Since ancient times, cosmetic clay has had the status of an excellent and effective product in caring for the skin of the face and body. Cleopatra herself regularly used it to maintain youthful and beautiful skin.
The beneficial effects of mineral clay were widely used not only in cosmetology, but its properties were also valued in medicine. Pharaonic doctors used it as an excellent remedy with anti-inflammatory and antiseptic effects. In addition, it was included in the composition during mummification. Ancient healers used it to make various kinds rubbing, medicinal ointments and pasta. Cosmetic clay was also used for internal use if it was necessary to achieve an absorbent effect. With its help, they got rid of bacteria and removed toxins from the body. Natural mineral clay was also used for serious poisoning, muscle pain, epidemics.
Modern use in medicine and cosmetology.
Cosmetic clay is widely used in the field of cosmetology; it is usually included in various face masks that have a cleansing and drying effect. Clay has a wonderful property; it, like a sponge, absorbs excess secretions of the sebaceous and sweat glands. In addition to its cleansing properties, it relieves inflammation and redness, and also relieves skin from peeling. Clay-based masks are especially effective for oily, combination and dry skin. It should also be noted that clay has the ability to enhance the bactericidal properties of certain substances, which is why clay is included in anti-inflammatory ointments and masks.
Types of cosmetic clays.
In general, there are several types of clay in nature, and all of them not only differ in color (due to different mineral composition, depending on the place of origin), but also have different properties, which is why they are used in cosmetology and medicine to solve different problems. Clay can be white, blue, green, red, yellow, grey, black and blue. You can buy natural cosmetic clay at almost any pharmacy or cosmetics store.
It should be remembered that when using cosmetic clays, mixing their types or diluting them with the addition of other components is necessary only in clay dishes, but not in iron ones. Since cosmetic clay loves light, it is important to expose it to the sun.
White clay (Anapskaya).
The most commonly used of all types of cosmetic clay is white or kaolin; it is added to masks, ointments, and anti-diarrhea remedies. Often used to treat skin diseases, gynecological diseases, and diseases of the musculoskeletal system. White clay also perfectly removes toxins.
This type has the most effective effect on oily (absorbs excess secretions of the sebaceous glands), mixed and problematic facial skin, perfectly cleansing it, drying out pimples (acne) and inflammation, narrowing pores, and also providing a lifting effect. But it is contraindicated for use in the presence of rosacea. It should be noted that this type of cosmetic clay has the property of whitening the skin. She also helps women correct the oval of their face and make it more even. Due to its antiseptic properties, white clay is added to various facial care products with bactericidal and anti-inflammatory effects. Systematic use of white clay increases the elasticity of the skin, makes it velvety, and improves complexion.
The use of this type of clay is also beneficial for hair. Masks based on it make hair thicker, more manageable and eliminate dandruff. The effect will be noticeable after a week or two of use.
Blue clay (Cambrian, Valdai).
It contains a huge amount of salts and microelements that are necessary for the beauty and youth of our skin. Thanks to its stimulating effect, blue cosmetic clay provides a pronounced rejuvenating effect; it is especially effective for oily skin. Regular use of blue clay is a preventive measure acne, thanks to its disinfectant and astringent effect, dries out minor inflammations and pimples, and also effectively smoothes out facial wrinkles.
In addition to the cleansing effect, this type of cosmetic clay nourishes the skin deep level, supplying skin cells with the necessary substances and energy of natural compounds, stimulating regeneration processes in the tissues of the epidermis, which helps accelerate the healing process of wounds and damage to the skin. Cosmetics based on blue clay activate blood circulation and accelerate metabolic processes in skin cells, restoring firmness, elasticity and a healthy appearance to the skin. It is also worth noting that this clay has a slight lightening effect on freckles and age spots.
The use of blue clay for hair, due to the presence of silicon in its composition, activates hair growth and also helps eliminate dandruff.
Masks based on it are also effective for use on the legs in order to improve blood microcirculation, reduce swelling and heaviness in the legs. In addition, such products can help cope with cellulite, sweating, and eliminate bad smell, and also prevent fungal and bacterial diseases.
Green clay.
The green color of this type of clay is due to the content of iron oxide in it. Most often used in cosmetology, it is added to masks, wraps and compresses. The clay composition, rich in microelements, promotes recovery water balance skin, and also provides excellent absorbent properties. The use of green clay cleanses and softens the skin, eliminates inflammation and irritation, smoothes wrinkles, and also has a drying effect. It is often recommended to improve capillary blood circulation, as well as general skin rejuvenation. Masks based on it perfectly cleanse pores and get rid of oily shine. This type of clay can be combined with other types.
It should also be noted that this clay is recommended for use in baths to relieve stress, tension, fatigue and irritation. This recommendation is due to the property of green clay to remove negative energy accumulated during the day.
Red clay.
The color is due to the presence of copper and iron oxide in the composition. This type of cosmetic clay is recommended for the care of dry, dehydrated, and sensitive skin prone to allergic reactions. Products based on red clay, in particular masks, improve blood supply processes in the tissues of the epidermis, help soften and moisturize the skin, perfectly exfoliate the dead layer of cells, eliminate itching, irritation and redness on the face. In addition, they perfectly eliminate signs of flaking skin. Also, this type of clay can help in caring for aging skin, as it improves oxygen saturation of tissues. It is often prescribed for a lack of iron in the body. Red clay is often combined with white clay.
Red clay is also effective in hair care; products based on it help nourish hair follicles, strengthen weak and brittle hair, and also eliminate oily seborrhea.
