What about “denatured” clay? (sanitized, irradiated, pharmaceutical grade) — are they more pure, and safer to use?

There is a misconception that sanitized (what we’ll refer to as denatured clay), is better, more “pure” and preferred for use in personal care. For people that want a product free of any bacteria (good or bad), scrubbed of metals (bad and good e.g. copper, silver, etc), and altered in its crystalline, molecular structure, then yes, it is technically more “pure”.

Denatured clay can still swell and absorb toxins (although not quite as effectively), and is safe to use externally and internally. However, its use and effectiveness are more limited since it is inert (more like mud).

Most clays on the market are denatured.

If clay is processed in this way, it may be from a contaminated source or a deposit that has been exposed to the environment. OR it is a clay brand that is looking for an FDA seal of approval for internal use. Keep in mind many things many of us feel are safe (like properly handled raw dairy) are not approved by the FDA. The FDA will only give approval if the clay has been denatured.

Calcium bentonite clay, specifically, is no longer living if it is denatured (now a pharmaceutical-grade product).

Side note: In the world of cosmetics and personal care production, products and formulations require preservation.

That means no or low bacteria (platelet) count. Therefore, the ingredients used are sanitized, refined, and/or naturally derived. These products also use synthetic preservatives to curb bacterial growth and extend the shelf-life. This is particularly true of any products that contain water (since water brings life to most bacteria). In other words, most products on the market are inert, so they are considered “safe”. Unfortunately these “safe” products, with preservatives, negatively affect the microbiome along with losing the beneficial bioactive qualities.

IMPORTANT: Consult your physician before beginning any supplement, including edible clay. Do not ingest within 2 hrs of taking prescription drugs. If your skin is highly sensitive, do a patch test first. Keep out of reach of children. Don’t inhale powder.

**This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The information for this webpage and product has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration**