How to Mix a Bentonite Clay Poultice

Bentonite clay is often an ingredient in cosmetic facial masks. It is purported to draw out toxins, according to HappyHerbalist.com (see reference 2). You can even eat this clay to cleanse the colon. Bentonite clay may also help ease inflammation, infection and accelerate wound healing. Make a poultice of the clay and apply it to bee stings, cuts, bug bites and infected wounds.

Instructions

1

Measure about 1 cup of bentonite clay and place it in a bowl.

2

Measure about 1 cup of water and add it to the clay.

3

Mix the clay thoroughly. Add more water as needed. The clay should have the consistency of a gel. According to Eytons' Earth, you have added enough water when the clay can just hold its shape without completely falling apart (see reference 1). The clay should be smooth, with no lumps.

4

Apply the clay to the area you wish to treat. Eytons' Earth recommends applying it to a thickness of 1/4 inch to 3/4 inch (see reference 1).

5

Wrap a bandage around the area gently. The bandage should be loose enough so that it does not put pressure on the area.

6

Leave the clay on the skin for 20 minutes to an hour. If you have applied the poultice to a wound that is draining, remove the clay, clean the wound and reapply another poultice. You may need to do this several times until the wound stops draining.

7

Remove the poultice by taking off the bandage. Rinse off the clay in warm water. You may notice a temporary redness on your skin. According to HappyHerbalist.com, this disappears in about 30 minutes (see reference 2).