Unique folk methods of clay treatment at home. What is clay, its types and properties

Clay- is a fine-grained sedimentary rock, dusty when dry, plastic when moistened.

Origin of clay.

Clay is a secondary product formed as a result of the destruction of rocks during the weathering process. The main source of clay formations are feldspars, the destruction of which under the influence of atmospheric agents forms silicates of the group of clay minerals. Some clays are formed by the local accumulation of these minerals, but most are sediments from water flows that accumulate at the bottom of lakes and seas.

In general, according to their origin and composition, all clays are divided into:

- sedimentary clays, formed as a result of the transfer to another place and deposition there of clayey and other products of the weathering crust. Based on their origin, sedimentary clays are divided into marine clays, deposited on the seabed, and continental clays, formed on the mainland.

Among marine clays there are:

Coastal- are formed in coastal zones (turbulence zones) of seas, open bays, and river deltas. They are often characterized by unsorted material. They quickly change into sandy and coarse-grained varieties. Replaced by sandy and carbonate deposits along the strike. Such clays are usually interbedded with sandstones, siltstones, coal seams and carbonate rocks.
Lagoon- are formed in sea lagoons, semi-enclosed with a high concentration of salts or desalinated. In the first case, the clays are heterogeneous in granulometric composition, insufficiently sorted and wind together with gypsum or salts. Clays from desalinated lagoons are usually finely dispersed, thin-layered, and contain inclusions of calcite, siderite, iron sulfides, etc. Among these clays there are fire-resistant varieties.
Offshore- are formed at a depth of up to 200 m in the absence of currents. They are characterized by a uniform granulometric composition and large thickness (up to 100 m or more). Distributed over a large area.

Among the continental clays there are:

Deluvial- characterized by a mixed granulometric composition, its sharp variability and irregular layering (sometimes absent).
Ozernye with a uniform granulometric composition and finely dispersed. All clay minerals are present in such clays, but kaolinite and hydromicas, as well as minerals of hydrous oxides Fe and Al, predominate in clays of fresh lakes, and minerals of the montmorillonite group and carbonates predominate in clays of salt lakes. Belongs to lacustrine clays best varieties refractory clays.
Proluvial, formed by temporary flows. Characterized by very poor sorting.
River- developed in river terraces, especially in the floodplain. Usually poorly sorted. They quickly turn into sands and pebbles, most often non-stratified.

Residual - clays resulting from the weathering of various rocks on land, and in the sea as a result of changes in lavas, their ashes and tuffs. Down the section, residual clays gradually transform into parent rocks. The granulometric composition of residual clays is variable - from fine-grained varieties in the upper part of the deposit to uneven-grained ones in the lower part. Residual clays formed from acidic massive rocks are not plastic or have little plasticity; Clays formed during the destruction of sedimentary clay rocks are more plastic. Continental residual clays include kaolins and other eluvial clays. In the Russian Federation, in addition to modern ones, ancient residual clays are widespread - in the Urals, in the West. and Vost. Siberia (there are also many of them in Ukraine) - having a large practical significance. In the mentioned areas, clays predominantly montmorillonite, nontronite, etc. appear on basic rocks, and on medium and acidic rocks - kaolins and hydromica clays. Marine residual clays form a group of bleaching clays composed of minerals of the montmorillonite group.

Clay is everywhere. Not in the sense - in every apartment and plate of borscht, but in every country. And if there are not enough diamonds, yellow metal or black gold in some places, then there is enough clay everywhere. Which, in general, is not surprising - clay, sedimentary rock, is a stone worn by time and external influences to the state of powder. The last stage of stone evolution. Stone-sand-clay. However, the last one? And sand can form into stone - golden and soft sandstone, and clay can become brick. Or a person. Who's got some luck?

The clay is colored by the creator stone and salts of iron, aluminum and similar minerals that happen to be nearby. Various organisms reproduce, live and die in clay. This is how red, yellow, blue, green, pink and other colored clays are obtained.

Previously, clay was mined along the banks of rivers and lakes. Or they dug a hole specifically for it. Then it became possible not to dig the clay yourself, but to buy it from a potter, for example. During our childhood, we dug out ordinary red clay ourselves, and bought noble white clay in stores for artists or, especially pure clay, in a pharmacy. Now a nice little shop selling cosmetics will certainly have clay. True, not quite pure form, and in a mixture with various detergents, moisturizers and nourishing agents.

Our land is rich in clay. Roads and paths cut into loamy soil become sources of dust in the heat, and in slush they become pure mud. Clay dust covered the traveler from head to toe and added homework housewives whose house stood on the road. Surprisingly, there was no less dust near roads covered with asphalt. True, he turned from red to black. Ledum, thickly mixed with clay, not only prevents a pedestrian from walking and a wheel from moving, but also, depending on the mood, you don’t mind swallowing a boot or a jeep.

Clay consists of one or more minerals of the kaolinite group (derived from the name of the area Kaolin in China People's Republic(PRC)), montmorillonite or other layered aluminosilicates (clay minerals), but may also contain sand and carbonate particles. As a rule, the rock-forming mineral in clay is kaolinite, its composition is: 47% silicon (IV) oxide (SiO 2), 39% aluminum oxide (Al 2 O 3) and 14% water (H 2 0). Al2O3 And SiO2- constitute a significant part of the chemical composition of clay-forming minerals.

The diameter of clay particles is less than 0.005 mm; Rocks consisting of larger particles are usually classified as loess. Most clays are gray, but there are clays of white, red, yellow, brown, blue, green, purple and even black. The color is due to impurities of ions - chromophores, mainly iron in valence 3 (red, yellow) or 2 (green, bluish).

Dry clay absorbs water well, but when wet it becomes waterproof. After kneading and mixing, it acquires the property of accepting various shapes and store them after drying. This property is called plasticity. In addition, clay has a binding ability: with powdery solids (sand) it produces a homogeneous “dough” that also has plasticity, but to a lesser extent. Obviously, the more sand or water admixtures in the clay, the lower the plasticity of the mixture.

