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Therapeutic Benefits of Calcium Montmorillonite Clay

Calcium montmorillonite clay has been used by indigenous cultures and healers for centuries as an internal and external healing agent. Also known as 'living clay' for it principally consists of minerals that enhance the production of enzymes in all living organisms. The Natives would use this mineral rich clay on open wounds and for stomach or intestinal distress. The use of Calcium montmorillonite clay for the health care of humans and animals is an accepted practice throughout the world.


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Healing With Calcium Montmorillonite Clay

Montmorillonite clay health benefitsBecause of its inherent healing properties, Montmorillonite clay has long been recognized as a subject worthy of study.  Calcium Montmorillonite Clay is currently being utilized in hospitals outside of the United States where it has already proven its effectiveness.

In recent years clay has become a topic of discussion in numerous publications. Recently more information has become available outlining the important role that Calcium Montmorillonite Clay can play in the recovery and maintenance of health. It has also been receiving significant recognition by the health care community, as a proven and much overlooked natural alternative remedy in the prevention and cure of disease.

Recent exposure has spurred the interest of people around the world, prompting them to seek out reliable high quality resources for clay. This well deserved notoriety is serving to educate the public about this natural healing agent, as a true “Miracle of Life.

Not all Calcium Montmorillonite is the Same

Calcium Montmorillonite Terramin Clay

In order to absorb the trace elements, these elements must be of a small size. Neva Jensen states that Terramin Clay (a natural, premium Calcium Montmorillonite of extreme fine-particle size) has the advantage of increased exchange properties since the calcium montmorillonite deposit has undergone extensive hydrothermal exposure.

These favorable properties were created naturally from igneous activity deep in the fissures of the earth, bringing boiling water to the surface of the earth, and creating extensive pools of bubbling mud. These bubbling pools churn the calcium montmorillonite, adding beneficial trace minerals and breaking down the larger size parent material. Over a long period of time this activity brings about complete fragmentation or crystallization and hydrolysis of the clay making it readily available for absorption.

Montmorillonite was first described in 1847 in Montmorillon, France more than 50 years before the discovery of Bentonite in the US and is named after that city. In years past sailing vessels departing from France were known to store clay on board for the treatment of dysentery as well as other ailments. Animals, domestic and wild alike,eat clay and roll into clay mud for healing and to obtain relief from injuries.

Miracle of Living clay Montmorillonite clay deposits originated from volcanic ash, minerals and eons of weathering. The clay was formed layer after layer over a long period of time. Properties of Montmorillonite can vary considerably such as color, mineral content, pH, and ionic charge. Montmorillonite clay can be white, pale pink, blue, yellow, red, or green in color with shades in between. Bentonite is another name for Montmorillonite although it is calcium bentonite having different properties than sodium bentonite.

A recognized detoxifying agent, nutrient and bactericidal Calcium Montmorillonite Clay is in the smectite group of clays. Only those clays within the smectite group have the ability to absorb. Its power as a detoxifying substance comes from its inherent ability to adsorb and absorb. Its unique ability to grow and change (adsorb) is the reason for its classification and recognition as a 'Living Clay'. While there is more than one Montmorillonite, the red Calcium Montmorillonite Clay of the smectite group remains a favorite for human use.

Clay which has been hydro-thermally altered and seasoned in the arid desert is rich in content. The color of clay is determined by the mixture and ratio of elements contained within it. Hydro-thermal exposures over long periods of time affect the clay in two important aspects; it becomes negatively charged and crystallized. As a result of the crystallization process the clay is reduced into small particles that make it easy for the body to assimilate. The negative charges on the clay give it the ability to adsorb or attract positively charged toxic matter, which is then absorbed into the clay and dispelled from the body as waste.

In addition to the role it plays as a potent detoxifier, “Calcium Montmorillonite Clay has also been used extensively in the treatment of pain, open wounds, colitis, diarrhea, hemorrhoids, stomach ulcers, intestinal problems, acne, anemia, and a variety of other health issues.

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As mentioned above “Living Clay is known to have been used historically as an effective antibacterial in the treatment of dysentery, and as a means of decontaminating water. Presently it is being used internationally to clarify and balance small and large bodies of water. This is so because “Living Clay particles are smaller than many bacteria; when bacteria encounters an environment abundant in clay it becomes surrounded by the clay, and embedded in it. The immediate result is that the bacteria are unable to receive nourishment and cannot survive.

The dominant approach in health care today is from the viewpoint that considers the notion of parts. The diagnosis of illness is often arrived at by looking for a specific disease by relying on symptoms surfacing in an apparently localized part or parts of the body. Once identified a specific medication for a specific problem is applied. Only recently has medical science begun once again, to explore the idea that health problems surface as a result of disease in the whole system, not just one or more of the parts. The immune system intimately affects each organ on a fundamental level, which spans the boundaries of all the body’s vital functions.

This is critical to understanding the cause of chronic and degenerative disease. The body’s vital systems are dependent on each other. The presence of disease in any system impacts all systems. A lifestyle without substantial nutrition, sufficient rest, a proper balance of stress, and numerous other factors can weaken the immune system. Malfunction of the immune system leads to infectious disease. It is unrealistic to treat parts, and expect a whole result.

