minutes. Remove your feet, rinse and dry off your feet.

The Foot Detox Clay Pack

The Foot Clay Pack is great way to help draw toxins out through the feet. It can be used overnight a few times per week. If keeping the clay packs on overnight is not convenient for you, keep them on for at least 30 minutes before rinsing off thoroughly.

You will need:

1/4 cup of powdered clay

Water

2 plastic bags approx 30x45cm each

a pair of socks

Best to do this before bed. Combine 4 Tablespoons of clay with enough water to make a thick paste. Divide this evenly between the two plastic bags and place the clay at the very bottom of each of the two bags. Put your foot into one of the bags while spreading the clay out over the bottom of the foot. Repeat with the other foot. Pull a pair of socks on your feet, overtop of the plastic bag, to help keep the clay and the plastic bag in place. Leave on overnight. Remove in the morning, rinse the feet well and discard the clay.

Lymphatic Cleansing of the Breast Tissue

To help draw toxins out of breast tissue or other lymphatic tissue. Apply a paste about 1⁄2-1cm thick over the area. Leave on for 30-60 minutes. Rinse well. Be sure to test skin sensitivity first before using on the breast.

During Radiation Treatment

The following protocol is very helpful to reduce burns associated with radiation treatment.

1. As soon as possible after each radiation treatment, rinse the affected area under running water for at least 10 minutes

2. Apply a 1 cm thick layer of clay to the affected area, leave on for 90 minutes while resting.

3. Remove clay and finish with another 5 minute shower over affected area.

4. Repeat this every day you undergo radiation treatment.