According to the nature of the clays, they are divided into “fat” and “lean”.

Clays with high plasticity are called “fat” because when soaked they give a tactile sensation of a fatty substance. “Fatty” clay is shiny and slippery to the touch (if you take such clay on your teeth, it slips), and contains few impurities. The dough made from it is tender. Bricks made from such clay crack when dried and fired, and to avoid this, so-called “lean” substances are added to the mix: sand, “lean” clay, burnt brick, potter’s scrap, sawdust and etc.

Clays with low plasticity or non-plasticity are called “lean”. They are rough to the touch, with a matte surface, and when rubbed with a finger, they easily crumble, separating earthy dust particles. “Skinny” clays contain a lot of impurities (they crunch on the teeth); when cut with a knife, they do not produce shavings. Bricks made from “lean” clay are fragile and crumbly.

An important property of clay is its relationship to firing and, in general, to elevated temperatures: if soaked clay in air hardens, dries and is easily wiped into powder without undergoing any internal changes, then at high temperatures chemical processes occur and the composition of the substance changes.

At very high temperatures, clay melts. The temperature of melting (beginning of melting) characterizes the fire resistance of clay, which is not the same for its different varieties. Rare types of clay require colossal heat for firing - up to 2000°C, which is difficult to obtain even in factory conditions. In this case, there is a need to reduce fire resistance. The melting temperature can be reduced by adding the following substances (up to 1% by weight): magnesia, iron oxide, lime. Such additives are called fluxes (fluxes).

The color of the clays is varied: light gray, bluish, yellow, white, reddish, brown with various shades.

Minerals contained in clays:

Kaolinite (Al2O3 2SiO2 2H2O)
Andalusite, disthene and sillimanite (Al2O3 SiO2)
Halloysite (Al2O3 SiO2 H2O)
Hydrargillite (Al2O3 3H2O)
Diaspore (Al2O3 H2O)
Corundum (Al2O3)
Monothermite (0.20 Al2O3 2SiO2 1.5H2O)
Montmorillonite (MgO Al2O3 3SiO2 1.5H2O)
Muscovite (K2O Al2O3 6SiO2 2H2O)
Narkite (Al2O3 SiO2 2H2O)
Pyrophyllite (Al2O3 4SiO2 H2O)

Minerals contaminating clays and kaolins:

Quartz(SiO2)
gypsum (CaSO4 2H2O)
dolomite (MgO CaO CO2)
Calcite (CaO CO2)
Glauconite (K2O Fe2O3 4SiO2 10H2O)
Limonite (Fe2O3 3H2O)
Magnetite (FeO Fe2O3)
Marcasite (FeS2)
Pyrite (FeS2)
Rutile (TiO2)
Serpentine (3MgO 2SiO2 2H2O)
Siderite (FeO CO2)

Clay appeared on earth many thousands of years ago. Its “parents” are considered to be rock-forming minerals known in geology - kaolinites, spars, some varieties of mica, limestones and marbles. Under certain conditions, even some types of sand transform into clay. All known rocks that have geological outcrops on the surface of the earth are subject to the influence of the elements - rain, whirlwind storms, snow and flood waters.

Temperature changes day and night, heating of the rock sun rays promote the appearance of microcracks. Water enters the resulting cracks and, freezing, breaks the surface of the stone, forming on it a large number of the smallest dust. Natural cyclones crush and grind dust into even finer dust. Where the cyclone changes its direction or simply dies down, huge accumulations of rock particles form over time. They are pressed, soaked in water, and the result is clay.

Depending on what rock the clay is formed from and how it is formed, it acquires different colors. The most common clays are yellow, red, white, blue, green, dark brown and black. All colors, except black, brown and red, indicate the deep origin of the clay.

The colors of clay are determined by the presence of the following salts in it:

red clay - potassium, iron;
greenish clay - copper, ferrous iron;
blue clay - cobalt, cadmium;
dark brown and black clay - carbon, iron;
yellow clay - sodium, ferric iron, sulfur and its salts.

Various colored clays.

We can also give an industrial classification of clays, which is based on the assessment of these clays based on a combination of a number of characteristics. For example, this appearance products, color, sintering (melting) interval, resistance of the product to sudden changes in temperature, as well as the strength of the product to impacts. Based on these characteristics, you can determine the name of the clay and its purpose:

china clay
earthenware clay
white-burning clay
brick and tile clay
pipe clay
clinker clay
capsule clay
terracotta clay

Practical use of clay.

Clays are widely used in industry (in the production of ceramic tiles, refractories, fine ceramics, porcelain-faience and sanitary ware), construction (production of bricks, expanded clay and other building materials), for household needs, in cosmetics and as a material for artwork(modeling). Expanded clay gravel and sand produced from expanded clay by annealing with swelling are widely used in the production of building materials (expanded clay concrete, expanded clay concrete blocks, wall panels, etc.) and as a heat and sound insulating material. This is a lightweight porous building material obtained by firing low-melting clay. It has the shape of oval granules. It is also produced in the form of sand - expanded clay sand.

Depending on the clay processing mode, expanded clay of different bulk density (volume weight) is obtained - from 200 to 400 kg/M3 and higher. Expanded clay has high heat and noise insulation properties and is used primarily as a porous filler for lightweight concrete, which has no serious alternative. Expanded clay concrete walls are durable, have high sanitary and hygienic characteristics, and expanded clay concrete structures built more than 50 years ago are still in use today. Housing built from prefabricated expanded clay concrete is cheap, high quality and affordable. The most major manufacturer expanded clay is Russia.

Clay is the basis of pottery and brick production. When mixed with water, clay forms a dough-like plastic mass suitable for further processing. Depending on the place of origin, natural raw materials have significant differences. One can be used in its pure form, the other must be sifted and mixed to obtain a material suitable for the manufacture of various trade items.

Natural red clay.