NASA-Tested, Mother-Earth Approved, Terramin


Not all products on the market can say that NASA has tested them! However IonMin Clay by California Earth Minerals can! The study done by NASA was extensive and involved several experiments to see how bones were affected by the addition of different calcium intakes to the diets of several test subjects. The tests included ION-MIN from California Earth Minerals® mine near Brawley, California. The study showed conclusively the superior benefits that ION-MIN provided for strengthening the bones of the test subjects.

The most effective calcium source that was tested is from the exact same area on the property where California Earth Mineral clay products are being mined today. The Terramin you take today is the same as the clay the astronauts took. Terramin is 100% safe and effective clay that has surpassed all U.S. standards for product purity and consistency. Terramin is an edible Calcium Montmorillonite clay that contains a combination of more than 60 macro, micro and essential trace mineral elements that are in a 100% natural form. This clay acts as a catalyst to enhance healing, growth, digestion and detoxification in all living things.

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NASA sponsored research - Dr. Benjamin H. Ershoff

December, 1964: Dr. Benjamin H. Ershoff, begins NASA-sponsored research prompted by evidence that astronauts' bodies lose large amounts of calcium from the bones under conditions of weightlessness. According to doctors, such conditions weaken the body and increase chances that kidney stones may develop during flights lasting months or years. Ershoff found that supplementing the diet with calcium alone couldn't reverse the severe damage of severely accelerated osteoporosis--but clay did, for animals. Especially the calcium montmorillonite clay produced impressive results in promoting growth and preventing disorders in the bones such as osteoporosis of tested animals, Ershoff said.

When a small percentage of the Nutramin Clay was added to the diet, Ershoff said, the animals' body weight increased and bone diseases were prevented. Little other benefits were noted, he said, when calcium alone was added. "This means that the clay supplement contained some factor or factors other than calcium which promoted improved calcium utilization and bone formation," he explained. Ershoff added that the consumption of clay has been observed among many peoples and animals for centuries, especially in areas where there is a marked deficiency of calcium, iron and other minerals in the diet.

I soak in hot Clay bath The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition published an article on clay eating and detoxification (Timothy and Duquette 1991). Among the many examples listed by the authors, the following are some of the more striking evidence for body purification through the use of clay. When the Pomo Indians of California consumed clay with traditional bitter and toxic types of acorns, the clay absorbed the poisons and eliminated the bitterness.

The Indians were able to survive on a staple food that, without clay, would have posed a serious potential threat to their health. In an experiment performed under laboratory conditions, rats voluntarily ate clay in response to gastrointestinal problems induced by poisoning. Further examples cited chimpanzees who ate clay after ingesting plant foods loaded with toxins. The article concluded that clays could adsorb dietary toxins, bacterial toxins associated with gastrointestinal disturbance, hydrogen ions in acidosis, or metabolic toxins such as steroidal metabolites associated with pregnancy. All these conditions result in a host of common symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea – in short, symptoms of toxic overload.

40 million Americans don’t even have to go to the doctor to get their medications, it comes for free in the tap water which is polluted with all kinds of nasty pharmaceutical drugs. Armed with the proper information, there’s no reason to fear the latest news about toxins and pharmaceutical drugs being found in your water. Not to say that this news isn’t alarming. Measures must be taken to remove these harmful substances from our ecosystem. But until the day that dream becomes a reality, you can protect yourself and your loved ones with calcium bentonite clay. Taken internally, therapeutic clay safely removes toxins from your system.

Geophagy: Eating Clay Soil Based Organism (SBO) as MedicineAccording to an article published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, "Detoxification and Mineral Supplementation As Functions of Geophagy" (Johns and Duguette 1991), the most prevalent explanation of clay eating is that it is a response to nutritional deficiency. In several clinical studies, eating clay has been implicated as a response to particular deficiencies. In a handful of experiments run by scientists, mineral deficiencies, such as those for iron or potassium, were introduced to animals. As a result of those experiments, those animals changed in their dietary behavior.

For instance, iron deficiency has been established as a reason for the ingestion of certain clays, although there is still debate on this issue. In the Runjut Valley, in the Sikkim Himalayas, the natives chew a red clay as a cure for goiter because of its particular mineral content. It is not uncommon for mineral supplements in health food stores to contain portions of various types of clay. Certain clays, though not all clays, contribute major amounts of important minerals, such as calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese, and zinc.

While Calcium Montmorillonite Clay is a powerful nutrient and detoxifier it is important to recognize that it is a part of a total health care system. Healing benefits may result from internal and/or external clay applications. The clay may be ingested, applied as a poultice, and/or used in a bath. An appropriate lifestyle and the proper guidance of a health care practitioner are essential to one’s well being. Determining the most beneficial and appropriate application of Calcium Montmorillonite Clay is best discussed with someone familiar with its properties.

Natural medicines serve as catalysts triggering our bodies built in healing mechanisms as they work to restore health. I was prompted to write this article because of my personal experience with the far reaching healing powers of natural Calcium Montmorillonite Clay. My hope is that the information provided here will encourage others to consult with their respective health practitioners, in considering its use as a part of their daily health regime.

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Healing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome with calcium Montmorillonite clay

"It all started with a television program. I am not an avid watcher of the little box, but my husband sure is, and he likes to watch a lot of documentaries. Well, that is where I saw "IonMin Clay" for the first time, on the Discovery Channel. I was in the kitchen and heard something on the television that really interested me. You mean to tell me that NASA gives their astronauts "clay" to eat! Wow, I was thinking, if NASA uses it for the well-being of their astronauts, I want it to. So, I ran to the television, sat down and watched the incredible story of what this clay is, why NASA used it and who makes it. I got my first 2 lbs. jar of this clay and started taking it. This was just a week or two before Christmas of 2005.

