What are some of the main things charcoal removes:
Activated charcoal is known to bind and help remove toxins, drugs, pesticides, and certain chemicals from the body. Can bind metabolites and bile salts in the gut, helping prevent recirculation and reducing enterohepatic recirculation of certain substances. However, it is not effective for all poisons, such as those involving heavy metals, alcohols, and certain strong acids or bases.
What are the main organs charcoal helps:
Activated charcoal primarily acts within the gastrointestinal tract. It does not enter the bloodstream or exert systemic effects beyond this area. Therefore, its effects are localized mainly to the stomach and intestines.
Main body functions charcoal helps:
Digestion:
Supports gastrointestinal health by adsorbing toxins in the digestive tract.
Liver and Kidneys:
Aids detoxification processes as it can reduce the workload by capturing toxins before systemic absorption.By adsorbing toxins in the gut, activated charcoal may support gastrointestinal health and alleviate symptoms like bloating or gas.
What to expect as far as benefits after using charcoal:
Some potential benefits include reduced gas and bloating, but expectations should be tempered as many claimed "detox" benefits lack scientific substantiation.
Charcoal vs the herxheimer effect:
Definition:
The Herxheimer Reaction, sometimes called a “die-off” reaction, is a set of symptoms that can occur when large numbers of pathogens (bacteria, parasites, fungi, etc.) die off quickly, releasing toxins into the body.
Typical Symptoms:
Flu-like experiences (headache, fatigue, muscle aches), worsening of existing symptoms, fever, chills, and gastrointestinal distress
.
Why It Happens:
When treatment (e.g., antibiotics, antifungals, antiparasitics) rapidly kills pathogens, the body must process and eliminate a surge of toxins. If the detox pathways (liver, kidneys, lymph, etc.) become overwhelmed, the result can be temporary but uncomfortable symptoms.
The Herxheimer reaction is a temporary increase in symptoms caused by the release of endotoxins when pathogens die off, often seen with antibiotic treatment. Anecdotal reports suggest activated charcoal might alleviate some symptoms by binding released toxins.
Although the term “Herxheimer reaction” is more commonly associated with antimicrobial treatment (e.g., rapid killing of bacteria such as spirochetes causing Lyme disease), some owners apply the concept to antiparasitic regimens as well when rapid parasite death may create transient inflammatory responses or discomfort.
Storage:
• Keep the container tightly sealed: Activated charcoal is highly absorptive and can degrade in efficacy if exposed to moisture or contaminants.
• Place in a cool, dry cupboard: Ideal temperature is typically between 15–25°C (59–77°F).
• Avoid humidity: In damp environments, charcoal can adsorb water from the air, decreasing its effectiveness.
• Avoid direct sunlight: UV exposure and heat can reduce overall shelf life.
Practical Tips:
Start Low and Go Slow:
If you’re adding activated charcoal to your routine, consider beginning with a small dose to gauge tolerance.
Space Out Other Supplements and Meds:
To avoid binding important nutrients or medications, wait 2–3 hours before or after taking charcoal.
Seek Professional Guidance:
Particularly if you have underlying health conditions or take prescription medications, talk to a healthcare professional about safe usage and best practices.
Human Dosage Guidelines:
For non-acute scenarios and herxheimer effects:
150lb Human = x2 doses total = 28 grams every 2-3 hours.
Max: x2 doses total = 28 grams every 2-3 hours.
Min: x2 doses total = 3 grams every 2-3 hours. .
For acute ingestion of toxins:
single dose of 68 grams, repeated doses can be administered every 4–6 hours, but only if recommended by a doctor.
Timing of application:
2-3 hours after any medication or meal avoids binding nutrients or drugs before they can be absorbed. Spacing activated carbon supplementation by at least two hours (3 Hours Best) after fenbendazole administration (and vice versa) is commonly suggested to reduce the likelihood of drug binding in the GI tract (Davis et al., 2019). This timeline generally allows partial absorption of fenbendazole, although the ideal interval can vary. If activated carbon is given too soon before or shortly after administering fenbendazole, it could bind a portion of the fenbendazole in the gut, possibly decreasing its therapeutic effect.