In nature, this clay has a greenish-brown color, which is given to it by iron oxide (Fe2O3), which makes up 5-8% of the total mass. When fired, depending on the temperature or type of oven, the clay acquires a red or whitish color. It kneads easily and can withstand heating of no more than 1050-1100 C. The great elasticity of this type of raw material allows it to be used for working with clay plates or for modeling small sculptures.

White clay.

Its deposits are found all over the world. When wet, it is light gray, and after firing it becomes whitish or ivory. White clay is characterized by elasticity and translucency due to the absence of iron oxide in its composition.

Clay is used to make dishes, tiles, and plumbing items, or for crafts made from clay plates. Firing temperature: 1050-1150 °C. Before glazing, it is recommended to work in an oven at a temperature of 900-1000 °C. (Firing of unglazed porcelain is called bisque firing.)

Porous ceramic mass.

Clay for ceramics is a white mass with a moderate calcium content and high porosity. Its natural color ranges from pure white to greenish-brown. Burns when low temperatures. Unfired clay is recommended, as for some glazes a single firing is not sufficient.

Majolica is a type of raw material made from fusible clay with a high content of white alumina, fired at a low temperature and covered with a glaze containing tin.

The name "majolica" comes from the island of Mallorca, where it was first used by the sculptor Florentino Luca de la Robbia (1400-1481). Later this technique was widespread in Italy. Ceramic trade items made from majolica were also called earthenware, since their production began in workshops for the production of earthenware.

Stone ceramic mass.

The basis of these raw materials are fireclay, quartz, kaolin and feldspar. When wet it has a black-brown color, and after wet firing it has an ivory color. When applying glaze, stone ceramics are transformed into a durable, waterproof and fireproof product. It can be very thin, opaque or in the form of a homogeneous, densely sintered mass. Recommended firing temperature: 1100-1300 °C. If it is disturbed, the clay may crumble. The material is used in various technologies for making commercial pottery items from lamellar clay and for modeling. Trade items made of red clay and stone ceramics are distinguished depending on their technical properties.

Clay for porcelain trade objects consists of kaolin, quartz and feldspar. It does not contain iron oxide. When wet it has a light gray color, after firing it is white. Recommended firing temperature: 1300-1400 °C. This type of raw material is elastic. Working with it on a pottery wheel requires high technical costs, so it is better to use ready-made forms. This is a hard, non-porous clay (with low water absorption - Ed.). After firing, the porcelain becomes transparent. Glaze firing takes place at a temperature of 900-1000 °C.

Various porcelain trade items, molded and fired at 1400°C.

Large-pored, coarse-grained ceramic materials are used for the manufacture of large-sized trade items in construction, small-form architecture, etc. These grades withstand high temperatures and thermal fluctuations. Their plasticity depends on the content of quartz and aluminum (silica and alumina - Ed.) in the rock. IN general structure a lot of alumina with a high chamotte content. The melting point ranges from 1440 to 1600 °C. The material sinteres well and shrinks slightly, so it is used to create large objects and large-format wall panels. When making artistic objects, the temperature should not exceed 1300°C.

This is a clay mass containing an oxide or colorful pigment, which is a homogeneous mixture. If, penetrating deep into the clay, part of the paint remains suspended, then the even tone of the raw material may be disrupted. Both colored and ordinary white or porous clay can be purchased in specialized stores.

Masses with colored pigment.

Pigments- these are inorganic compounds that color clay and glaze. Pigments can be divided into two groups: oxides and colorants. Oxides are the main naturally occurring material that forms among rocks earth's crust, cleaned and sprayed. Most often used: copper oxide, which in the oxidizing firing environment takes green color; cobalt oxide, which produces blue tones; iron oxide, which gives blue tones when mixed with glaze, and earth tones when mixed with clay. Chromium oxide gives the clay an olive green color, magnesium oxide gives it brown and purple tones, and nickel oxide gives it a grayish-green color. All these oxides can be mixed with clay in a proportion of 0.5-6%. If their percentage is exceeded, the oxide will act as a flux, lowering the melting point of the clay. When painting trade items, the temperature should not exceed 1020 °C, otherwise firing will not produce results. The second group is dyes. They get them industrially or by mechanical processing of natural materials that present a full range of colors. Dyes are mixed with clay in a proportion of 5-20%, which determines the light or dark tone of the material. All specialized stores have an assortment of pigments and dyes for both clay and engobes.

Preparing ceramic mass requires a lot of attention. It can be composed in two ways, which give absolutely different results. A more logical and reliable way: add dyes under pressure. A simpler and, of course, less reliable method: mix dyes into the clay by hand. The second method is used if there is no exact idea about the final coloring results or there is a need to repeat certain colors.

Technical ceramics.

Technical ceramics - large group ceramic trade items and materials obtained heat treatment masses of a given chemical composition from mineral raw materials and other high-quality raw materials that have the necessary strength and electrical properties (high volume and surface resistivity, high electrical strength, small dielectric loss tangent).

Cement production.

To make cement, calcium carbonate and clay are first extracted from quarries. Calcium carbonate (approximately 75% of the quantity) is crushed and thoroughly mixed with clay (approximately 25% of the mixture). Dosing of starting materials is an extremely difficult process, since the lime content must correspond to the specified amount with an accuracy of 0.1%.

These relations are defined in specialized literature concepts of “calcareous”, “siliceous” and “alumina” modules. Since the chemical composition of the starting raw materials constantly fluctuates due to geological origin, it is easy to understand how difficult it is to maintain a constant modulus. In modern cement plants, computer control in combination with automatic analysis methods has proven itself well.

Properly composed sludge, prepared depending on the chosen technology (dry or wet method), is introduced into a rotary kiln (up to 200 m long and up to 2-7 m in diameter) and fired at a temperature of about 1450 °C - the so-called sintering temperature. At this temperature, the material begins to melt (sinter), it leaves the furnace in the form of more or less large clods clinker (sometimes called Portland cement clinker). Firing occurs.

