Medical uses of clay
The clay is formed due to the decomposition of rocks, clay, from the erosion of wind and water from the rocks (like granite). The resulting pulp is rich in minerals and trace elements, and can be of different colors and have different properties depending on location and soil conditions or where it is collected.
The pre-Columbian cultures of Mexico have been used medicinally to heal this land and to preserve it. In Ayurveda, the clay has many applications and even today the rural northern Indian clay shampoo also is used to give other medicinal applications.
Clay types
There are white, brown, green and gray clay. Different clays are composed of hydrous silicate of alumina in mineral elements which are mixed to produce different colors, which makes the clay have some of its properties as elasticity, plasticity, texture and mineral properties. It has many functions and medical therapeutic applications when combined with other natural alternatives to health.
The clay or superfine mud is one completely free of sand and clay derived from crushed and micronized until a very fine powder and pleasant to use, without impurities. This type of clay is used mainly for aesthetic purposes; it is prepared with masks that are applied in particularly in sensitive areas like the face. They are also used to prepare for natural cosmetics in combination with medicinal plants and flowers in preparation for treating water for domestic use to treat diseases such as bone pain, arthritis, rheumatism, shock, sprains, inflamed liver, kidney problems, lazy stomach, dandruff, hair loss, diabetes, kidney stones, psoriasis, etc.
A good and pure clay should be selected for its capacity, its extraction and recent sun-dried, not kiln temperatures as strong declining regenerative powers.
How to use clay
It can be used by external as pasta, cataplasm, compresses, mud bath, skin beauty, etc., or by internal diluted in water or in capsules under the supervision of a professional.
Here are some types of clay and some of its applications:
White clay
Medicinal use: Used for colitis combined with a good diet, drink clay for three weeks, diluted a bit of clay in a glass of water and drink every morning and afternoon at least 30 minutes before lunch or breakfast. There may be constipation as a side effect.
Aesthetic use: paste applied to the skin, prevents the development of pathogens and promotes cell regeneration. It is capable of attracting foreign matter under the skin and expel from the body. Helps heal fungus. Useful for treating athlete's foot or skin when used as a mask.
Green clay
This clay has absorbent, anti-inflammatory and remineralizing properties.
Medicinal use: used to treat pain associated with arthritis. To this we must prepare a glass of water with clay, adding a teaspoon of vinegar and drink at morning and evening 2 hours before each meal. You can also apply warm compresses on clay joints. This water is good to combat fatigue, hemorrhoids (taking it for 3 weeks, 3 cups per day and reduce half a glass every day.). Water invigorates and helps restore the body. Bruising: Apply arnica ointment to rub the affected area and then apply cold poultice of green clay, and renew every 2 hours until the discomfort.
Aesthetic use: very useful for treating varicose veins and cellulite with massage applied with mud on the water or by applying clay giving a massage on the legs.
The application of water by replacing cataplasm infusion of thyme or red vines and implemented covering all the legs is a good remedy. It is good to regenerate the skin and give it strength, and to exfoliate and nourish.
Clay and skin
Clay is especially effective on the skin, may have both medicinal purposes as a purely aesthetic. This use is not new, since ancient times it has been used for this purpose. In general it is very useful to clean the skin, helps stimulate circulation and absorbs impurities, removing black spots, pimples, acne, etc., regenerating and healing the skin depth. The use of clay is safe and can be used on all skin types when mixed with other ingredients suitable for every skin type as herbs or essential oils such as lemon, the patchuli, lavender, neroli (calming and relaxing), etc. (Do not apply oils directly, always dilute). Aromatherapy and clay make a powerful combination, but we must know to apply, because the skins that are sensitive can become irritated if they are not applied with caution and knowledge.
Preparing clay
It is important not to use metal containers or metal spoons or other tools. It is advisable to use distilled water or purified water or herbs. Utensils of wood, clay or glass are best.