Pink clay.
Pink cosmetic clay is recommended for the care of any skin type. It is obtained by mixing red clay and kaolin, which allows it to have the effect inherent in both types of clay. Its use promotes skin rejuvenation, smoothing wrinkles and tightening the facial contour. The use of masks based on it cleanses, nourishes and softens the skin, restoring elasticity and having a refreshing and restorative effect. Baths based on pink clay promote deep hydration of the skin, have a tonic effect, improving metabolic processes in tissues.
Yellow clay.
This type of clay contains a huge amount of iron and potassium, which helps improve oxygen supply to tissues, and also determines its ability to remove toxins in cases of various inflammatory processes. Masks based on yellow clay have a tonic effect, improving complexion. It is recommended for use in the care of oily, combination, aging and dull skin.
Thanks to its rare chemical composition, experts recommend it for the correction of various cosmetic blemishes, as well as as a prophylactic against many skin diseases. Yellow clay has the ability to absorb waste products of the body, in addition, it has a detrimental effect on pathogenic bacteria. Baths based on it perfectly relieve fatigue, help accelerate metabolic processes in tissues, improving appearance skin.
Gray clay.
This type of cosmetic clay is mined from the sea at great depth. Its use gives a pronounced moisturizing and toning effect. In most cases, it is recommended for the care of problematic, dry and dehydrated skin. Gray clay promotes deep detoxification of the skin and the body as a whole.
Gray clay-based masks effectively cleanse and deeply nourish the skin, tighten pores due to their antiseptic properties, have a healing effect on acne and boils, and also have a pronounced rejuvenating effect.
The use of clay in hair products helps strengthen hair, prevent brittleness and hair loss, and also prevents peeling of the skin.
Gray clay baths perfectly soften rough skin of the hands and feet, heal small cracks and damaged skin.
Black clay (Dead Sea).
This type of clay contains iron, strontium, magnesium, quartz and calcium. Products based on it perfectly cleanse the skin of impurities and toxins and tighten pores. Most suitable for the care of combination and oily skin, as well as for normal skin types.
Mud therapy using black clay helps improve blood and lymph circulation, as well as metabolic processes. In addition, procedures based on it stimulate tissue respiration, regeneration processes, and promote the resorption of inflammation processes. Masks based on black clay serve as an excellent means of moisturizing and toning the skin.
Wraps with black clay give an excellent effect of reducing volumes, as they help burn fat deposits.
Blue clay.
Masks based on blue clay have a cleansing, whitening and softening effect, help tighten pores, and also have a pronounced rejuvenating effect. Baths using this type of clay have an antiseptic effect and accelerate the regeneration processes of skin cells.
In addition, it has a stimulating effect on metabolic processes in cells, increasing blood circulation and providing an anti-stress effect. Blue clay is recommended for use on any skin.
Clay treatment is similar to mud therapy in terms of its effect on the body. Just like mud, healing clay has beneficial influence on the body. The use of clay in medicine and modern cosmetology is quite widespread; this method thermal effects has very few contraindications and is recommended for the treatment of skin diseases such as seborrhea, psoriasis, etc.
What is clay and clay therapy
It’s worth starting the story about the medicinal properties of clay and its use by explaining what clay and clay therapy are in medicine.
Clay (Diatomaceus Earth, Argilla) is a plastic sedimentary rock. Clays are a product of chemical destruction rocks and differ in quantitative composition and color, the ability to form a dough-like, easily stirred mass, which can be given any shape. With significant liquefaction, the clay loses its plasticity and spreads. The main part of the clay is colloidal hydrate of silica and alumina, which determines its basic physical properties, including poor heat capacity and thermal conductivity.
Cosmetic clay- these are mineral substances of natural origin, with significant plasticity, used for cosmetic procedures. Rich in biologically active substances (magnesium, barium, beryllium, gallium, copper, cobalt, molybdenum, etc.).
Clay treatment is a thermal treatment method based on the use of heated healing clay.
The healing properties of clay are used as one of the methods of natural healing of the body. Clays are used to treat more than 30 diseases and about 70 in combination with medicinal plants, vegetables and fruits.
In medicine, only purified, bleached and finely dispersed cosmetic clay is used. White or Chinese clay (kaolin), dispersion, etc. are often used. They are characterized by high hygroscopicity, plasticity, as well as stimulating and antiseptic effectiveness; they are used in cosmetic masks, powder, and hygienic talc.
What types of clays are there, their properties and indications for use
There are many various types clays differing in density, plasticity, color, mineral and organic composition. What types of clays are there and how are they used?
Various categories of clays - liquid, plastic, fatty, low-plasticity - have completely various applications. There are also refractory clays, including earthenware and kaolin, and fusible clays. The color of clay depends on its mineral composition (presence of iron, copper). There are white, green, blue, pink and red clays. When deciding which clay to choose, keep in mind that white and green clays are most often used in cosmetology.
The main minerals included in cosmetic clays are quartz, mica, etc.
Look at the photo: The composition of medicinal clays depends on their place of origin. In Bulgaria, in the Rhodope Mountains, blue clay is mined. The population of Crimea and Transcaucasia uses local clays “kil”, “gilyabi”, “gumbrin”. In the north-west of Russia, the so-called Glukhovets kaolin and Pulkovo clay are mined. In the Urals, the Kamyshlovskoe clay deposit of greenish-gray color is known.