As a result of these reactions, clinker materials are formed. After leaving the rotary kiln, the clinker enters the cooler, where it is sharply cooled from 1300 to 130 °C. After cooling, the clinker is crushed with a small addition of gypsum (maximum 6%). The size of cement grains ranges from 1 to 100 microns. It is better illustrated by the concept of “specific surface area”. If we sum up the surface area of the grains in one gram of cement, then, depending on the grinding thickness of the cement, we get values from 2000 to 5000 cm² (0.2-0.5 m²). The predominant part of cement in special containers is transported by road or by rail. All overloads are performed pneumatically. A minority of cement products are delivered in moisture- and tear-resistant paper bags. Cement is stored at construction sites mainly in liquid and dry states.

Supporting Information.

Hello dear readers. Today we are talking about the fact that taking clay internally - good way improve your health. Such a remedy can be bought at a pharmacy or cosmetic store, or obtained independently.

Clay from a pharmacy or store can be either in the form of a powder, from which a medicinal solution is prepared for internal and external use, or in the form of finished medications used as prescribed by a doctor.

Clay that was mined independently needs preliminary cleaning and preparation. In addition, it is not always possible to treat with it: if you have a piece of such a substance lying around somewhere, it is not at all necessary that it is suitable for preparing a medicine.

Types of clay for oral administration

There are many types of clays. Only a few of them are used in cosmetology and medicine:

palygorskite;
bentonite;
kaolin.

For oral administration, the pharmaceutical industry produces drugs based on the first two substances.

In folk medicine, clay found near a person's place of residence is used. Usually these are kaolins with impurities of various trace elements, which determine their color (red, yellow, green, white, blue).

It is assumed that such clay for oral administration contains the most suitable complex of microelements. If you decide to collect it yourself, you need to find a layer that lies as deep as possible.

Remember that clay for oral administration, collected in an unfamiliar place, contains a large amount of impurities harmful to humans. These may be heavy metals harmful bacteria, foreign inclusions. Therefore, clay for oral administration is not collected nearby:

with cemeteries;
cattle burial grounds;
along roads;
near hazardous industries;
next to cesspools.

Clay absorbs all harmful substances like a sponge, being located not only in the human stomach and intestines, but also in the soil. If collected in the wrong place, it can become a source of severe infection.

Forms of release of finished clay for oral administration

Clay for oral administration is available in several options:

finished pharmaceutical preparation with detailed instructions by application;
in a piece if the clay was mined with your own hands;
purchased powder for self-preparation.

Clay water or balls are prepared from the powder. Pharmaceutical preparations are also presented in powders, but deviating from the instructions when using them is prohibited.

Preparing a medicinal product from clay obtained independently has some nuances, for example, it must be prepared in a certain way if it is collected independently.

Taking clay internally in the form of pharmaceuticals

Among the many medicines Based on clay, we will highlight the 3 most effective ones used by official medicine:

Ultrasorb (made in Russia).
Benta (made in Ukraine).
Smecta (made in France).

Ultrasorb

The drug consists of 3 parts palygorskite and 2 fibrous carbon. Palygorskite is a rather rare substance with many advantages, the main one of which is the ability to absorb radioactive cesium isotopes. Fibrous coal contains modifying minerals - potassium, magnesium, zinc.

Ultrasorb is available only in powder form. Scope of application: people working in extreme conditions exposed to radio irradiation and heavy metal poisoning. Among the indications:

chronic and acute intoxication;
chronic hepatitis;
hemablastosis (complex therapy).

Ultrasorb has a minimum of contraindications - damage to the gastrointestinal tract and related diseases. Pregnant and lactating women are allowed to use the drug only under medical supervision.

Ultrasorb is used in the form of clay water. It is diluted according to the instructions (0.5 - 1 g, it all depends on the doctor’s prescription, in ⅓ - ½ glass of water) and drunk one and a half to two hours before meals.

Frequency of administration: 2 - 3 times a day, duration - 1 - 2 weeks. One of the side effects of Ultrasorb is constipation. It can also occur with an overdose.

Benta (bentonite)

The preparation contains bentonite from the Kudrinskoye deposit (2 parts) and saponite with a high magnesium content (1 part).

Bentonites are excellent sorbents. Benta is indicated for digestive problems (diarrhea) and inflammation of the intestines/stomach (auxiliary treatment).

Contraindications include individual intolerance and intestinal obstruction. Not recommended for children under 1 year of age.

Benta is used as clay water. It is prepared as follows:

Pour 50 ml of water into a glass.
Pour 2-3 sachets of the product into it slowly.
Stir well.
Drink the resulting suspension.

Smecta

The composition of this drug is similar to Benta. The base is bentonite or dioctahedral smectite. Additionally, the composition includes flavoring, dextrose monohydrate, and sodium saccharinate.

Among the indications:

diarrhea of various types, including infectious, allergic, drug-induced;
heartburn;
bloating;
dyspepsia.

In this case, taking clay orally in the form of this drug has the following contraindications:

fructose intolerance;
glucose-galactose malabsorption;
intestinal obstruction;
individual intolerance.

Smecta is approved for use by pregnant and lactating women; additional medical consultation is not required.

The drug is used in the form of clay water. The number of sachets required for each diagnosis is dissolved in half a glass of water. The solution is divided into several doses.

During the period of treatment with clay, both in preparations and in the form of self-prepared suspensions, it is forbidden to drink coffee, tea, alcoholic drinks, consume dairy products, especially milk.

Clay water for oral administration

Ready-made powder clay, purchased at a pharmacy, does not require preliminary preparation and is immediately ready for use. Clay collected by hand must be properly prepared before preparing the medicinal solution:

Take a piece of clay. It should be smooth, shiny, greasy to the touch, with a minimum of foreign inclusions.
Break the piece into small pieces. Using a rolling pin, chop as fine as possible.
Take a fine sieve (for flour) and sift the resulting powder.
Pour the prepared mixture into a glass or plastic bowl and place in the sun.

Cooking methods

Clay water can be prepared in different ways.