Home base business opportunity Why did I buy it? I am at the computer a lot doing accounting for our small business, good old carpal tunnel syndrome was settling in, and back problems were also joining in, all contributing to lousy, aching night of trying to sleep. I was looking for a solution.

I have tried a lot of homeopathic ideas, vitamins, minerals, herbs, what was one more! I refuse to take prescription drugs, end of story. I was faithful, taking a good teaspoon in the morning on an empty stomach with a full glass of water. I do not drink sodas or coffee, so you see water is my liquid of choice so it is easy for me to drink plenty.

Well, one week went by, no difference, two weeks went by, hey maybe something is going on, but not really sure. Well, the third week, wow, my hands do not tingle as much as they did, and when I drove, they did not fall asleep. It is working! One more week, and that was the one for me! We are all different, and maybe others experience a change sooner or even later, but me a good month, and I was sleeping, no tingling, hands did not fall asleep at night! YES! I will say, at times my hands would feel like they were getting ready to tingle, but did not. I love you calcium montmorillonite clay.

But wait, maybe just maybe, it was not the IonMin Clay, and it was another supplement. Ok, I just recently did a horrible experiment on myself that has really caused me a lot of pain, but it did prove a point. I have been taking clay over a year now, what if I quit completely. Well, I did do that for four weeks starting in March and ending yesterday, April 22. I still took all of my supplements, but cut out the clay completely. Ouch! Guess what, here comes the tingling in my hands, I have had a horrible time sleeping, trying to find that right spot so my hands do not go to sleep. Driving started to hurt again. It has been awful, and today, I started back on my Edible Clay and really knowing this time that this clay in my water works. Did I get my old painful symptoms back right away during my trial period of no clay?

Actually, not the first week, or the second, but by the third week, ugh, I have had a very hard time. Yes, I was a guinea pig, but not for Science, but for myself and to tell others that it really does work for me." Starla L. Allen

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An aging Indian brought me some bags of clay

The Healing Power of Living Clay “The American Indians are dear to my heart. It is in the spirit of their traditions that I wish to unfold the story of clay. Without this dedication to the Indian tradition, the story would lack an essential and deeply human dimension. As a young woman I struggled with serious health problems. One day an aging Indian brought me some bags of clay to take with herbs for the relief of pain, and to restore normal body functioning. This same man disclosed to me, over the course of several years, the effectiveness of healing with nature’s resources. While observing and working with other native healers, I found myself zealous to know more and more of these healing traditions. While I was privy to the sacred ceremonies of these American natives, a desire awoke within me to share this reverently held body of knowledge with humanity. May you taste deeply of the wonder and reverence for the miracle of life that the story of Living Clay represents.

The value of specific clays for health care is just being recognized by medicine today, although native cultures have sought and used these clays since antiquity . . . Young Native American Indian women placed small pieces of clay in their infant's mouths to pacify them while molding pottery. Native tradition taught them which clays were edible, while science utilizes modern techniques to distinguish clay mineral types from the common grain of clay.

Dietary studies of descendants of the Incas of long ago reveal clay eating as a common practice. When their ancestral mountain empire was ravaged, the last of the Inca’s rulers escaped deep into the Andean mountains. They took with them supplies of clay, which were valued even above the treasures of the empire. They were transported by human carriers to the secret city.

As the explorers came to the New World, they observed the American Indian using various clays. Some of these uses were: the face mask of a proud warrior, the painted body of a ceremonial dancer; [and] a cool clay pack on a exhausted messenger.

Clays most valued by the wise Indian healers were sought where hydrothermal activity was evident. These edible clays were highly treasured, and to secure a supply, the natives often traveled long distances. The use of clay was introduced to the pioneers through the skills of the native Indian women, who on occasion were taken as wives by the white men. However, the gathering of the clay had traditionally been done by the men of the tribe, thus substitutions began to occur in the white villages. Slowly the effectiveness of this healing art was lost... "

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Animals: Wild, Domesticated Carnivores, Herbivores Use Healing Clay

Dog mudbath Animals, domestic and wild alike, instinctively drawn to clay deposits have been observed licking the clay as part of their everyday diet, and rolling in it to obtain relief from injuries.

Animals are instinctively selective about the types of minerals they will ingest, shunning sedimentary minerals in favor of mineral deposits formed by igneous hydrothermal activity. Extensive studies with cattle, horses, pigs, fish, chickens and other animals have shown that the volume of food intake is less when mineral supplements are added to the their diet. Additional benefits are noted as well, for example, increases in butter fat and milk output are documented from dairy cows. These improvements have been found in all studies using a specific type of calcium montmorillonite.

The Healing Power of Living Clay Why would animals want to eat dirt or clay? Many animals eat clay, which is not only an effective way of binding and excreting various toxins but, by lining the gut, it can treat gastrointestinal problems. Native people often mix clay with tannin-rich foods such as acorns before cooking them (tannins are bitter chemicals produced by plants as a defense but they are also active against bacteria and fungi).

