Activated Charcoal and its uses.
In the early 1800’s a professor Touery drank a lethal dose of strychnine that he had combined with activated charcoal, thus discovering its counter-effects of poison. It is now proven to absorb almost any toxic poison or chemical.
The use of activated charcoal after stomach pumpings for poison is common. The stomach pumping itself is most effective within one half hour of poison intake and doesn’t provide treatment past the stomach itself, therefore it is often given to poison patients after stomach pumping to absorb much of the poison that has passed through the stomach. As a note, milk may reduce the effects of activated charcoal, so it is better to avoid these home remedies and seek medical attention immediately.
Activated charcoal is the most effective method of reducing the uptake of ingested substances. However, there are several factors against its use. Most importantly, it is poorly accepted by young children, making its use difficult.
Other uses for activated charcoal would be for a tooth infection, it is recommended by the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology to rinse with activated charcoal before a dental amalgam. If you have a painful tooth infection you can place a tablet against the tooth and it will absorb the pain causing toxins.
Activated charcoal is also used in air filters where it absorbs many allergens and pollutants, leaving the air clean and fresh. For the many sufferers of asthma, allergies and other common breathing problems, the use of activated carbon filters will greatly improve your breathing quality. These filters are very effective in reducing factors that may affect the breathing in people with these breathing problems.
Activated charcoal is also used in fish tanks to promote a clean and healthy environment for you fish. It absorbs the organic waste of the fish and keeps the water clearer. It should be changed frequently and the tank should be monitored on a regular basis to ensure a delicate balance of life within the tank.
As you can see activated charcoal has many helpful uses and it is an all natural ingredient. Every household should have some on hand just in case it is needed.