Moroccan clay mined in the mountains adjacent to the Sahara. It is red-brown in color, has healing properties and is effective for burns, and its deposits belong to very rich sheikhs.
Green clay colored with iron oxide. Also contains magnesium, calcium, potash, manganese, phosphorus, zinc, aluminum, copper, cobalt, molybdenum. This type of healing clay is used in cosmetics mainly for oily skin and hair - against dandruff, pH = 7. Contains about 50% silicon dioxide, 13% aluminum and 15% other minerals: silver, copper, gold, heavy metals.
Silicon has a positive effect on the epidermis, gives flexibility to blood vessels, stimulates hair growth, lipid metabolism, the formation of collagen and bone tissue. Aluminum has drying and astringent properties.
Red clay has its color due to a combination of iron oxide and copper. It is a less good adsorbent than green clay. Used for iron deficiency in the body. It is not very suitable as a base for masks, as it gives the skin a reddish tint.
Pink clay contains red and white clay in varying proportions. It contains microelements and has disinfecting and smoothing effects on the skin. Since pink clay is very soft, it is recommended for delicate care of the epidermis. Used as a smoothing and astringent mask and in shampoos for normal hair.
Look at what the types of clay look like in the photo - the external differences are mainly in its color and structure:
The healing properties of white and blue clay
White clay (kaolin, Chinese clay) is a traditional raw material component in the manufacture of cosmetics. Purity, whiteness, non-abrasive nature and harmlessness make this mineral a valuable ingredient in cosmetology. In pharmacy it is used in the form of powders, ointments, pastes, as well as for diaper rash and burns, and is part of cleansing masks. An indication for the use of clay may be acne. In addition, clay in medicinal purposes:
- cleanses the epidermis;
- has an antiseptic and regenerating surface effect;
- stimulates the body's defenses, having a special effect on the epidermis exposed to environmental pollution;
- saturates the epidermis with minerals;
- prevents the spread of germs due to its ability to absorb toxins and contaminants;
- has enveloping and adsorbing properties;
- facilitates cellular regeneration, stimulating exchange.
It has a structure similar to green clay, but differs from it in the presence of trace elements. It has a pH = 5 and can therefore be used even for sensitive skin.
The healing properties of white clay are due to a high percentage of aluminum and silicon with an admixture of magnesium and calcium silicates. Used in masks, milk and shampoos for dry hair and in children's cosmetics.
Medicinal blue clay is mined in the Rhodope Mountains (Bulgaria). It is a powdery mass with pH = 7.3, contains a large amount of copper and chromium, salts, which give it a bluish tint. Recommended in its pure form (when mixed with water) for use as masks for hair, skin, face and body. When deciding which cosmetic clay to choose, keep in mind that blue clay softens and tones the skin, clears acne, whitens, smoothes wrinkles, has a beneficial effect on oily hair, and has anti-cellulite, antibacterial and anti-stress effects. Good effect has an effect on dehydrated, sluggish, atopic skin.
IN for cosmetic purposes Kaolin is most often used.
Clay is everywhere, it is very easy to recognize, it is thin and dense. It can be found in places where the earth cracks: in quarries, near brick factories. Even in the garden, sometimes it is enough to dig one meter deep into the ground to find good clay. For cosmetic purposes and internal use, clay should only be purchased at a pharmacy. There it is of the required quality and undergoes radiation control. In addition, pharmacists will tell you in detail about the types of clay, its properties and uses, and also advise which clay is suitable for your skin.
What kind of medicinal clay and how to prepare it
Knowing which clay is medicinal, you need to decide for what purpose it can be used. For external use, the most preferred one, which has the best healing properties, is clay suitable for modeling. It is used in the production of bricks and ceramic products. The purer it is, the stronger the effect.
For external use, in cases of urgent treatment, and also if it is impossible to immediately obtain the necessary clay, you can use soil similar to it (loam). The loam must be clean. But it is still more advisable to use clay, since it has a stronger healing effect. Any clay mined in an ecologically unfavorable area must be tested for radioactivity.
The easiest way to prepare clay is as follows. Take good clay and lay it out to dry in the sun. If the clay is not dried enough, it will not dissolve easily in water. If there is not enough sun, then you should place the clay near the stove, heater or any source of heat or light.
Before using clay, clean it of various particles, pebbles, roots and other foreign matter. Pour the clay into a basin or other enameled, wooden or fired clay vessel. Dishes with chipped enamel will not work.
Fill the clay with fresh clean water so that it is completely covered. Let it sit for several hours so that the clay absorbs moisture, stir, and crush hard lumps with your hands or a wooden spatula. You cannot use a metal tool - it can adversely affect the prepared mass. It should be homogeneous in composition, without lumps, and should resemble mastic prepared by craftsmen for modeling.
This mass is ready for use. If necessary, slightly dilute the solution with water so that the mass is at the desired consistency, always ready for use. This way it can be stored indefinitely.
The effect of clay on the skin and the body as a whole
The effect of clay on the body consists mainly of three components: thermal; mechanical; chemical.
A clay mass of the required temperature upon contact with the skin heats it, followed by a significant expansion of peripheral vessels. Hyperemia has an analgesic effect, promotes the resorption of inflammatory elements, enhances tissue nutrition and metabolism, and also has an antispasmodic effect. Sweating, often profusely, has great importance for a number of diseases. Simultaneously with sweat, certain metabolic products are released from the body, such as uric acid, as well as various kinds of toxins. Thus, the clay, heated to a fairly high temperature, - a strong thermal procedure. The thermal reaction during clay therapy is based on the activation of body cells, which is accompanied by stimulation of biochemical processes.
