Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Bentonite clay has primarily been used in traditional and alternative medicine contexts for gut health, including for inflammatory bowel disorders (IBD) such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Its use is based on its high absorbent capacity and its purported ability to bind toxins and irritants in the gastrointestinal tract, which, according to proponents, might help soothe gut inflammation. However, the historical or traditional use of bentonite for IBD is not especially well-documented in classical herbal or ethnomedical texts, and more commonly, its use is promoted in modern alternative health circles. There is a paucity of scientific research specifically evaluating bentonite for IBD, with available studies mostly focusing on general gastrointestinal symptoms like diarrhea or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), not IBD specifically. Some in vitro and animal studies suggest bentonite may adsorb bacteria and toxins, but robust human clinical trials are lacking. Due to insufficient direct evidence for IBD, its use remains supported mainly by anecdote and tradition rather than rigorous scientific validation. Care should also be taken, as improper use of bentonite clay can pose risks such as heavy metal contamination or intestinal blockage.

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