The usual ratio of clay and liquid for its preparation is 1 tablespoon per glass. The maximum consumption rate for the treatment of various diseases is no more than 100 grams of clay per day. They are divided into three doses of approximately 33 grams.

Method No. 1.

Classic, water plus dry powder. The amount of clay required by the recipe is poured with cold or warm water and stirred thoroughly with a wooden, plastic or silver spoon. The resulting solution must be drunk slowly.

If a person is weakened, the clay water is allowed to settle, after which the liquid is drunk, the sediment is not touched. The same composition is recommended for children.

Method number 2.

Clay mother liquor (basic, concentrated) solution. Take a glass or other glass container, fill ⅔ of the volume with clay powder, add water, stir. You will get a creamy mixture.

Fill a clean glass with boiled or artesian water, add 1 teaspoon of the mother solution and stir. Allow the suspended particles to settle, after which the mixture can be consumed. It is recommended to drink a glass of this clay water in equal portions throughout the day.

In both methods, you can use infusion rather than water to dissolve clay medicinal herbs. Before taking, add a teaspoon of honey to a glass with the prepared mixture.

Clay water prepared using the first method cannot be stored for more than a day. The mother solution is suitable for use for an unlimited amount of time. To enhance its properties, it is recommended to place the container with it in the sun (fresh air).

Indications and contraindications

Taking clay internally treats a large list of diseases:

diseases of the gastrointestinal tract (gastrointestinal tract);
metabolic disease;
intoxication due to food poisoning;
stones in gallbladder and kidneys;
atherosclerosis;
acute respiratory infections/ARVI;
gum disease;
and others.

Taking clay orally in the form of ready-made medicines has a small list of contraindications:

individual intolerance,
arterial hypertension.
conditions accompanied elevated temperature bodies;
acute diseases and exacerbations of chronic diseases.

Taking clay internally - folk recipes

Kaolins of different colors have found their use in folk medicine. Below are several unique recipes on how to take clay correctly for certain diseases.

To avoid the mistake of collecting clay that is not suitable for internal use, go to your nearest pharmacy and buy the required amount of industrially prepared powder.

Most often, white or g is used for oral administration.

Treatment of joints with clay

To prepare clay water, use an infusion of Golden Usher leaves. It is prepared like this:

Take a couple of mustaches, at least 20 cm long (or several leaves, the total length of which is 40 cm), finely chop and place in a liter jar.
Pour boiling water over the raw materials, wrap them in a blanket, and let them cool naturally.
After a day, use the infusion to prepare a glass of classic clay water.

Taking clay internally for the treatment of joints involves consuming this composition 5 - 6 times a day. Drink it in equal portions. You are allowed to eat half an hour after taking the clay orally.

Additionally, make clay baths, lotions and wraps for sore joints.

Oral treatment with clay

Stomatitis, periodontal disease, and periodontitis are also treated by taking clay internally and rinsing the mouth with clay water.

An excellent addition would be the resorption of clay balls. They are prepared using juices, decoctions, and infusions from the following plants:

oak bark (decoction);
juniper (infusion);
aloe (juice);
lingonberry leaves (infusion, decoction);
sage (infusion).

You can combine all of the listed healing liquids in equal quantities, mix blue clay dough on them, roll it into dense balls and dissolve them, trying to ensure that the product spreads throughout the oral cavity as much as possible.

Separately, it is worth mentioning the water infusion of bee propolis. Knead clay dough based on it. The result will not take long to arrive.

Treatment of sore throat and cough with clay

Prepare a solution from licorice root or a decoction of any pharmaceutical expectorant. Make classic clay water by using one of the suggested infusions/decoctions as a liquid.

Divide a glass of this water into 3 doses, do not eat for 30 minutes after drinking the solution, additionally make a clay ball by preparing it with aqueous propolis tincture, place it under the tongue and hold until completely dissolved.

An additional treatment for sore throat and cough would be clay throat lotions or wrapping the neck with a rag dipped in a clay solution. It should have the consistency of liquid sour cream. Keep the compress on your throat until it dries.

Treatment of diabetes with clay

Taking clay orally for diabetes mellitus will significantly ease the course of the disease and the patient’s condition.

Clay water is prepared in a classic way, using freshly prepared artichoke juice as the liquid. If it is not possible to obtain it, you can replace it with artichoke powder by adding the number of spoons required according to the instructions to a glass of water.

The resulting solution (glass) is stretched throughout the day, consumed in small portions, half an hour before meals. Last dose in the evening, before bed, 2 - 3 hours after the last meal.

Taking clay internally for cleansing and weight loss

Taking clay internally for weight loss and cleansing the body is carried out according to a certain method. It lasts a month and consists of 4 stages:

First week.

Clay water is taken every morning. Prepare it at the rate of half a teaspoon per glass of lukewarm water. The solution is thoroughly stirred and drunk, avoiding precipitation. Have breakfast in half an hour.

Exclude white bread, pasta, pastries, cheeses, sausages, meat from your diet, and include a large amount of vegetables and fruits rich in fiber and vitamins. The liquid should be clean boiled or bottled water.

Second week.

The dosage regimen is the same, only the concentration of clay water is different - 1 teaspoon per glass of lukewarm water. To improve the taste, you can add a little lemon juice.

Third week.

The dosage regimen remains the same - in the morning, on an empty stomach. The concentration of clay water increases. Now when cooking, use a full tablespoon per glass of lukewarm water.

Fourth week.

Prepare clay balls (see above for how to do this). Use them throughout the day (the total weight of the clay should be no more than 20 g). Eat 30 - 60 minutes after they are absorbed.

To enhance the weight loss effect of taking clay internally, you can additionally do this.

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Humanity has long been familiar with the healing properties of clay. Even in ancient times, it was used not only for making dishes, but also for medicinal purposes. The Egyptians used this product for embalming, and ancient scientists and doctors, describing the clay, spoke of its healing power. The famous Russian doctor Botkin successfully used it to treat diseases of the heart and blood vessels, Graves' disease, and work disorders nervous system. Today, clay is widely used in both official and alternative medicine; it is used to eliminate cosmetic problems. As you can see, the uses of clay are extensive, so let’s talk in more detail about what clay is, medicinal properties and application, about the use of clay by humans for health purposes.