Mechanical action manifests itself in the pressure of a mass of clay on the skin, perceived by the body as an irritant, to the action of which, depending on its quality, quantity and strength, the body responds with an active reaction, accompanied by a number of changes in its functions.
Chemical action clay on the skin is due to the chemical composition of the clay, containing salts of various elements, oxides of iron, calcium, magnesium, silicon, as well as sulfuric anhydride, carbon dioxide and organic matter, which to a certain extent produce an irritating effect on the skin.
Clay for medicinal purposes and contraindications to clay therapy
In terms of its effect on the body, clay treatment is close to mud therapy. Therefore, there are general contraindications to clay and mud therapy: diseases of the cardiovascular system, thyroid gland, tuberculosis.
Indications for the use of clays for therapeutic purposes are inflammatory or traumatic processes of a chronic nature: poorly healing fractures, bruises, inflammatory diseases skin.
In cosmetology, medicinal clays are widely used in wraps for the prevention and treatment of cellulite, seborrhea, hair loss, psoriasis, in masks and shampoos.
Clay treatment: lotions, compresses and baths with clay water at home
Procedures with clay include:
- clay lotions;
- clay compresses (wraps or dressings);
- baths with clay (clay water).
In order to prepare lotions, you need to take linen, cotton or woolen fabric, or any linen or napkin. Fold it in half, four or more - to the desired thickness, place the fabric on the table or flat surface. Use a wooden spatula to remove the mixture from the container and spread it on a napkin. The clay layer should be wider than sore spot, 2-3 cm thick.
Wipe the sore spot with a wet cloth. If it is an ulcer, wash it with fresh warm water. Apply the prepared lotion directly to the sore spot and make sure that it fits tightly. Wrap the lotion with a bandage so that it does not move and is constantly in contact with it. Secure the bandage and cover everything with woolen cloth. Do not tighten the bandage too tightly to avoid circulatory problems.
Typically, a clay lotion should be left on the sore spot for 2-3 hours. If it becomes dry and hot, it should be replaced with a new one.
To remove the lotion, you must first remove the outer woolen material, then unbandage the bandage and remove the clay in one motion, being careful not to leave pieces of it on the sore spot. Rinse the affected area with warm water. Do not reuse used clay.
The number of procedures depends on the specific case and the patient’s condition. As a rule, 2-3 lotions a day are enough, but you can use more: one after another, day and night. After complete recovery, you need to continue the procedure for some more time.
You should never put lotions on your chest and stomach during or immediately after meals, but only after 1-1.5 hours. Can be applied to other parts of the body at any time. In this case, you can put 2 or 3 lotions simultaneously on different parts of the body.
When it is difficult to apply a lotion (for example, on the eyes, ears, etc.), you can make wraps (compresses). To do this, you need to soak the cloth in a semi-liquid clay mass so that it is thoroughly saturated, apply the cloth to the painful part of the body and cover it with a woolen blanket. The clay-impregnated canvas must be changed frequently. Such procedures are used and, if necessary, expose a large surface of the skin to clay.
In the treatment of skin diseases, partial (incomplete) and full baths in clay water play an important role - they are very useful. To take a clay bath at home, soak for about 20 minutes. top part hands, soles of feet or arms completely in a vessel filled with a very liquid clay solution. This solution can be used 2 or 3 times.
For pain in the arms and legs after frostbite, it is better to use baths for the extremities. For this method of treatment with clay water, you can use a basin with a clay solution that has previously been left in the sun.
Full baths are taken outside. To do this, you need to make a fairly large round hole in the ground, fill it with water and good clay. Mix the clay and water well to form a light liquid mass.
This can only be done outdoors in the warm season. In cool weather, baths are made in warm water, without renewing the clay, 6-7 times (2 times a week).
After the bath, you should go to bed, cover yourself and drink a hot infusion of herbs.
Bath duration- from 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the specific case and the patient’s tolerance of the procedure.
What diseases does clay treat: psoriasis, seborrhea, baldness?
What diseases does clay treat and how to use it for burns?
Clays can be used for medicinal purposes for the following skin diseases:
Psoriasis. Clay should be mixed with coarse salt(in a 1:1 ratio) and apply the resulting mixture to the affected areas of the skin for 1-2 hours once a day. It is better to use clay diluted with vinegar in a ratio of 1:3.
Seborrhea (oily skin). For oily hair, wash your hair with clay water; for oily facial skin, you need to make a mask.
Baldness. Rub your head 3 times a day with a mixture of crushed garlic, onion juice and clay water.
Burns. Place clay lotions up to 3-4 cm thick on gauze and apply to the burn surface. Change the cakes every 2 hours until epithelialization. After this, apply 3-4 compresses a day to the burn area and keep for 2 hours.
Clay can be used to remove radionuclides from the body: as a strong adsorbent, it actively absorbs a variety of toxic substances, including radioactive ones.
Clay treatment of skin diseases and cosmetic imperfections
The widespread use of clay for skin diseases and to get rid of cosmetic imperfections has been practiced since ancient times. Various types of creams were made from it, compresses were made on the face, hands and other parts of the body. And of course, treatment of skin diseases with clay was carried out using all kinds of cleansing and toning baths.
