It is important to handle clays with inert utensils and containers, glass, wood, and not with metal or plastic tools.
The latter could alter the characteristics of our beloved clays, whose properties lie in their ability to exchange positive and negative charges.
In other words, under no circumstances should you reuse a clay that has already been used, as it will be loaded with toxins and impurities...
Let's talk about heating: if you want to heat the clay, use a water bath or, if you're lucky, the sun.
You can also heat the water itself before mixing it with the clays.
In any case, forget the microwave!
Unlike essential oils, clays are used on the mucous membranes.
It is still a matter of dosage and application, so be careful!
Internal use of clay is strongly contraindicated in people prone to constipation.
It is important to drink plenty of water when using clay.
It is also contraindicated in people with hernia, high blood pressure, history of bowel obstruction or nausea.
Pregnant or breast-feeding women should not use clay, and the dose for young children is generally appropriate.
Although clay is a natural product, it should not be overdosed and you should always follow the recommended dosages and times of use.
If you are taking medication internally at the same time, the clay may counteract the effect of the medication...
A small warning then about daily medication such as antihistamines, antipyretics, contraceptives, antihypertensives...
Clays are very absorbent, so it is best to take them away from medicines.
In any case, do not hesitate to consult your doctor or naturopath for further information.
To prolong the shelf life of powdered or crushed clay, use an airtight container in a ventilated, dry room at room temperature.
Moisture is the enemy of clay!
As for the clay paste, it can dry out more easily.
It is better to make it on the spot.
It is important to note that natural clays are not sterile compounds, unlike, for example, clay-based pharmaceuticals.
In fact, natural clays have been shown to contain bacterial flora.
But don't worry, this is not pathogenic and is present in controlled quantities.
As long as the flora does not exceed the food standard limit, the clays are still safe to eat, if I may say so!
You will understand that the fresh foods you eat, such as cheese, are not free of bacterial flora either...
As for the external route, don't worry, the bacteria in the clay will not migrate to your skin...
On the contrary, the membranes of the bacteria are negatively charged, while the clays are positively charged: the clays attract the bacteria and thus fix them!
Follow the dosage and application instructions for each clay.
Each clay has specific instructions for use.
Respect the break time for each skin application.
The clay will lose its effectiveness anyway, and if it dries out it may also irritate your skin.
Before taking it orally, respect the recommended dosage and recovery time.
In fact, the components of the clay act in minimal doses, so it is pointless to take large amounts of clay with the risk of observing undesirable effects.
Oral intake should not be combined with a high-fat diet, as clays can form a compact mixture with fatty substances.