What exactly is clay? It is a sedimentary fine-grained rock, plastic when moistened and dusty when dry. Clay consists of the minerals montmorillonite, kaolinite or other layered aluminosilicates. Its mineral composition is so diverse that it is comparable almost to fruits or vegetables. It is able to absorb carcinogens and toxins, thereby cleansing the body. The clay is high in silicon and aluminum, contains calcium, magnesium, iron oxide and other oxides, and also contains titanium anhydride.

It is often used to treat atherosclerosis, tuberculosis and even multiple sclerosis, precisely due to its high silicon content.

Clay is divided into different types depending on the color, which is determined by the increased presence of salts and other components in it. This determines the range of its use.

Blue clay is high in cobalt and cadmium. It is most often used for medical purposes.

Red contains potassium and iron. Thanks to these substances, it has a good effect on joints, muscles and spine. Mainly used for appliques.

Green contains a lot of divalent iron and copper. It is suitable for the treatment of tumors, liver, pancreas. It is used to treat oily skin and hair.

Black and dark brown contain a lot of iron and carbon. It is used in the cosmetics industry.

In yellow - sulfur, sodium, ferric iron. It is used to make compresses and applications for sore joints. It also treats skin rashes and cellulite.

The properties of clay depend on the size of its particles. They have enormous adsorption abilities, the surface area of which is about 80 square meters per gram. The sizes of the particles and their properties are directly related to the origin of the clay.

High adsorption allows clay to absorb toxins, putrefactive elements, and harmful acids. It is used to treat tumors, both benign and malignant.

There is a theory that by using clay you can positively influence the human biofield.

Blue clay is mainly used for treatment.

Its external use occurs for radiculitis, arthritis, diseases of muscles and tendons, skin ailments, disorders menstrual cycle, prostatitis and colds.

Moreover, it can be used both for chronic ailments and for acute forms of disease.

Clay is used for lotions, wraps, and rubbing. Place it on the sore spot with a tile one and a half to two centimeters thick. However, it can be cold, warm or slightly warmed, depending on the disease.

For example, warm clay is used for diseases of the kidneys, liver and joints. And if abscesses are being treated, it is recommended to apply compresses of clay water and replace them regularly.

Clay can also be used for douching for various diseases of women genitourinary system. At the same time, take 3-4 tablespoons per liter of water. In this case, the water should be heated to body temperature.

When treated with clay, quite serious deterioration of the condition can be observed. But often they do not require cessation of therapy, but merely indicate the release of toxins from the body.

Clay treatment is best carried out in combination with dietary nutrition, massages, douches, sunbathing, aromatherapy and foot reflexology.

There are methods for internal use of clay. To do this, it is best to take it in a whole piece, fatty, without foreign impurities. By taking it orally, they treat atherosclerosis, ailments digestive system, kidneys, liver, gall bladder, blood and skin.

Clay balls are an excellent remedy against oral diseases and tooth pain. They should just be sucked and rolled in your mouth.

Clay is great for purifying water. To do this, take one piece per liter of water. After this, the container with water should be set aside and allowed to stand for a couple of hours. Rest assured - clay absorbs all toxins and toxic substances.

Clay is also widely used in the cosmetics industry. It is used to care for the entire body, preparing cleansing and rejuvenating masks.

You can make this mask yourself by mixing it to a paste with cucumber juice and water. Apply the resulting mixture to your face and leave until completely dry.

Rinse it off warm water. This mask will have a cleansing, nourishing and tightening effect. But you shouldn’t do it more often than once a week.

In conclusion, let me remind you about the use of clay for storing vegetable harvests. Many gardeners, before storing carrots and potatoes, dip the fruits in a clay mash. Then, after drying, a protective film is created around the vegetable. Practice shows that crops processed in this way are stored longer.

As you can see, using clay has a lot of options and possibilities. Its medicinal properties make it possible to treat, because it has practically no contraindications, and therefore is successfully used in various branches of medical science, it preserves the harvest, and it can also take care of the beauty of your skin. Conclusion - clay has many faces and is certainly useful!

Such a common natural component as clay has always been popular with mankind, not only in the construction industry and crafts, but also in the treatment of many ailments and for cosmetic purposes. Our distant ancestors knew the benefits of clay and passed on knowledge about its healing effects for centuries.

It is only to the “uninitiated” person that clay appears as a viscous substance of incomprehensible color. Scientists know what it is - the most valuable combination grains of quartz, silicon oxides, mica, aluminum, potassium compounds, potassium compounds, iron, copper, potassium compounds, magnesium and manganese, mineral salts, micro- and macroelements.

However, clay could be rated “excellent” in terms of usefulness based on its silicon content alone. After all, its deficiency in the body lowers the immune defense and causes the development of atherosclerosis, strokes and heart attacks. In addition, silicon ensures the absorption of calcium and is responsible for the restructuring of elastin and collagen fibers, and accordingly, affects the condition of nails, skin and hair.

Clay also contains radium, a radioactive element that is used in the manufacture of drugs for the treatment of cancer. By the way, many doctors strongly recommend edible clay as a cancer prevention, because it is a universal sorbent that can absorb toxins, radionuclides, and heavy metals.

Add to the list of “benefits” the antibacterial and enveloping effects of clay, its ability to normalize metabolism and activate blood circulation - and you will understand that this is one of nature’s unique gifts to man.

The list of diseases that external and internal use of clay can cure is impressive: chronic diseases of the joints and spine, headaches, nervous disorders, gastritis, bladder diseases, intestinal colic, skin and gynecological diseases, stomach ulcer, various bruises and injuries.

However, the beneficial properties directly depend on the color of the clay.