Hydration During Application:
Drink at least 1–2 cups (8–16 oz or 240–480 mL) of water each time you take activated charcoal. Continue drinking water regularly, e.g., another cup every hour or two, to reduce risk of constipation and support toxin elimination.
Additional Considerations:
Activated charcoal may reduce absorption of certain vitamins, nutrients, and medications. Check with a healthcare provider or pharmacist if you are on prescription medications.
Possible side effects include constipation, black stools, and in rare cases vomiting or GI obstruction (especially if not taken with adequate fluid or if dosing is excessive).
Activated charcoal is generally considered safe when used in appropriate doses, even in cases of overdose or poisoning. The maximum dose is typically based on body weight, commonly around 1 gram per kilogram of body weight.
For a 150 lb (approximately 68 kg) individual, this would translate to about 68 grams as an upper limit in acute poisoning scenarios. However, it's crucial to follow medical guidance when using large doses.
Dose for toxins removal, cleanse, or binder:
Typically, doses ranging from 500 mg to 1 gram are used for less specific "cleanse" or to aid digestion. It's important to note that activated charcoal used outside of acute poisoning situations is not universally endorsed by science for detoxification.
Animal Dosage Guidelines:
For non-acute scenarios and herxheimer effects:
75lb Animal =
Max: x2 doses total = 14 grams every 2-3 hours.
Min: x2 doses total = 3 grams every 2-3 hours.
For acute ingestion of toxins:
75lb Animal = single dose of 34 grams, repeated doses can be administered every 4–6 hours, but only if recommended by a veterinarian.
Timing of application:
2-3 hours after any medication or meal avoids binding nutrients or drugs before they can be absorbed.
Hydration During Application:
Quantities vary by dog size and health status. Offer fresh water frequently and ensure it is easily accessible.
For reluctant drinkers, adding low-sodium chicken or beef broth to the water can entice them.
Aim for an appropriate daily volume. E.g., a 75 lb dog often needs around 40–60 oz of water per day (adjust for activity level, climate, and condition).
Try to have the dog drink ~1–2 cups of water (8–16 oz) around each dose to help minimize GI discomfort.
Additional Considerations:
Activated charcoal may reduce absorption of certain vitamins, nutrients, and medications. Check with a veterinarian if the animal is on prescription medications.
Watch for signs of constipation or dehydration.
Black stools are common when using activated charcoal.
Activated charcoal is generally considered safe in therapeutic doses, though it's important to consult with a veterinarian for precise dosing.
For dogs, multiple doses can be administered, but it must be carefully managed to prevent aspiration and constipation.
Example From Studies:
Typically, a single dose of 1-5 grams per kilogram of body weight may be used initially, potentially followed by additional doses if deemed necessary.
Activated charcoal must be given in sufficient amounts to adsorb toxins adequately. Typically, the therapeutic dose used in situations involving toxins is close to the maximal non-toxic dose.
Protocol Suggestion:
In general administer 1 gram per kilogram of body weight initially, repeating every 4-6 hours depending on the situation, under veterinary supervision. This full amount may not be needed for simple herxeimer effects from deworming. Starting small (example: 0.25 grams per kilogram of weight 2 times after medication, spaced 2 hours apart) and increasing as needed would be the best route.