A type of clay regularly mined by mountain gorillas in Rwanda is very similar to the kaolin sold in chemists for relief of upset stomachs. Another good source of clay are termite mounds, and chimpanzees are often seen breaking off chunks of soil from them. In one close study of five chimps seen eating termite soil, all were found to be suffering from gastrointestinal problems.

Most animals are plagued by small biting insects such as fleas, lice, mites, ticks and various parasites which can drain blood and inhibit Dog mudbath growth, so they have developed a variety of ways to deal with them. Monkeys, apart from constant grooming, also rub themselves with soothing plants and even insects. Capuchins in Costa Rica, for instance, use the Piper plant, from the chilli family, which contains compounds that deaden pain and kill off insects. Catnip probably does something similar for cats.

Benefits of calcium montmorillonite clay minerals have been documented in research conducted by many scientists and leading universities. Dr. B.H. Ershoff, from the University of Southern California School of Medicine, conducted research for NASA which demonstrated the growth promoting properties of calcium montmorillonite minerals in cattle.

I mixed a couple of teaspoons of clay into my dog's food and within days his stools were firm again. I continue to mix clay into his food everyday to provide him with important nutrients. Shirley

Dr. Quisenberry, from Texas AM, researched the beneficial effects of calcium montmorillonite clays when fed to many farm animals including horses, pigs, chickens, etc. Neva Jensen, a nationally known nutrition expert, wrote a book on Wild birds eat clay for 
	trace minerals and cleanse toxinsred desert calcium montmorillonite clay called "The Healing Power of Living Clay," explaining how the nutrients in certain clays are assimilated in our bodies. The US Department of Fish and Wildlife conducted similar studies on trout fish on the Snake River in Hagerman, Idaho revealing the same health promoting effects. All of these studies were specific to the Terramin Clay.

Many species of mammals, birds, reptiles, and even insects, in all parts of the world, eat dirt. Known as geophagy (earth-eating) this habit has long been assumed to be an attempt to rectify mineral deficiencies in their diet. However new evidence suggests that this cannot always be the case. It has become apparent that the clay content is often the most important ingredient of selected soils. Clay is an effective binding agent as its chemical structure allows other chemicals to bond with it and so lose their reactivity. Clay is therefore an effective deactivator of toxins from diet or pathogens. Clay is the primary ingredient of kaolin and kaopectate that we use when suffering from gastrointestinal malaise.

  • Biologists in Canada and Alaska have seen brown bears lick clay from banks alongside footpaths. At the same time, their scats are full of clay.
  • In Venezuela free-ranging cattle dig and lick at clay subsoils. In Africa, the African buffalo licks clay from any newly exposed subsoil.
  • Chimpanzees, giraffes, and rhinoceroses eat regular mouthfuls of clay-rich termite mound soil and gorillas mine clay-rich volcanic rock from under the exposed roots of ancient trees.
  • Rats eat soil when sick - so reliably that geophagy is used as an indicator of gastrointestinal malaise in rats."
Order Here Montmorillonite Nutramin Clay for Animals
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Adsorbing and Absorbing Toxins

The ideal clay is one that will adsorb and absorb the poisons, as well as enhance or expand on whatever nutrients have been taken. For instance, if the herbs ginseng and garlic have been taken, or the antioxidant pycnogenol, one should benefit from greater assimilation because of the clay's action as an intestinal cleanser and gastrointestinal regulator. As the body cleans house, it is in a better position to more efficiently assimilate the much-needed nutrients.

Unfortunately, many people take a handful of supplements but never reap the desired effects because of a malfunctioning colon. Whereas a healthy person will digest most of whatever food substance he or she puts into the body, someone whose colon function is deficient may digest very little. Although new health programs may be introduced, sometimes the person is still feeling run-down, cranky, and sick. Clay can be an important part of one's health program because it assists colon function. Then, whatever supplements are taken in addition to the clay will be better used by the body because the body will have the means to do so.

Mineral Deficiency and Supplementation

Clay provides an impressive assortment of minerals, including calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium, manganese, and silica as well as trace elements - those appearing in very tiny amounts. Without the basic minerals, life cannot exist; without the trace minerals, major deficiencies will develop. The lack of either will make it impossible for the body to maintain good health.

Most people don't realize the importance of minerals and underestimate their legitimacy and use. This is too bad, because the body cannot manufacture its own minerals. Instead, they must be supplied by outside sources. Our need for minerals is as important as our need for air or water.

"The body can tolerate a deficiency of vitamins for a longer period of time than it can a deficiency of minerals. A slight change in the blood concentration of important minerals may rapidly endanger life," says F. P. Anita, M.D., in his book Clinical Dietetics and Nutrition (1989). Furthermore, mineral deficiencies can exacerbate symptoms caused by vitamin deficiency.

In most clays, the mineral exists in natural proportion to one another. This encourages their absorption by the intestinal tract. Accordingly, clay has been used by many tribes and cultures in the treatment of anemia and other mineral deficiencies

Minerals are present in living tissue and are essential to all chemical reactions in the body. However, the body cannot manufacture its own minerals, and they must therefore be supplied by an outside source. Without minerals, the body will easily succumb to disease. What Do Minerals Do?

Minerals perform a number of important functions.
  • Supply major elements and trace elements that may be lacking in the diet.
  • Act as catalysts, thus playing a major role in metabolism and cell building.
  • Regulate the permeability of cell membranes.
  • Maintain water balance and osmotic pressure between the inside and outside environment.
  • Influence the contractibility of muscles.
  • Regulate the response of nerves to stimuli.

