Tyler Woodward | August 3, 2023
6 Uses For Bentonite Clay
Bentonite clay has been used for centuries across cultures for its unique ability to bind, absorb, and purify. Found naturally in volcanic ash deposits, this mineral-rich clay has an impressive capacity to attract and hold onto unwanted substances, making it one of the most versatile wellness tools available today.
Whether you’re interested in skincare, digestive health, or natural household remedies, bentonite clay offers simple, effective ways to support your well-being. Its rich mineral profile and strong absorptive properties make it a gentle, natural option for a wide range of uses.
Below are six of the most popular and beneficial uses for bentonite clay, and why so many people keep it as a staple in their wellness routine.
1. Supporting Digestive Cleansing and Regularity
One of bentonite clay’s most well-known uses is its ability to support the body’s natural digestive cleansing process. Because clay particles carry a strong negative charge, they can attract and bind to positively charged particles in the digestive tract.
This helps:
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support the natural elimination of waste
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promote digestive regularity
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reduce occasional feelings of heaviness
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and create an environment that feels cleaner and more balanced
Bentonite clay does not act as a laxative. Instead, it supports the gut’s normal rhythm by helping move things along more smoothly.
This makes it a popular ingredient in gentle cleansing formulas and reset protocols.
2. Supporting a Healthy Gut Environment
The digestive tract is home to trillions of microorganisms, and maintaining a balanced environment is essential for comfort and well-being. Bentonite clay helps support this environment by binding to various compounds in the gut and assisting in their natural removal.
This can help the gut feel:
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calmer
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lighter
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more settled
Many people use bentonite clay periodically to support digestive harmony, especially after travel, dietary shifts, or periods of stress.
3. A Natural Skin Mask for Clarifying and Purifying
Because of its remarkable ability to absorb oils and impurities, bentonite clay is one of the most common ingredients in natural face masks.
When mixed with water and applied topically, bentonite clay can help:
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remove excess oil
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draw impurities from pores
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leave the skin feeling tight, clean, and refreshed
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support a smoother complexion
It’s especially popular for oily, combination, or congested skin types.
A simple mask recipe:
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1 tbsp bentonite clay
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1–2 tsp filtered water
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optional: a few drops of apple cider vinegar
Apply for 10–15 minutes, rinse, and moisturize.
4. A Natural Deodorizing and Odor-Neutralizing Agent
Bentonite clay’s absorptive properties also make it useful as a natural deodorizer. It can trap moisture and neutralize odor molecules, which is why it’s often found in natural deodorants and DIY home products.
Common uses include:
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deodorizing shoes
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freshening refrigerators
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neutralizing odors in gym gear
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adding to homemade deodorant pastes
To use it on its own, simply sprinkle a small amount into shoes or onto problem areas and let it sit overnight.
5. Supporting Hair and Scalp Health
Bentonite clay can act as a natural clarifying treatment for hair and scalp.
When used as a hair mask, it can help:
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absorb excess oil
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remove product buildup
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support scalp balance
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define natural curls
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leave hair feeling soft and refreshed
A simple scalp and hair rinse:
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Mix 2–3 tbsp bentonite clay
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Add enough water to form a thin paste
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Optional: a splash of apple cider vinegar for shine
Apply from roots to ends, let sit 5–10 minutes, and rinse thoroughly.
6. A Gentle Detox Support for Wellness Routines
Because bentonite clay can bind to unwanted materials, many people include it in seasonal or periodic wellness resets. It’s often used in combination with herbs and minerals that support motility and cleansing.
This is not about “detoxing” in a medical sense, rather, it’s about supporting the body’s natural processes so you feel lighter, clearer, and more comfortable internally.
Bentonite clay works synergistically with:
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digestive herbs
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hydration
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fiber-rich foods
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natural motility supporters
Together, these can help you hit the reset button on your digestive rhythm.
Why Bentonite Clay Works So Well
Bentonite clay’s unique structure gives it:
1. High Absorptive Capacity
It can bind to a wide variety of substances.
2. A Rich Mineral Profile
Containing silica, magnesium, calcium, and trace minerals.
3. A Negative Ionic Charge
Allowing it to attract positively charged particles.
4. Flexibility Across Topical & Internal Uses
From gut support to skincare and household uses.
Its versatility is what makes bentonite clay such a powerful, accessible wellness tool.
A Natural Next Step: Why Bentonite Clay Is a Core Ingredient in zuPOO
If you’re interested in bentonite clay for its digestive cleansing properties, zuPOO incorporates this powerful ingredient into a complete, balanced formula designed to support the body’s natural elimination process.
zuPOO includes:
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bentonite clay
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cascara sagrada
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aloe ferox
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milk thistle
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fennel seed
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ginger root
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cayenne pepper
These ingredients work together to support:
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smoother digestive flow
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feelings of lightness
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natural motility
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periodic cleansing
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and a refreshed, balanced gut
For many people, zuPOO becomes their go-to tool when digestion feels sluggish or when they want a clean, simple reset using natural ingredients.