Blue clay Known for its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and cleansing properties. Has proven itself in the treatment of burns, ulcers, thrombophlebitis, diseases respiratory system, toothache, cold, headache.

White clay- an excellent antiseptic, therefore it is widely used in cosmetology in the treatment of acne. Stimulates metabolic reactions and skin circulation, helps strengthen hair follicles.

Yellow clay highly effective for the treatment of radiculitis, arthritis and neuritis. This is an excellent sorbent that rids the body of toxins and waste.

Red clay works great for anemia and anemia, enhances hematopoiesis. Effective in treating joints, spine, muscles.

Green clay, enriched with magnesium and iron, has worked well in healing the legs. It significantly improves blood circulation and the functioning of the venous system in the legs, relieves swelling, eliminates varicose veins veins And most importantly, green clay is endowed with tumor-inhibiting functions and treats fibroids and mastopathy.

Clay treatment

Clay is used externally as compresses, applications, and lotions. For some ailments, only cold clay is used. It causes vasoconstriction, treats well sprains, bruises, hematomas, skin inflammation, stops bleeding, relieves inflammation of tissues and joints

Warm clay warms up disease areas such as rheumatism, arthritis, arthrosis, and polyarthritis.

do not place clay compresses on the chest and stomach area, never reuse clay

Preparation of medicinal clay - recipes

Mix powdered clay of the required color with water 1:1, stirring without interruption with a wooden or glass spatula (not metal!), until a homogeneous creamy viscosity.

Treatment of arthritis, osteochondrosis, arthrosis, gout. Fold a cloth napkin in four to form a layer of 1.5-2 cm, apply clay heated to 40-45ºC on it and level it with a spatula. Treat the affected area with alcohol or other disinfectant and apply a clay compress. Strengthen it with a bandage and wrap it warmly. After 2-3 hours, remove and wash the area with warm water, dry and wrap again with warm material.

Treatment of bruises, injuries, sprains. Make cold clay applications twice a day for 2-3 hours.

Treatment of a runny nose. Heat the clay to 40 ºС and apply 4 times a day for 20 minutes in the forehead and on the sinuses (right and left side of the nose), when treating sinusitis - on the maxillary sinuses (to the right and left of the nose).

Treatment of toothache. Mash the clay heated to 40 ºC to form a cake and apply it to the gum above the sore tooth, at the same time apply a compress to the cheek from warm clay.

Treatment of otitis. Make an application of clay heated to 40 ºС behind the ear.

Make a compress on your forehead from clay mixed with yogurt 15 minutes before bedtime.

Treatment of colds. Wrap a sheet moistened with a clay solution (4 tablespoons of clay per 1 liter of water), wrap it in cellophane on top and cover with a blanket. After 2 hours, get rid of the compress and remove the remaining clay with a damp towel, and go back to bed.

Treatment of sore throat. Mix 1 tsp. blue clay in 1 liter of water and gargle. The procedure is performed 5 times a day, immediately after it rinse your throat with clean warm water. At the same time, clay applications are recommended 2 times a day on the neck, which are wrapped in a scarf for 2 hours. The procedures continue until the pain disappears.

Edible clay and clay therapy

For the sake of truth, it is worth saying that there is no clear expert opinion on the use of edible clay internally. Some believe that this can provoke upset of any healthy stomach, while others, on the contrary, are sure that clay can even heal an ulcer. Therefore, it is better not to prescribe clay therapy for yourself, but to consult a doctor.

For oral administration, blue clay is most suitable, containing an optimal proportion of calcium, silicon and kaolin - an excellent adsorbent. You can also take red and white clay.

Collection and preparation of clay

It is advisable to buy edible clay in pharmacies, but not necessary.

For internal use, oily, pure clay without added sand is used (the deeper it is from the surface of the earth, the better). It is prohibited to collect it on the side of roads or near enterprises. It is better to do this in the forest, nature reserves, summer cottage(where fertilizers are not used).

Break a whole piece of clay into small pieces and grind into powder using a mortar. Sift with a sieve and dry in the sun. Store in wooden, enamel or unfired earthenware containers, which are occasionally exposed to the sun.

Principles of treatment with edible clay

Treatment with edible clay is carried out subject to the following rules:

do not consume clay on an empty stomach
use only fresh clay each time
do not dilute the powder with hot water, otherwise the clay will lose its healing properties
during clay therapy, try not to get too cold
The diluted powder is not drunk in one gulp, but in small sips.
after taking the clay, you need to lie down for 15-30 minutes or take a bath with medicinal herbs

Treatment with food clay - recipes

For constipation 50 gr. mix clay with a glass cold water and consume 3 times a day after meals.

For severe cough try sucking a piece of clay in your mouth.

To cleanse the body 1 tsp. blue clay is mixed with a glass of water and drunk. Take clay water for 2 weeks.

For diabetes The following recipe helps: pour 5 tbsp into a transparent container. l. clay, add 1 liter of water and leave in the sun. Infuse the liquid for 2-3 days. Take 2-3 tbsp every 30 minutes. l., first holding it in the mouth for 3 minutes. Shake the liquid before use. Treatment - 3-4 days.

For diseases of the gastrointestinal tract dissolve 0.5 tsp. blue or white clay in one glass of water and drink 3 times before meals and before bed. Gradually increase the dosage to 2 tsp. clay. Treatment can last a couple of months, but with breaks (for example, drink clay water for 21 days, then take a break for 10 days).

For severe tooth sensitivity try lubricating them with white clay. Just dip your finger in the powder, apply to the enamel and lightly massage the gums. Improvement will come immediately.

Clay can purify water - it acts as an absorbent, purifying water from toxins and harmful substances. To clean, just add a little clay to the water and wait until it settles. It is useful to drink this water daily during outbreaks of infectious diseases.

Harm of clay

Clay can also cause harm to the body. Like any sorbent, if used improperly or overdosed, it can remove vitamins and other necessary substances, so - we repeat - try to carry out treatment with clay on the advice of a doctor. Blood tests will allow you to notice abnormalities and instantly adjust treatment.