Why are minerals so important to the chemical reactions in the human body? The cell is like an electrical battery with positive and negative charges. When the energy of the battery begins to weaken, the cell becomes sick and weak. However, if the dying cell is charged by an electrical current, it will become living once again. Minerals themselves hold positive and electrical charges. The exchange of these charges accounts for its action. Scientists are not sure exactly how this works or to what degree it does. Yet, when the cell is given the essential minerals it needs to live, it can regenerate and "nurse" itself back to health.

Clay works best when taken over a long period of time. That's because its actions are subtle. Like a snowball rolling down the hill, it starts off small and slow. As it continues to roll, it soon picks up momentum and goes faster. Clay does not offer instant cures for all ailments, but history shows it can encourage the body to put up a better fight when taken over a long period of time.

When clay is taken for indefinite periods of time, it has no addictive qualities. This is a big concern for many who begin eating the clay. The effects can be so positive that it scares them into thinking they might need it forever. However, one can quit eating clay at any time. There are no withdrawal symptoms, and you will never need to enter a withdrawal program.

Many people ask if clay is something they have to take for the rest of their life. The answer to the question, of course, is they don't have to; there is no risk in discontinuing its use. But, why not take something that is good and will help clean out your body? Especially in today's highly polluted world, the liver and kidneys are so overworked they never have a chance to rest. Taking a spoonful of earth minerals every day helps them to work better and keeps the mind and body functioning in tip-top condition. To remain healthy, eat clay for a long time.

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Calcium Montmorillonite Clay

Both human and animal ingestion of calcium montmorillonite minerals have been an accepted practice throughout the world for many years. Calcium montmorillonite mineral deposits have been used by Native American healers for centuries as an internal and external healing agent. The Native Americans would use mineral rich clay on open wounds and for stomach or intestinal distress. The key to these healing benefits is the natural form in which these minerals are found.

Calcium Montmorillonite living clay Montmorillonite belongs to the smectite group of clays. There are two types of montmorillonite, sodium and calcium. Sodium montmorillonite is commonly known as bentonite; the name is derived from the location of the first commercial deposit mined at Fort Benton, Wyoming USA.

Bentonite principally consists of sodium montmorillonite in combination with 10 to 20% of various mineral impurities such as feldspars, calcite, silica, gypsum, etc. Sodium montmorillonite clays are the industrial clays used in things like: plaster, oil well drilling mud, cat litter, matches, cement tiles, lubricating grease, paints, copy paper, dynamite, shoe polish, concrete, cleaning agents, wall boards, crayons, and bleaching agents to mention a few.

Calcium montmorillonite, the second type of montmorillonite, is also known as "living clay" for it principally consists of minerals that enhance the production of enzymes in all living organisms. California Earth Minerals calcium montmorillonite is the preferred choice to use for soil, plants, animals and humans, especially when ingested, hence "edible clays. " Benefits of calcium montmorillonite minerals have been documented in research conducted by many scientists and leading universities.

Dr. B.H. Ershoff, from the University of Southern California School of Medicine, conducted research for NASA which demonstrated the growth promoting properties of calcium montmorillonite minerals in cattle. Dr. Quisenberry, from Texas A/M, researched the beneficial effects of calcium montmorillonite clays when fed to many farm animals including horses, pigs, chickens, etc. Neva Jensen, a nationally known nutrition expert, wrote a book on red desert calcium montmorillonite clay called "The Healing Power of Living Clay," explaining how the nutrients in certain clays are assimilated in our bodies. The US Department of Fish and Wildlife conducted similar studies on trout fish on the Snake River in Hagerman, Idaho revealing the same health promoting effects. All of these studies were specific to calcium montmorillonite clay found in southern California.

The benefits of calcium montmorillonite clay are due to the mineral content or trace elements which are vital to the cellular functions of all forms of living creatures. Perfect health can only be obtained by a diet which supplies a proper balance of essential nutrients. Trace mineral elements are necessary for vitamins and enzymes to function. Without enzymes the body can not activate certain chemical processes like digestion or the synthesis of proteins within cells. For example:

  • A trace of Copper is needed for the synthesis of hemoglobin.
  • A trace of Cobalt is needed to make vitamin B 12.
  • A trace of Zinc is needed by the pancreas to manufacture insulin.

However, modern agricultural practices jeopardize our health. Our farming techniques use the soil over and over for high yield mass production, depleting the soil and the crops of vital essential elements. As soil health declines, crop health falters and farmers become increasingly reliant upon synthetic petroleum-based fertilizers to artificially replenish the soil with nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium (NPK); only three essential elements.

The trade off for adding synthetic enhancers is that the living soil remains deprived of naturally occurring bacteria that produce nitrogen, thus the soil is dying and crops actually become dependent on artificial fertilizer to sustain life. Aquifers are now contaminated with nitrates that were leached from farmlands. The combination of leaching from rain and irrigation, overuse of the land, and chemical fertilizers deteriorates the level of nutrients in our soil. As a result, most of the food grown is deficient in trace mineral elements. The few trace mineral elements that remain are removed during processing, e.g., the milling of wheat.