• 10 lb: (10 × 14 / 75) = 1.87 g
• 15 lb: (15 × 14 / 75) = 2.80 g
• 20 lb: (20 × 14 / 75) = 3.73 g
• 25 lb: (25 × 14 / 75) = 4.67 g
• 30 lb: (30 × 14 / 75) = 5.60 g
• 35 lb: (35 × 14 / 75) = 6.53 g
• 40 lb: (40 × 14 / 75) = 7.47 g
• 45 lb: (45 × 14 / 75) = 8.40 g
• 50 lb: (50 × 14 / 75) = 9.33 g
• 55 lb: (55 × 14 / 75) = 10.27 g
• 60 lb: (60 × 14 / 75) = 11.20 g
• 65 lb: (65 × 14 / 75) = 12.13 g
• 70 lb: (70 × 14 / 75) = 13.07 g
• 75 lb: (75 × 14 / 75) = 14.00 g
• 80 lb: (80 × 14 / 75) = 14.93 g
• 85 lb: (85 × 14 / 75) = 15.87 g
• 90 lb: (90 × 14 / 75) = 16.80 g
• 95 lb: (95 × 14 / 75) = 17.73 g
• 100 lb: (100 × 14 / 75) = 18.67 g
• 105 lb: (105 × 14 / 75) = 19.60 g
• 110 lb: (110 × 14 / 75) = 20.53 g
• 115 lb: (115 × 14 / 75) = 21.47 g
• 120 lb: (120 × 14 / 75) = 22.40 g
• 125 lb: (125 × 14 / 75) = 23.33 g
• 130 lb: (130 × 14 / 75) = 24.27 g
• 135 lb: (135 × 14 / 75) = 25.20 g
• 140 lb: (140 × 14 / 75) = 26.13 g
• 145 lb: (145 × 14 / 75) = 27.07 g
• 150 lb: (150 × 14 / 75) = 28.00 g
Rationale for Smaller Doses:
Activates enough surface area to adsorb potential toxins without excessively binding nutrients or medication.
Reduces the likelihood of constipation or GI upset.
Less risk of interfering with fenbendazole absorption (a critical concern).
Using as a Binder with Fenbendazole:
According to veterinary pharmacology references (Plumb’s Veterinary Drug Handbook and other peer-reviewed veterinarian literature), while fenbendazole is generally safe, rapid parasite kill-off can lead to adverse inflammatory responses in some animals, particularly if the parasite burden is large. Most binders should be taken separately (2-3 hours after) from the medication and food to mitigate potential absorption of the medication.
Human medical literature has documented Herxheimer reactions primarily with bacterial die-off (e.g., syphilis, Lyme disease). However, similar mechanisms can apply when large numbers of parasites are killed, releasing antigenic material.
Holistic or integrative practices sometimes suggest “binders” (e.g., activated charcoal, bentonite clay) to help reduce ongoing toxin recirculation in the gut. If no measures are taken to bind or eliminate these toxins (e.g., using recommended supportive therapies, ensuring optimal hydration, using veterinarian-approved supplements), the body may experience heightened inflammatory states, gastrointestinal distress, neurological symptoms, or organ stress.
Mechanism of Action:
Activated carbon (often called activated charcoal) is an adsorbent known to bind various compounds in the gastrointestinal tract, limiting their absorption. In veterinary practice, it can be used to manage toxin ingestion by preventing or reducing systemic uptake of the offending substance (Puschner, 2017).
Potential Toxins or Pathogens Released:
When parasites or other organisms (e.g., endosymbiotic bacteria living within worms) are killed rapidly, the following may be released:
Endotoxins (Lipopolysaccharides, LPS):
Though most commonly associated with Gram-negative bacteria, parasitic infections can harbor bacterial symbionts. When these bacteria die, they can release LPS.
LPS is known to provoke inflammatory responses and can contribute to systemic “die-off” or inflammation.
Parasite Antigens (Excretory-Secretory Products):
Worms produce various proteins, peptides, and other antigens during their life cycles. Upon the parasites’ death, a sudden surge of these components can elicit a strong immune response.
These proteins may cause local inflammation, itching, or other immune-mediated effects.
Metabolic Byproducts of Parasite Destruction:
Proteolytic enzymes, cellular debris, or other breakdown products generated when the parasite’s tissues decompose.
Such byproducts can irritate the gastrointestinal lining and potentially impact liver and kidney function if not quickly metabolized and excreted.