Of particular interest is the question of correct use clay There are commercially available clays that are suggested to be used by mixing the powder and water immediately before use, and then applying the resulting mixture to the skin or hair. At the same time, clay-based masks are also available on the market, where one or another type of clay is included in the emulsion base in an amount of 10-40 percent. The choice of clay type depends on the problem being solved, and also largely on the condition of the skin.
Clay is a unique substance made of quartz, mica, aluminum, silicon oxides, iron, potassium, magnesium, mineral salts, micro- and macroelements. It has an extensive list of features that were known back in ancient world. Clay has been used to treat various ailments for centuries, and now this tradition has not been forgotten. From our article you will learn how clay is useful and how it can be used to treat bruises, inflammation, and diseases of internal organs.
Useful properties of clay
The list of properties that clay has is almost endless. The first healing property of clay is that it contains many salts and elements (calcium, silicon, magnesium, phosphate, potassium, iron, nitrogen). Silicon is needed to maintain immune system, prevention of atherosclerosis and heart attacks. Silicon helps calcium to be absorbed faster, which has positive influence on hair, nails and skin.
Contains radium. It absorbs toxins and heavy metals and is used as the main component for the manufacture of drugs for oncology therapy. This natural component is a good absorbent, it removes radionuclides and heavy metals.
The main properties of clay are its cleansing and antibacterial effect. Normalizes metabolism, removes excess acids and toxins and has a positive effect on activating blood circulation.
As you can see, healing properties clays are very diverse. Used for the treatment of epilepsy, blood vessels, diabetes, blood diseases, atherosclerosis, arthrosis, arthrosis, hemorrhoids, cardiovascular system, treatment of spinal diseases, inflammation of the lymph nodes.
Types of clay
There are several varieties of this natural component. The benefits of clay directly depend on its color, which varies depending on the predominant salts in the composition:
- Blue clay is the most popular and contains the most cobalt and cadmium. The benefits of such clay for humans include anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects. Blue clay is widely used to treat headaches, burns, and diseases respiratory system and even colds, it also has a rejuvenating effect by cleansing and saturating the skin with oxygen;
- Red contains iron and potassium, which determines its color. The properties and use of red clay is to get rid of anemia and anemia. She treats joints, muscles and spine;
- Green clay is rich in copper and ferrous iron. The beneficial properties of green clay have a particularly good effect on the condition of the skin and hair, and also have a positive effect on the functioning of the venous system, helping to get rid of varicose veins and swelling of the legs;
- White contains zinc. It is a powerful antioxidant, the main benefit of white clay is its rejuvenating effect; in cosmetology, treatment with white clay for hair, acne and cleansing is popular surface layers epidermis;
- Yellow clay is rich in potassium. Used to treat radiculitis and arthritis. The beneficial property of yellow clay is a calming effect, effective against overwork and stress;
- Gray is used mainly to rejuvenate and moisturize dehydrated skin.
Harm of clay
Despite the beneficial and healing properties of clay in the treatment of many ailments, there are also limitations in its use. Contraindicated in diseases of the kidneys, liver, osteoporosis, febrile conditions, bronchial asthma and open tuberculosis. You should consult your doctor if you have acute cardiovascular failure.
Clay may be harmful if you are allergic to this natural component. Do not overdose, as this may contribute to the removal of vitamins.
Preparation of medicinal clay
When used externally, clay can be used in different ways. We will tell you the main ways to prepare medicinal clay depending on the disease.
If you use it to draw out toxins or strengthen the body's strength, you need to make lotions from clay. Mix a teaspoon of powdered clay with 200 ml of boiled and filtered water. Mix with a wooden or glass spatula so that you get a uniform consistency in viscosity reminiscent of sour cream, leave for several hours under the influence of the sun in the fresh air. Then apply the mixture to the skin (the thickness should be several centimeters), secure with a bandage and leave for 1.5-3 hours. Do 2-3 lotions a day.
Clay can cure insomnia and headaches. Mix it with yogurt 1:1, make a compress on the forehead and hold for 15-20 minutes.
Clay for runny nose and sinusitis: mix it with water in a 1:1 ratio, mix until thick and heat to 40ºC. Apply a hot compress to both the sinus and sinus areas 4 times a day. 20 minutes is enough. You can do the same for treating otitis media with clay, just apply it behind the ear 3-4 times a day.
Clay for internal use
Restoration of various internal organs, diarrhea, stomach ulcers, urolithiasis disease and bloating respond well to clay treatment. It must be clean, without foreign impurities. The maximum single dose is 30 grams, the daily dose is 100 grams for an adult.
If you are treated with edible clay, do not use it on an empty stomach, dilute it with cool water so that it does not lose its benefits, and after using this natural component internally, you need to rest and lie down for 15-30 minutes and do not overeat. Please note that you need to drink the clay in small sips.
Clay treatment for constipation: drink 50 grams of clay mixed with 200-250 ml of cold water 3 times a day after meals.
If you want to cleanse your body, then drink a glass of water with a teaspoon of blue clay mixed in for 2 weeks.
Treatment of gastrointestinal diseases: it is recommended to drink water with clay 3 times a day before meals. First mix 0.5 teaspoon of blue or white clay with a glass of water, but gradually increase the amount to 2 teaspoons. The duration of treatment is 21 days, take a break for 10 days and continue again.
Clay treatment for bruises
Clay for bruises is very effective, as it will prevent the development of a hematoma.
Preparing a clay mixture to treat bruises: mix 45 grams of this natural component blue color, a spoonful of honey and a raw egg. First apply the resulting mixture onto a clean linen cloth, cover it with compression paper on top and secure the bandage with a bandage. Take it off when you feel warm. But do not rush to throw away the bandage, put it in the refrigerator and apply it again after a few minutes.