These same crops are used in turn to feed the animals we use for food. Mass production rids these animals of their natural grazing habits, so animal feeds are needed to supplement or replace their natural food sources. The plant life used to create animal feed is deficient of naturally occurring trace elements, therefore, the animals are robbed of these life giving nutrients.

Studies have shown that there is a relationship between human malnutrition and the depletion of trace elements in soil. According to the USDA, we would have to eat 75 bowls spinach in order to get the same amount of iron as one bowl eaten in 1948. As a result, malnutrition exists in 57% of US citizens over the age of 65! To slow (and eventually reverse) this malnutrition trend, we need to look more closely at nature and learn a more complete picture of health.

Quality Calcium Montmorillonite clay from the Hebbard mine clay

Mineral deposits formed by igneous activity in bubbling mud pots have a calcium magnesium complex which can be activated by a +1 or -1 of a hydrogen or oxygen ion. Minerals are found throughout North America, however, the Hebbard mine clay deposit is found in a region where the rainfall is minimal, moisture is non-existent, and temperature consistently high. This combination of arid conditions keeps the ion in an 'open ion state' that is more usable. Deposits which are found in Northern areas where there is rain, snowfall and leaching are not as likely to be found in an 'open ion state', thereby being of lower quality and grade. The negative ion charge is best used by the body for detoxification purposes. All toxins are positively charged. In nature, opposites attract. Thus, the negative ions attract the toxin's positive ions, facilitating the movement of toxins through the kidneys or lymphatic system to a site of normal excretion of the toxins.

IonMin Clay can help to improve our health; from replenishing our soil with vital essential elements, to improving the vitality of our plant and animal foods, and by removing toxins from our bodies. Native Americans knew this. Animals instinctively know this. Scientific, medical, and agricultural research has proven this. Use life promoting Clay.

Calcium montmorillonite clays and animals

Dr. Quisenberry, from Texas A M, researched the beneficial effects of calcium montmorillonite clays when fed to many farm animals including horses, pigs, chickens, etc. Neva Jensen, a nationally known nutrition expert, wrote a book on IonMin Clay called "The Healing Power of Living Clay," explaining how the nutrients in certain clays are assimilated in our bodies. The US Department of Fish and Wildlife conducted similar studies on trout fish on the Snake River in Hagerman, Idaho revealing the same health promoting effects. All of these studies were specific to IonMin Clay.

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The Energy Exchange of Living Clay

By going back to our base physical components, it can be safely said that the physical body is built from multitudes of particles held together by electrical bonds. Electrical forces are what hold atoms and molecules together. Chemical bonds and reactions depend on these electrical forces. Therefore, all chemical reactions are, in essence, reorganizations of electrical forces, which continue to be vital at body levels, i.e., tissues and organs. When this is all taken into account, a living organism is shown to be an extremely intricate electrical system (Gibson and Gibson 1987).

During illness, the vital force is weak and incapable of supporting the body and its functions. In health, however, the opposite occurs: the force is strong and is able to counteract sickness and decay. What keeps the immune system running is the energy that feeds it, the substance of life. The body will not run well, or will at least run with all sorts of mechanical problems, when there is no energy to support it.

Therefore, in order to create health, the body must be stimulated and re-stimulated by another working energy, like clay.

The best-known characteristic of clay is that it "acts as needed". Clay is said to propel the immune system to find a new healthy balance. Reactions are not forced, but rather triggered into effect as they are needed. To put it into other words, clay simply strengthens the body to a point of higher resistance. In this way, the body's natural immune system has an improved chance of restoring and maintaining health.

Note from Shirley:

Note from ShirleyI use Terramin clay in my drinking water everyday and also add it to my dog's food and drinking water. I sprinkle one or two tablespoons of red desert calcium montmorillonite clay into a quart of water . (I use ion-microwater (alkaline, live water). Unlike the pascalite or bentonite clay, Terramin clay is not gritty and is pretty tasteless. Clay has done wonders for my health.

I also add clay to my bath water and use Terrabathe Soaking Clay and use about 3 to 5 cups in my bath water. To avoid creating clumps, I sprinkle clay over the hot water and let it stand without stirring. Within 5 minutes or so, the clay will have dissolved into the water and sank at the bottom. Stirring clay in water before it has a chance to dissolves on its own will inevitably create clumps which will be difficult to dissolve.

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Internal/External Uses

For healing and therapeutic purposes, clay may be used externally and orally. Eating clay by dissolving it in water can be a wonder working cure. (However, not all clays are safe to eat. For details, see Eeny, Meeny, Miny—Montmorillonite). Applied in poultices and compresses, clay provides numerous benefits. It can heal sores and ulcers and aid in the rebuilding of healthy tissues and cells, and even of fractured bones and vertebrae.

Clay (together with lemon) acts on capillaries, liberating them, dissolving crystals and “flakes. Its natural tendency is to absorb toxins. For example, it is useful in neutralizing intoxication caused by poisonous mushrooms and chemical acids.

Taken orally, clay initiates a many-pronged effect. In cases of organic disorders, its intense activity eliminates and destroys unhealthy cells and activates the rebuilding of healthy ones. Besides the colloidal properties of clay, it acts as a cleansing agent eliminating all noxious substances. The same sedating, relaxing, absorbing and healing action is seen in treatment of the inflammation of the intestines as well as amoebic and other types of dysentery.