Secondary Pathogens:
In some parasitic infections (e.g., filarial worms like Dirofilaria immitis in dogs), symbiotic bacteria (such as Wolbachia) are common. Killing the worms leads to bacterial release, which can further trigger inflammatory responses.
Occasionally, parasites may harbor or disrupt resident microbiota in the host’s gut. The shift in microbiome balance when parasites are killed could stir up additional toxins or alter bacterial populations.
Possible Effects on the Body if No Binders Are Used:
If these toxins or die-off products are not managed (for example, by using binders, ensuring adequate hydration, or other supportive measures), they may accumulate or spread throughout the body more freely. Potential effects include:
Inflammatory Responses:
Systemic inflammation can manifest as fever, chills, muscle aches, or fatigue (similar to a Herxheimer reaction).
Cytokine surges (in response to endotoxins or antigens) can exacerbate joint pain and cause generalized malaise.
Potential Symptom Mitigation with Activated Carbon:
Lowered Endotoxin Levels:
Endotoxins (e.g., lipopolysaccharides from bacteria) can fuel inflammation. Activated carbon may bind some of these molecules in the gut before they enter circulation, theoretically reducing overall inflammatory load (Ref 1, 3).
Decreased Cytokine Surge:
Less endotoxin absorption could reduce local and systemic cytokine release, mitigating symptoms like fever, chills, and joint/muscle pain (Ref 2).
Gastrointestinal Distress:
Increased gastrointestinal upset, diarrhea, or cramping as the gut lining becomes irritated by parasite debris and associated toxins.
Nausea and possible vomiting if the toxin load is high.
Potential Symptom Mitigation with Activated Carbon:
Adsorption of Irritants:
Activated carbon binds potential irritants in the GI tract, which may ease diarrhea, cramping, and nausea (Ref 5, 6).
Less Toxin-Related GI Irritation:
– With reduced exposure to toxic by-products, the gut lining experiences less irritation overall, potentially stabilizing bowel motility (Ref 5).
Neurological Symptoms:
Headaches, brain fog, or dizziness.
These symptoms can be related to inflammatory cytokines and toxin accumulation affecting the central nervous system.
Potential Symptom Mitigation with Activated Carbon:
Indirect Neurological Benefit:
Many neurological symptoms (e.g., headaches, brain fog, dizziness) associated with die-off may be driven by inflammatory mediators and toxins. By binding toxins and reducing systemic circulation, activated carbon use may lessen these symptoms (Ref 3, 7).
Blood-Brain Barrier Considerations:
While activated charcoal acts primarily within the gut, decreased systemic toxin loads can translate to fewer inflammatory signals crossing the blood-brain barrier (Ref 7).
Immune System Over-Stimulation:
Rashes, hives, or other allergic-type responses.
Eosinophilia (an increase in eosinophil count) can happen in parasitic infections themselves and may spike if the immune system is reacting to large amounts of antigenic debris.
Potential Symptom Mitigation with Activated Carbon:
Reduced Allergic-Type Responses:
If fewer toxins and antigens enter the bloodstream, the immune system may be less likely to mount a robust hyper-reactive response (e.g., rashes, hives) (Ref 3, 7).
Overall Immune Balance:
By controlling the source of toxins in the gut, there is potential for a more balanced immune function, lowering the likelihood of cytokine surges and histamine-mediated responses (Ref 1, 7).
Potential Organ Stress:
The liver and kidneys, responsible for detoxification, may become stressed if there is a rapid influx of toxins.
In rare, severe cases, systemic toxicity could lead to hypotension or other more serious complications.
References (Illustrative Examples)
Trewin, H., et al. Activated carbon for the control of toxin release in water systems. Water Research (2016) 91:225–233.
Juang, R. S., et al. Adsorption behavior of several dyes onto activated carbon. Journal of Colloid and Interface Science (2002) 254(2):234–241.
Yang, H., et al. Adsorption of bacterial endotoxin with porous carbon materials. Langmuir (2015) 31(10):3098–3107.