It is convenient to use wraps to treat bruises and sprains with clay. Soak the cloth in the clay mixture, apply it to the damaged area and cover with a woolen cloth. Remove the lotion after 2-3 hours.
Treatment of wounds and burns with clay
Clay is a unique natural component, as it literally pulls out all the bad things from our body. Treatment of wounds and burns with clay is an excellent replacement for many modern drugs, it will prevent germs and bacteria from multiplying and will clean even an open wound.
If you have a burn or wound, you need to make a clay lotion. It will take several lotions so that it can completely absorb all toxins and harmful substances.
First, treat the damaged area of the skin. wet wipe or warm water, then dilute the clay with cool water in a 1:1 ratio. Use only a wooden or glass spatula for mixing. Apply the resulting thick mixture to the wound or burn in layers of several centimeters, apply a bandage on top, but do not tighten it too tightly so as not to disrupt blood circulation.
Where to get healing clay
If you decide to use clay for medicinal purposes and not for cosmetic purposes, then pharmacy products will not suit you. You need to prepare this natural component yourself.
Cambrian blue oily clay is considered the best. The activity of deep clay is highly valued and can be taken from a quarry, near brick factories, or on the surface of the earth near lakes and rivers. Do not use the city one or the one located near industrial centers. Dig deeper and in nature; the purest clay is considered to be located over 15 meters underground. You should dig clay exclusively with a wooden shovel and store it in non-metallic containers.
Are you seriously thinking about undergoing treatment with clay? Then you need to stock up thoroughly. Prepare clay for treatment in the summer, make many small cakes from it. It needs to be warmed up in the sun, then its healing properties will become more pronounced. 1-2 days in the sun is enough for it to be filled with solar energy. After tanning, place the cakes in boxes or grind it into powder and sift through a sieve. Do not use metal to store it, as it degrades the properties of the clay; enameled, wooden or unfired clay vessels are ideal. Periodically expose them to the sun, then it will be stored for a long time.
How to check the quality of clay
If you find clay yourself, you need to check its quality before using it. Give her a simple check that can be done right on the spot.
Method one: take a small piece, dilute it with water and shake. If the clay is good, it will sink to the bottom quite slowly. Otherwise, this natural component is not suitable for treatment. The water should not separate into two layers, and the material good quality It will be a little oily and will settle into flakes.
Method two: make a small bagel by first moistening it with water. It will suit you if it has good plasticity, takes the desired shape and does not crumble. Then leave this donut in the sun; if stains appear on it, it begins to crack, then such material is not suitable for treatment and use for cosmetic purposes.
Method three: hang a ring, nut or any other weight on a thread and point it at a layer of clay. If the pendulum began to swing towards you, and then away from you, then this product is of excellent quality. If the weight swings left and right, then you should continue your search. This method helps determine the energetic strength of a natural component.
Using clay for cosmetic purposes
Facial masks and body baths with the addition of clay have a good effect. They can be used to prevent various inflammations and irritations on the skin, to improve the condition of the skin, as well as to treat acne and blackheads on the face.
Body wrap: Prepare a clay solution by mixing 3-4 tablespoons of clay powder with 1 liter warm water. Place a warm blanket, oilcloth or polyethylene on it and a sheet soaked in the solution. The person must lie down on it, and he is wrapped in a sheet, oilcloth and blanket. The duration of the procedure is 1.5-2 hours.
Clay baths: add 5-6 tablespoons of clay powder to 1 liter of warm water. Add the resulting solution to a bath of water at a temperature of 40-45°C. The bath should only be half filled with water. The duration of the procedure is 20 minutes. After taking such a bath, do not rinse your body immediately; it is better to wrap yourself warmly and lie quietly. This helps strengthen the body and rejuvenate the skin.
Clay face mask: mix 2-3 tablespoons of clay powder with water so that the consistency resembles sour cream. Add 2-3 drops to it olive oil, a little estuary juice and one yolk. If desired, you can add one teaspoon of honey. Apply the clay mask to your face and leave for 20 minutes. Afterwards, rinse with clean water and apply a nourishing face cream.
Mask for blackheads: mix 2-3 tablespoons of clay from the pharmacy with ¼ glass of vodka and the juice of half a lemon. Apply the mask to problem areas of the face (nose wings, forehead, chin) and leave for 10-12 minutes, then rinse with clean water.
Clay contains many useful substances, mineral and organic origin. Since ancient times, clay treatment at home has been used to heal many diseases and ailments.
Useful properties of clay
Most often it is used for external use. However, it is also possible to use it internally. For health improvement and treatment, it is best to purchase clay in pharmacies, because... clay must undergo special cleaning, bactericidal control and testing for the presence radioactive substances.
Clay is a natural healing material. It has a beneficial effect on the body's metabolic processes and increases the effectiveness of other methods of traditional treatment (for example, herbal treatment).
The main diseases for which a clay solution can help:
- Colds
- Otitis, sore throat, runny nose
- , osteochondrosis
- Arthrosis
- Vascular problems
- Diabetes
- Thrombophlebitis
- Injuries, damage
- Poisoning, gastrointestinal diseases, problems with the digestive system
- Polyps, adenoids
- Blood diseases
- Benign tumors
- "Women's" diseases
- Heel spur, varicose veins
- "Skin" diseases
Clay has the following properties:
- Cleansing property
- Anti-inflammatory
- Enveloping
- Stimulating
Clay is capable of removing heavy metals and radionuclides from the body, neutralizing poisons and absorbing purulent formations. Its composition is easily digestible human body. Clay contains mineral salts and microelements that are important for human life - magnesium, calcium, potassium, nitrogen, iron, silicon.