All this is the ‘direct action,’ or the immediate action of clay on the digestive channel. But clay activity goes much further: clay not only cures minor problems, such as diarrhea and constipation through local application; it acts on all the organs—on the whole organism. Everything unhealthy, that emits negative radiations is irresistibly attracted to clay and becomes subject to immediate elimination.

For true healing to occur in a malfunctioning (or partially-functioning) organ, a remedy must do more than supply a lacking substance. Clay goes the extra mile by stimulating the deficient organ, thereby restoring the failing organ back to health.

Alchemy of Elements

Clay is an effective agent for an extensive list of ailments—too many to elucidate upon in the scope of this project. For this reason, please follow our “quick reference list and links to further reading on any specific topic. Moreover, an analysis of its composition is not sufficient to explain the miraculous results it produces. Wherever there is a deficiency, clay seems to supply the needed substance, regardless of whether or not the clay itself is rich in that substance. Clay does more than restore a particular substance lacking in the body. Where synthetic substances (i.e., medications) may act this way, clay does more than just remedy a particular deficiency.

One of clay’s peculiarities is based on its physical-chemical domination. From a thermo-dynamic point of view, we must admit that clay cannot be the sole source of energy of the phenomena it produces. Clay is effective through a dynamic presence far more significant than a mere consideration of the substances it contains. It’s the alchemy of elements that enables it to act as a catalyst, rather than an agent in itself. This is because clay is a living substance. Clay is “alive.

Awaken Your Extraordinary Energy Resources

Clay receives vital energies from sun, air, and waters, making it a powerful agent of stimulation, transformation and transmission of energy. As every filing from a magnet maintains its properties, every parcel of clay retains a considerable amount of energy of our planet’s large and powerful magnetic entity. This radioactive action (def.: emission and propagation and emission of energy in the form of rays or waves) transmits extraordinary strength to an organism and helps rebuild vital potential by liberating its latent energy. We all possess extraordinary energy resources that normally remain dormant. Clay awakens them!

It would be presumptuous to attempt a precise and concrete explanation of the basic action of clay. Among the properties to which we can attribute its effect is radioactivity. Clay is radioactive to a degree (as is everything), but this radioactivity is generally imperceptible to the testing apparatus at present used in laboratories. Some mud's are an exception.

Radio-esthetically, the matter has been extensively discussed. Scientists differ widely as to the significance of this radioactivity in clay. The different compositions of clays further complicate this phenomenon.

It seems that clay has, among other properties, that of either stimulating a deficiency or absorbing an excess in the radioactivity of the body on which it is applied. On an organism that has suffered and still retains the radiations of radium (or any other intensive radioactive source), the radioactivity is first enhanced and then absorbed. Clay could, in this way, ensure the protection of organisms over-exposed to atomic radiations. This radioactive effect has been researched: today, when everyone is forcibly submitted to many artificially provoked radioactive aggressions, such as dust in the atmosphere from bomb testing, everything increasing this danger should be avoided. Experiments made with the Geiger encounter have demonstrated that dry clay absorbs a very important part of this surrounding radioactivity.

Clay minerals are found in various proportions to produce the great diversity of clays in nature. The mixture of elements accounts for the various colors of the clays created by the predominant mineral contained in it.

Clay is a plentiful material: any soil sample may contain a few clay particles. Clay’s mineral properties establish the size of the clay particle. Clay minerals are silicate crystals that are so fine-grained they’re really micro crystals, meaning that they’re easily absorbed by the human body.

In general, clays contain about fifteen minerals, and many more trace minerals. In the basic fifteen minerals, a typical element such as magnesium may be the dominant component. It can be replaced by aluminum or possibly iron, or any single mineral substance since it becomes an active or “rotating ion, which creates an energy field around it. This occurs as the molecules of a single mineral break into its simpler constituents, or as two interacting minerals exchange a portion of their constituents.

Any of the basic groups may be replaced by another substance until the mineral structure is essentially balanced electrically. The extent to which the clay mineral ions become active determines the clay’s classification as “living clay. This may be accomplished by the addition of a molecule of water if the clay mineral has been created in such a way as to contain a charge. Living clays have not been chemically treated in any way.

Eeny, Meeny, Miny—Montmorillonite

To reap the all of clay’s wonder-working benefits, take clay that meets the stringent U.S. federal purity standards for microbial limits, absence of pathogens, absence of adulteration, and product consistency. Most clay sold in health food stores (in a dietary supplement section) should be safe for consumption, but always ask a customer service representative if you’re not certain. Both Montmorillonite and Bentonite clays belong to the Smectite family, which is characterized by its expandable properties; however, Montmorillonite is purer, more complex clay with greater exchange capacities. Its ability to adsorb and absorb toxins makes it the most preferred species of edible clay.

The Healing Power of Hydro-Thermally Produced Living Clay
Dextreit, Raymond; “Our Earth, Our Cure; © 1974 by swan House Publishing Co.; ISBN 0-013010-07-3
[i] Merriam Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary, Tenth Edition; Copyright ©1994 by Merriam-Webster Inc.
[ii] Ibid
iii Knishinsky, Ran; “The Clay Cure, ‘Natural Healing from the Earth; p. 15.

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Uses of Clay Today

No material extracted from the earth is put to a wider variety of uses than clay, and no material except flint has been used longer. Clays differ widely in their effectiveness. The red montmorillonite clay of the smectite group remains an effective favorite for human use, because it has been hydro-thermally altered and seasoned in the arid desert.

