Activated carbon, also known as activated charcoal, is a substance that has gained popularity in recent years due to its wide range of applications, both in industry and in the health field. This black powder, which is obtained from materials such as coconut shell, wood, and other plant products subjected to high temperatures, has the ability to adsorb toxins and chemicals.
What is activated carbon and how does it work?
Activated carbon is a form of carbon that has been treated to have an extremely porous surface. This porosity increases its ability to adsorb (bind molecules to its surface) large amounts of substances, particularly toxins, chemicals, and gases. Activation is done through physical or chemical processes, which maximizes its adsorption capacity.
The mechanism behind activated carbon is what is known as adsorption, a process by which molecules of a gas or liquid adhere to a solid surface. In the case of activated carbon, its microporous structure allows toxins and contaminants to adhere to it, effectively removing them from the medium they are in, be it air, water, or the human digestive tract.
Adsorption vs. Absorption
The term adsorption is often confused with absorption. However, adsorption involves the attraction of particles to the surface of a material, while absorption refers to the penetration of particles into the interior of the material. Activated carbon works exclusively through adsorption, meaning that toxins stick to its surface and are not absorbed into the interior of the carbon.
Benefits of activated charcoal on health
Activated charcoal has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat a variety of conditions. Today, it remains an essential component in health care due to its detoxifying properties. Below, we discuss some of the key benefits that activated charcoal offers to human health.
1. Treatment of poisoning and overdose
One of the most well-known uses of activated charcoal is as an emergency treatment for poisoning and drug overdoses. In many hospitals, activated charcoal is administered in emergency departments to quickly adsorb toxic substances before they can be absorbed by the body.
Activated charcoal is especially effective when administered soon after a toxic substance has been ingested. It works by binding to the toxin in the stomach and intestine, preventing its absorption and facilitating its elimination through the digestive system.
2. Reduction of intestinal gases
Another benefit of activated charcoal is its ability to reduce gas and bloating. Research has shown that activated charcoal can help adsorb gas-causing molecules in the gut, reducing feelings of discomfort and flatulence.
Activated charcoal is thought to adsorb bacteria and gas-producing compounds in the intestine, helping to reduce symptoms of bloating and dyspepsia.
3. Teeth whitening
The use of activated charcoal as a natural method for teeth whitening has gained popularity in recent years. Many dental care products, such as toothpastes and powders, now contain activated charcoal. This compound helps to remove surface stains on teeth by adsorbing the particles that cause them.
Additionally, activated charcoal has antibacterial properties, which can help improve oral health by reducing the amount of bacteria in the mouth responsible for problems such as halitosis (bad breath) and tooth decay.
4. Promoting kidney health
Activated charcoal has also been shown to have benefits for kidney health. People with chronic kidney disease may have elevated levels of toxins in their blood, due to the kidneys' decreased ability to filter waste substances.
Activated charcoal can adsorb these toxins, helping to reduce the toxic load on the body and supporting kidney function. Although it does not replace traditional medical treatments, activated charcoal can be a useful adjunct in some cases of kidney failure.
5. Treatment of bites and stings
In topical applications, activated charcoal can be useful in treating insect bites, snake bites, and other wounds. When applied to the skin, activated charcoal can adsorb poisons and toxins, reducing the inflammation and pain associated with these injuries.
This property has led to the creation of bandages and dressings containing activated carbon, which are used to treat wounds and speed healing.
Using activated charcoal in beauty and wellness
Beyond its medical applications, activated charcoal has found its place in the beauty and wellness industry. Many personal care products and cosmetics take advantage of its adsorption properties to improve skin and hair health.
1. Face masks
Activated charcoal face masks are extremely popular due to their ability to purify the skin. Activated charcoal acts as a magnet for impurities, absorbing excess oil, dirt, and toxins from the face. This can help reduce the appearance of blackheads, whiteheads, and other skin problems related to excess sebum.
Additionally, activated charcoal has anti-inflammatory properties, making it useful for soothing irritated skin and reducing inflammation caused by acne.
2. Body scrubs
Body scrubs containing activated charcoal help remove dead skin cells, leaving your skin soft and rejuvenated. Activated charcoal can also help fight bacteria that cause body acne, especially in areas like the back and shoulders where acne is common.
3. Shampoos and hair treatments
Activated charcoal is also used in hair products due to its ability to detoxify the scalp. By removing impurities and product residue, activated charcoal leaves hair cleaner and shinier. It can also be beneficial for people with dandruff or scalp irritation issues.
Water and air purification
One of the most well-known industrial uses of activated carbon is in water and air purification. Activated carbon filters are used in a wide variety of applications due to their ability to adsorb contaminants and chemicals, providing cleaner water and air.
1. Water filters
Activated carbon is a key component in many water filtration systems. These filters remove chlorine, sediment, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and other impurities, improving the quality of your drinking water.
Filtration systems that use activated carbon are effective at removing bad taste and odor from water, making them ideal for homes and offices. They are also an environmentally friendly and economical option to ensure access to clean, safe water.
2. Air filters
Air filters containing activated carbon are used in air purifiers to remove odors, smoke, and pollutants from the air. Activated carbon is particularly effective at removing toxic chemicals and gases from the air, providing a cleaner, healthier environment.
This type of filtration is especially useful in urban environments, where air pollution can affect respiratory health. Activated carbon filters are used in ventilation systems, air purifiers, and other devices to improve indoor air quality.
Side effects and precautions
Despite its many benefits, activated charcoal is not without side effects and contraindications. Excessive use of activated charcoal can interfere with the absorption of nutrients and medications. For this reason, it is important to follow the instructions of a health professional before using it as a treatment.
Activated charcoal may cause constipation or stomach upset if consumed in large quantities, and should not be used as a substitute for conventional medical treatments without proper supervision.