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Contraindications to the use of clay
Despite a number of beneficial properties, there are some contraindications when using clay can only worsen your health:
- It is not recommended for use by people who have kidney or liver problems.
- Cannot be used for open forms of tuberculosis, bronchial asthma.
- You should be careful in use if you have problems with the cardiovascular system.
- Hereditary predisposition and individual intolerance can provoke the appearance of allergies in the form of rashes and irritations.
- If the body is severely depleted, use may aggravate the patient's condition.
- Fever and malignant tumors are also contraindications for use.
Types of clay
White– contains zinc, which is an excellent antioxidant. Widely used in the preparation of anti-aging face masks. It is also effective for problems with hair loss, varicose veins, and rheumatism.
White clay is found in some toothpastes. In cosmetology, white clay is used to cleanse the skin before mud and algae wraps.
Red Anemia and anemia can be cured thanks to the iron contained in large quantities.
Yellow enriched with potassium and perfectly “pulls” toxins out of the body. Yellow clay can help with stress and emotional stress. Helps with overwork. Treats “joint” diseases.
Gray has moisturizing and softening properties. Has a beneficial effect on skin condition. Normalizes the functioning of the sebaceous glands and activates the regeneration process. Gray clay is used for heart rhythm problems.
Blue. Blue clay is considered the most useful. It improves blood circulation and metabolic processes. It has irritating and disinfecting properties. Blue clay contains radium, which is a powerful “weapon” against germs and viruses.
Blue has antiseptic properties, used for face masks and to solve hair problems. The use of blue clay allows you to remove toxins and excess liquid from the body. Also effective in the fight against cellulite.
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Preparing clay
If, instead of pharmaceutical clay, ordinary clay is used, then it is best to look for it in quarries or in suburban areas. Clay can be stored for a long time. Sunlight only enhances its beneficial properties.
Preparation of clay for medicinal purposes:
- When cooking you should use wooden spoon and the same capacity.
- Large particles should be crushed to a powder and foreign impurities removed.
- The clay must be sifted using a sieve.
- The clay should be dried in the sun, near a radiator or on a stove.
- When the clay has dried well, it needs to be diluted with water, maybe slightly salted.
- The composition of the clay should be uniform, without lumps.
Travinka’s grandmother, Valentina Travinka, an author of books on health, devoted an entire book to the topic of clay beaming. In the book, she talks in detail about the methods of preparing and using clay, describes the effective and healthy recipes to combat many ailments.
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The use of clay in folk medicine
How to use clay? There are several ways to use clay in home treatments.
Clay lotions
To prepare clay lotions at home, it is better to use natural materials (linen, cotton). Approximately 3 cm of clay is laid out on a flat surface of the canvas, and then transferred to the skin, pressing tightly to the body. Do not tie the bandage too tightly. It is recommended to insulate the top with woolen fabric.
If a burning sensation occurs, the bandage should be removed immediately. If three hours have not yet passed and the clay has dried, you can apply a new, fresh layer of clay.
Clay therapy can last several days; in case of serious illnesses, healing with clay can take several months.
Clay baths
Warm baths with the addition of a clay solution, they calm and relieve tension, cleanse the skin and have a beneficial effect. Good for frequent colds.
The water temperature can reach 37 degrees. You should take a bath for no more than 30 minutes. After a clay bath, it is recommended to drink a healthy herbal infusion.
Rubbing
To grind, clay should be mixed with vegetable oil and rubbed in with light massage movements. After rubbing, the sore areas should be wrapped well.
Clay for oral administration
Taking clay internally is acceptable and gives positive results.
It is prohibited to use it orally while taking other medications.
It can be mixed with water, juices, herbal teas. You can chew or swallow small whole pieces of clay.
Drinking water with clay for a week leads to an increase in red blood cells in the blood. Just 10 grams of clay daily improves the condition of the skin and hair, and solves the problem of brittle nails.
After three weeks of use, it is recommended to take a break for 10 days. You should increase the dosage slowly - first add a little to the water, gradually moving up to a full teaspoon of powder. The daily norm is no more than 100 grams. A single dose for an adult is no more than 30 grams.
Important Tips on the use of clay:
- Clay can only be used once. Reuse is not acceptable, because it has absorbed all the harmful substances and will no longer be beneficial.
- Clay lotions should be made only after 1.5 hours after eating.
- It is recommended to use a cool one, even if the patient is cold (it is better to wrap it up warm).
Clay treatment recipes
For the treatment of joints clay water is used, which should be rubbed on the sore area. For best result You can add 2-3 ground “cloves” of garlic to the clay water.
Instead of external use, you can take clay internally - 1 teaspoon before each meal. Excellent help with such ailments as osteochondrosis.
Varicose veins It can also be treated by rubbing with clay water. Salt baths before bedtime and, after the bath, applying clay cakes to the sore areas also help a lot.
To remove heel spurs and old calluses, it is recommended to make warm clay baths. For this, 1 tbsp. clay (preferably blue or light blue) should be filled with one liter of boiling water. Let the solution cool slightly and soak your feet in it. Keep for no more than 25 minutes, but not less than 20 minutes. After the bath, the remaining clay should be washed off and the feet should be covered with a warm towel.