I would, of course, like to call clay a panacea for all diseases, but - alas! Such a universal medicine does not yet exist on Earth. This means that there are diseases for which clay therapy is contraindicated or useless. These include: open form of tuberculosis, osteoporosis, acute cardiovascular failure (angina pectoris, heart attack, extrasystole, tachycardia), diseases of the eyes and hearing organs, liver and kidneys, fungal and infectious diseases of the genitourinary area, febrile conditions.

And finally - the most important thing: having learned how clay is useful and deciding to engage in clay therapy, you should understand that it can only be used as an additional means of complex therapy.

It has been said more than once that the nature of our planet is rich in priceless plants, minerals and useful material. Since ancient times, humanity has been studying these natural gifts and finding application for them in a variety of fields: traditional and folk medicine, cosmetology, food and other types of industry.

In the article we will talk about clay, and specifically about kaolin (white clay) - what it is, where it comes from, how to use it and whether there are contraindications to its use.

White clay (kaolin) - what is it?

In a pharmacy or store, you probably came across bags of grayish-blue powder with the inscription “White Clay”. You may have been puzzled as to what it is and what it is for. Let's look into this issue.

Another name for white clay is kaolin. It did not arise by chance. The fact is that such a mineral was first discovered in the Chinese province of Kaolin, as a result of which it received its name. The basis of this mineral is aluminosilicates. The unique chemical composition provides materials with the ability to absorb, that is, absorb other substances.

White clay contains valuable microelements such as magnesium, copper, calcium, silicon, nitrogen, zinc and others. It also contains mineral salts. What is especially pleasing is that all these components are perfectly absorbed by the human body, and therefore kaolin can be used not only as an external agent, but also internally.

The effectiveness of a mineral directly depends on the degree of its purification. You can determine a quality product yourself. To do this, carefully examine the powder. This is especially convenient if it is sold in transparent packaging. The purer and whiter the color of the substance, the higher the quality of kaolin. Pay special attention to this if you are going to use white clay inside. Poor quality product may not only be ineffective, but also harm your health.

White clay or kaolin - area of application

So, let's find out in what areas such a valuable natural mineral is used:

Dentistry.

It is simply impossible to imagine dental care without kaolin. It is included in toothpastes; chewing lozenges also often contain white clay in their composition. The action of products used to whiten the surface of teeth, remove tartar, and also disinfect the oral cavity is also often based on the cleansing and absorbent properties of kaolin.

By the way! You can whiten your teeth a little, especially before an important event, on your own, at home. To do this, add a drop of white clay powder to your toothpaste while brushing your teeth. The effect will be noticeable, but the enamel will not be damaged.

Cosmetology.

Almost every girl is familiar with white clay as a means to improve her appearance. Kaolin can be used on all parts of the body and face, starting with the heels and ending with the ends of the hair.

First of all, let's talk about the use of this mineral for facial skin care. It is recommended for those with oily and combination skin types to pay attention to this product. The fact is that kaolin powder, diluted with water or milk, can be used as a mask. It perfectly absorbs excess sebum. With regular use, the level of fat production stabilizes, the problem of clogged pores disappears, and the number of inflammations and acne decreases.

A white clay face mask whitens the skin, makes post-acne marks less noticeable, saturates tissues with oxygen, makes the skin toned and elastic, smoothes out fine wrinkles, and accelerates the processes of cell and tissue regeneration.

But those with dry skin should avoid this type of clay, as kaolin will further aggravate the problem of dryness. It is better to pay attention to red or green clay.

A white clay mask is also effective for strengthening hair. To do this, you need to dilute kaolin powder with water, kefir, milk or herbal decoction to a creamy consistency. When the mixture is prepared, it is applied to the roots and root part of the hair, and then left in this state for 15-20 minutes. After the time has passed, rinse off the mask with water and then wash your hair with shampoo.

A similar mask used for the body helps remove toxins, whiten the skin, tighten and cleanse it, reduce the severity of cellulite and rejuvenate. The mask acts as a delicate scrub that removes the upper keratinized layer of cells, leaving the skin smooth and soft.

How to take kaolin internally

The methods of application mentioned above are external. Now let's talk about how to properly use white clay as a food product. The most popular reason for the need to ingest white clay is food poisoning. As has been mentioned more than once, this mineral is a highly effective absorbent, and therefore quickly absorbs everything harmful and unnecessary, removing it from the body.

In the pharmacy you can find many medications of similar specificity, which contain kaolin. The use of such drugs must be carried out strictly in accordance with the attached instructions.

White clay is also effective in cases of discomfort or diseases in the gastrointestinal tract. These include:

Diarrhea.
Bloating.
Heartburn, etc.

If you did not purchase a ready-made medicinal product, but kaolin powder, then at home you can easily prepare clay water, which will help in solving the problems that have arisen. Most often, the classic proportion is used - one tablespoon of powder per glass clean water. Usually, a specialist is not recommended to consume more than one hundred grams of clay water per day. Moreover, this volume is not drunk at one time; it must be divided into at least three doses.

Can white clay cause harm to health?

It is not for nothing that we noted that the use of kaolin should not be uncontrolled - it is determined either by the instructions for a specific medicinal product, or a specialist who recommends the use of such a remedy.

The fact is that abuse of even such a useful mineral can lead to the following unpleasant consequences:

Violation of water-salt balance in the body.
Intestinal obstruction.
Allergic reaction. By the way, about this reaction. It can occur both internally and external ways applications. If you are planning to make a clay mask, then do a sensitivity test before applying it to your face, body or hair. Apply a drop of product to the back of your hand. If within 20-30 minutes there are no discomfort does not arise, you can safely apply the mask.

In case of food use of white clay, start by taking a small volume of clay water. If you feel well after a while, the drug is most likely right for you.

Remember that no matter how wonderful the product you choose is, you should use it wisely. Otherwise, instead of the expected benefit, you may cause damage to your health, which is sometimes very difficult to compensate for.

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