Using clay for healing is a profound experience. Applying cooled or warmed clay locally on external body tissue has a cleansing, and healing effect. Inflammation and pain soon diminish with clay applications. Toxicity is never evident when using the living clay either internally or externally. The internal use of clay for ulcerated or irritated conditions of the stomach, bowels, colon or bladder can give noticeable relief. Over-acidity in the tissue of these organs can be corrected with the use of clay.

Diets generally are lacking essential trace minerals and micronutrients. When living clay is used with foods and exposed to gastric juices, the nutritional benefits of the clay’s trace minerals are accentuated. Living clays have an abundance of negatively charged ions. As a molecular constituent carries an electrical charge, it creates movement and interchange of positively charged ions. This phenomena is essential to all metabolic processes in the human body.

Applications (according to research and the manufacturer's instructions)
  • Brush Teeth: Astringent to gums, removes tartar, controls bleeding gums, pyorrhea.
  • Facial Pack: Moisten clay to a smooth paste (using approximately 50% water) and spread evenly over entire face; let dry twenty minutes, then remove with warm water. Follow with moisture cream.
  • Acne, Pimples: Use facial pack daily; take 1 tsp. powdered clay or eight tablets internally each day.
  • Skin Condition: Make paste with water and cover affected area. Excellent for warts, athletes foot, yeast fungus, jock itch, ringworm, sunburns, scalp, pimples, cuts, staph around fingernails, boils, poison ivy, cold sores, canker sores, and shingles.
  • Internal Uses: Colitis, diarrhea, hemorrhoids, stomach ulcers, or any abnormal condition of the alimentary canal responds well to the use of clay internally.
  • Surgery: The use of clay internally before and after surgery gives remarkable benefits.
  • Allergy: It has been observed some food allergies were benefited by clay. Experiment by using the clay with the known food allergen. Then eat the food allergen, omitting the clay, and observe the response.
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Calcium Montmorillonite TerraPond and Koi Fish

Koi Fish TerraPond is an all-natural product that is recognized by most Koi breeders as the foremost product to introduce minerals and nutrients to your precious Koi. This introduction can be done through your pond water as the Koi will absorb the minerals and nutrients through their skin ( TerraPond dissolves to micro fine size particles), through their gills, as well as ingesting directly by eating the TerraPond. This results in your fish achieving their true potential. Additionally, TerraPond performs wonders by purifying, clarifying and treating your water.

TerraPond is the purest form of Calcium Montmorillonite clay in the world. It is mined from a unique deposit in the United States. This rare deposit was formed millions of years ago when the Colorado River carried these minerals from the Rocky Mountains to the present day site of California Earth Minerals mining operations.

TerraPond improves your Koi's immune system through nutrition and detoxification. It helps by eliminating waste products, bacteria and decomposed organic matter in the water. When these particulates are absorbed and safely removed, it results in healthy fish and clear pond water.

TerraPond is also a powerful and effective treatment for water gardens, golf course waterways, lakes and ponds where clarity and purity is an important environmental concern. It offsets the effects of Chlorine chemical fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides, fungicides, heavy metals and toxic substances potentially harmful to local water supplies.

TerraPond -- in both powdered and premium hand selected rock forms -- works its wonders through a natural magnetic process. All toxins and decomposed organic materials in nature are positively charged. The magnetic attraction immediately begins when negatively charged TerraPond is introduced into your pond water and begins the micro-encapsulation process. This electrical ion exchange process is also referred to as "flocculation."

As a result, the electrically bonded particles are larger in size and weight. In Koi ponds, this increased mass then becomes filterable in most bio filter systems. In natural ponds (non-filtered) or larger lake environments (where the recommended application of TerraPond is in powdered form), these enlarged and heavier particles sink to the pond floor and safely decompose. This process is very similar to leaves dropping in the forest and decomposing/composting over time.

According to Japanese Koi breeders, natural clay-lined ponds provide the very best Koi environment. Clay provides better health, conformation, vitality, coloration, stronger immune systems, improved digestion and longer life. As a Koi hobbyist, when your clay choice is TerraPond, your fish will enjoy the very best environment you can provide.

When TerraPond, in its natural rock form is first introduced into your Koi pond, you can look forward to some interesting and enjoyable results. When the rock enters the water, it begins to bubble and slowly "melt." Some clouding then occurs. The clouding and bubbles will provoke your fishes' interest and curiosity.

The boldest fish may approach the rock and begin to swim through the cloud. It may also nibble at the rock as it melts. Your fish are ingesting nutrients through this activity. Little by little, other fish will want to join in on this new game.

Once the fish have had this experience, they learn to look forward to a TerraPond rock treat. Very much like a pet treat, Koi seem to enjoy the experience of playing and nibbling at the substance. As a result of this Koi play activity, your fish will receive the highest form of nutrients through direct ingestion.

TerraPond is an edible, organic clay compound that when eaten, delivers nutrients and trace elements that benefit the health, vitality, longevity and appearance of your fish. It is a rare and pure form of Calcium Montmorillonite (Bentonite). TerraPond was formed millions of years ago, when glacial melt carved through today's Rocky Mountains in the western U.S. Favorable properties, brought boiling water to the surface of the earth creating extensive pools of bubbling mud. These bubbling pools churn the calcium montmorillonite adding beneficial natural minerals.