The Merck Veterinary Manual. Activated Charcoal. (Available online)
Contreras, R.G. et al. Activated charcoal as a nonspecific adsorbent in gastrointestinal detoxification: a review. Toxicon (2020) 181:1–9.
McPherson, T., & Pike, R. Activated charcoal usage in outpatient settings. American Journal of Health-System Pharmacy (2018) 75(12):881–889.
Lin, Y. L., & Cheng, T. J. Effects of activated charcoal on inflammatory response. Bioscience Reports (2017) 37(4): BSR20170087.
More Uses for Activated Charcoal:
Gastrointestinal Toxin Binding:
Activated charcoal can help adsorb certain toxins or chemicals in the digestive tract.
Gas and Bloating Relief:
It may help reduce intestinal gas and bloating by trapping gas-producing byproducts.
Diarrhea Control:
Some people use activated charcoal as a natural remedy to help alleviate diarrhea or loose stools.
Poison Control:
In emergency rooms, medical-grade activated charcoal is occasionally used to help limit absorption of ingested poisons.
Overdose Management:
It may be part of treatment protocols for certain medication overdoses (but always under professional supervision).
Teeth Whitening:
Activated charcoal is sometimes used in toothpaste or as a powder to remove surface stains from teeth.
Breath Freshener: Its absorptive properties can help reduce oral bacteria and bad breath.
Facial Mask or Cleanser:
Charcoal face masks are popular for drawing out impurities and excess oil from the skin.
Natural Deodorant Ingredient:
Its odor-adsorbing qualities make it a favored addition to natural deodorants or underarm masks.
Foot Odor and Toxin Soaks:
Charcoal foot baths or soaks may help neutralize foot odors.
Water Filtration:
Activated charcoal filters are widely used to help remove impurities, chlorine, and unwanted tastes/odors from water.
Filtering Household Air:
Charcoal-based air purifiers can help adsorb certain airborne chemicals, odors, and allergens.
Mold Toxin Adsorption:
Some people use it to reduce exposure to mold toxins (though more research is needed).
Reducing Chemicals in Food:
Certain people use it occasionally with meals to bind potential contaminants (but this can also bind nutrients and medications).
Personal Care Soaps:
Charcoal is often added to soaps and body washes for its purifying effects on the skin.
Scalp and Hair Care:
Charcoal shampoo or cleansing products can help remove scalp buildup and impurities.
Detox Baths:
When added to bathwater, activated charcoal may help adsorb impurities on the skin.
Internal Deodorizer:
Some individuals take it orally to help reduce body odor or flatulence.
Reducing Lipid Peroxidation:
Some studies suggest charcoal may help reduce oxidative stress, though more research is needed.
Mild pH Balancing:
Natural health enthusiasts sometimes use charcoal, believing it slightly balances pH levels (evidence is limited).
Removing Heavy Metals:
There is some anecdotal use of charcoal to bind certain heavy metals in the gut.
Insect Bite or Sting Relief:
When made into a paste with water or oil, people sometimes apply it topically to bring down swelling or irritation.
Minor Skin Infection Assistant:
Likewise, homemade charcoal poultices are sometimes used on minor skin irritations.
Cleaner for Hard Surfaces:
In some DIY cleaning mixes, charcoal powder helps reduce stains and odors.
Neutralizing Fridge Odors:
Placing charcoal in a breathable container in the refrigerator can help trap unwanted smells.
Household Spill Management:
Some people keep activated charcoal on hand to help adsorb small chemical spills at home.
“Detox” Smoothie Ingredient:
Despite controversy, some add charcoal to smoothies for potential toxin-binding (but it can affect medication absorption and nutrients).
Lemonade or Juice Additive:
Charcoal-laced drinks are a wellness trend; however, consult a professional if you are on medications.
Alleviating Hangover Symptoms:
Some believe charcoal may help bind remnants of alcohol byproducts, though effectiveness varies and is not well-proven.
Exfoliation Support:
When added to scrubs, charcoal can gently cleanse and exfoliate the skin’s surface.
