Activated charcoal is a fine, black powder that is odorless, tasteless, and nontoxic. It works by trapping toxins and chemicals in its millions of tiny pores. The porous surface of this charcoal has a negative electric charge that causes positive charged toxins and gas to bond with it.
While I have used activated charcoal in my family, I’m NOT a doctor. Always consult YOUR doctor before trying anything new.
Activated Charcoal For Stomach Bugs
As soon as signs of a stomach bug show up or someone near you gets it, take *this post contains affiliate links 2 capsules with a full glass of water as often as every 2 hours, up to 16 capsules in a 24 hour period. (see specific directions on the package you purchase)
When using activated charcoal internally, it is crucial to make sure to stay extra hydrated. You’ll need the extra water for the charcoal to flush out the toxins, and to avoid constipation.
Activated charcoal comes in both bags and capsules. Because I have a great worry of a bag of charcoal somehow finding it’s way all over my house, I choose the capsules.
Pro Tip: Be aware that if you are on medications, the activated charcoal can intercept the medication. Consult your doctor! Also, activated charcoal will bind to your supplements.
Children
While kids 4 and up can use 1 capsule of charcoal in a cup of purple grape juice to help prevent stomach viruses from taking their toll, always consult your doctor FIRST.
Overdose Or Poisoning
First, call poison control, the local emergency room, or doctor’s office and follow their directions. But if you are in a situation where you can’t make that call the dosage for acute poisoning is as follows
Gas And Bloating
Activated charcoal works to bind the gas-causing byproducts in foods that cause discomfort. Take 500 milligrams one hour prior to a typical gas-producing meal, with a full glass of water. Follow your meal with another glass of of water immediately to help get the charcoal into your system, where it can bind with gas-producing elements.
Relieve Bites And Bee Stings
Being such a great all-around detoxifier, applying a paste of activated charcoal and a bit of water and a drop of both Lavender and Copaiba essential oils to a bug bite or bee sting may offer relief. Reapply as needed. Here’s how to order Young Living Essential Oils.
Pro tip: Looking for another way to reap the benefits of activated charcoal? Check our SUPER EASY DIY soap recipes for Lavender Charcoal soap!
How does your family fight off stomach viruses?
** I am NOT a doctor, NOR do I play one on the internet. I am simply sharing what has worked for my family. YOU need to check with your doctor about using activated charcoal before giving it to your family.