Spinal hernia treated with red clay. To do this, you need to moisten the clay with water and form a ball out of it. The clay ball is then covered with gauze and heated to 36 degrees. After this, the ball is applied to the hernia, covered with cellophane on top and secured with a plaster. When the clay dries, the compress can be removed. This recipe is also effective for umbilical hernia.
Psoriasis can be cured with clay applications. Powdered clay and sea salt should be mixed in equal proportions to the consistency of sour cream, adding a decoction of the string. The resulting mixture should be placed on a cloth and applied to the psoriasis lesions for at least two hours. The course of treatment must be continued for two weeks every day.
Sore knees can be cured by rubbing it daily. Clay powder should be mixed with massage oil and rubbed into sore areas. A complete cure will require a 14-day course.
Treatment of various diseases with clay
- For bleeding gums, clay diluted with water is placed on a cloth and rubbed.
- If you are overcome by constant headaches pain, then the lotions are applied to the frontal and temporal region. A lump of clay soaked in water is brought to an ointment, plus a little vinegar. They smear the feet for an hour, wrap them in cloth, and put on warm socks.
- During nervous disorders, the following measures are recommended: drinking water infused with clay, applying lotions to the back of the head, rubbing the spine.
- When inflamed ear, then you should heat up a piece of red clay the size of a brick. Lie down, placing it opposite the sore ear. Clay steam penetrating into the ear completely destroys all microbes and relieves pain. You can also place a cloth soaked in water behind your ear and cover it with something warm.
- For hair loss rub with a mixture containing: onion juice, clay water.
Clay treatment at home through rubbing, lotions, and drinking clay water can have a positive effect on the course of many diseases and promote a speedy recovery.
Clay- a plastic natural material used in construction, folk crafts, treatment and healing of the body and in other areas of human life. It is this widespread use that is determined by certain qualities and properties of clay. And the properties of clay are largely influenced by its composition.
Application of clay
Clay is very accessible, and its benefits are invaluable, and therefore it has been used by people since ancient times. There are many mentions of this wonderful material in history textbooks of all countries of the world.
Construction. Currently, clay is used as a material for making red bricks. Clay of a certain composition is molded and fired using a certain technology to obtain a durable and inexpensive ingot - a brick. And buildings and structures are already being built from brick. In some countries and regions, clay is still used to build houses - mud huts; the use of clay is widespread in the construction of brick ovens, where clay serves as a binder (as cement). The same clay is also used for plastering stoves.
Medicine. Wellness and traditional medicine uses clay in the form of mud baths and masks. The whole point is to nourish the surface of the skin with the beneficial elements of clay. Of course, not all clay will work here.
Souvenirs and dishes. I combine two large directions into one, since many examples of dishes are only of a souvenir nature. Plates, pots, jugs and vases are present in abundance in modern stores. Not a single fair is complete without the sale of clay souvenirs - smoky toys, whistles, signs, keychains and much more. You and I will try to create a lot of things ourselves.
Clay can be included in composition of other materials. Finely ground Chasovoyar clay, for example, is an element of artistic paints (gouache), sauce, pastels and sanguine. Read about this in the "Help to the Artist" articles.
Properties of clay
Color. Clay of various compositions has many shades. The clay is called by its colors: red, blue, white... However, upon drying and further firing, the color can completely change. This is worth paying attention to when working with clay.
Plastic. It was the ability to deform and retain the shape given to it that allowed man to find the use of clay in his everyday life. It is worth noting here that everything depends on the consistency - the ratio of the amount of water, clay and sand. For various works needed different compositions. So, for sculpting, sand may be completely unnecessary.
Hygroscopicity allows clay to absorb water, changing its viscosity and plasticity properties. But after firing, clay products acquire water resistance, strength and lightness. The development of technology has made it possible to obtain earthenware and porcelain, which are indispensable in the modern world.
Fire resistance. A property used more in construction than in artistic crafts, except for the firing of products. The firing technology is different for a particular clay composition. Closely related to drying and firing is the property of clay shrinkage or compressibility - a change in mass and size due to the removal of part of the water from the composition.
Clay composition
The properties of clay are determined by its chemical composition. Different types of clay have different chemical compositions. For example, red clay contains a lot of iron oxides. Clay basically contains certain substances - clay minerals - which are formed during various natural phenomena. The format of the article does not provide for consideration chemical properties and the composition of the clay, so I won’t go into detail.
The composition of clay suitable for use in folk crafts, as already mentioned, is determined by three important elements: clay minerals, water and sand.
The proportions of these elements can be changed, although it is much easier to add than to remove. So, for example, dry clay can be quickly dissolved, however, it is not at all easy to make clay as liquid as sour cream suitable for modeling. Sand is very easy to add, but removing it from the clay is a non-trivial task.
There are “lean” and “fat” clays. The “fat content” scale determines the plasticity coefficient, and the binding properties of clay allow you to regulate the fat content by mixing it with other natural materials, for example, sand. Lean clay has less plasticity, its binding force is weaker, but it shrinks less during drying and firing.
Clay deposits are located in different condition Worldwide. This ensured its use by artisans of different nationalities, and contributed to the emergence of such a variety of products and technologies.
Craftsmen have learned to control the behavior and condition of clay through various additives to the composition. This way you can thin the clay, elutriate it, give it greater fire resistance, and reduce shrinkage. As a result of such manipulations experienced master will be able to end up with a high-quality, highly artistic product.
