Activated Charcoal: Everything to know about the new MVP of wellness

Wish you could find a magic potion that would clean your pores, whiten your teeth and cure your hangover all at the same time? You may need to look no further than activated charcoal. It seems that there hasn't been such a multipurpose ingredient since coconut oil, which is saying a lot! Like many health trends, it may be on everyone's radar while very few people actually know what it is and how it works.

To put it simply - activated charcoal is literally charcoal that is activated with heat.

According to holistic nutritionist and founder of NaturallySavvy.com  Andrea Donsky, "It is charcoal (or pure carbon) made from sources like coconut shells, bamboo, and wood, and is processed, or 'activated' with heat at high temperatures." The heat creates a porous surface that is highly absorbent, allowing it to trap chemicals and toxins within the body. "The true value of activated charcoal lies in its ability to remove toxins from your body. It chemically binds other substances to its surface and can absorb thousands of times its own weight," says Nick McNaught, owner of elite Toronto-based meal delivery service, Fuel Foods.

It turns out that AC is actually not a new health trend at all. In fact, people having been using it for centuries. "Its use dates back as far as 1550 BC," says Andrea. Back then, she explains, the natural remedy was used for purely medicinal purposes, "It was used as a remedy for drug overdoses, snake venoms, bacteria, viruses and household poisonings, and stops the toxins from spreading in the body."

The detox benefits are by far it's biggest claim to fame. Hospitals still administer doses of charcoal in instances of overdoses and poisonings, and now smaller amounts are being used in many health products. Activated charcoal can be bought in capsule or powder form, but the most popular way to consume it is in a cold-pressed juice. Nick's food company just introduced a new line of juices, including, yes, a charcoal option. "Fuel Foods created 'Charcool', an activated charcoal tonic that tastes like lemonade, but has major detoxifying benefits." It claims to draws toxins out of your body and improves organ function, which can give you more energy and better overall health. #Goals.

According to Andrea, its effects range from helping with stomach pains and bloating to helping reduce blood pressure, and it's also known to cure hangovers. "Activated charcoal adsorbs the by-products in foods that cause gas therefore counteracting bloating, gas and diarrhea. It can also help with hangovers by adsorbing the by-products of alcohol rather than the alcohol itself (i.e. additives, artificial sweeteners, colours, etc)."

Lately, people have also been incorporating AC into their beauty routines. Just as the charcoal removes toxins from our bodies – it does the same when applied to the skin, making it a popular ingredient in skin masks and acne treatments. It also can help control body odour, so some are using it in their natural deodorants.  According to Andrea, one of the most popular uses is as a tooth whitener, explaining that it adsorbs plaque as well as removes stains. But her reco also comes with a disclaimer, "It is important to note that it is very messy so if you would like to try it, ensure you are wearing old clothes and wipe your sink right away or it can leave a stain." Duly noted.

However, AC as a remedy is not without its controversy.  Charcoal may be absorbent but it's not highly intelligent – as in, it doesn't know the difference between removing toxins and removing nutrients. This can be an issue for those who drink charcoal while taking medication and supplements, explains Nick, "It binds to everything, good and bad and pulls everything out together. Timing and dose are key with your consumption. You shouldn't have your activated charcoal beverage within two hours of eating, taking medication, or supplements." Another thing to consider, according to Andrea, is the quality of the product. "Like anything you can get good and not-so-good types of activated charcoal. Experts suggest looking for brands that use coconut shells or identified wood species as its base." Finally, with something as potent as the activated charcoal – taking a minimal approach is key. "I would caution about using it daily, rather use it once a week or when needed," adds Andrea. And Nick agrees saying, "Medical studies have shown that in appropriate small doses it is completely safe. Obviously a large dose is very bad and should be avoided." As with everything, take caution with new lifestyle changes and ask your doctor if you're not sure it's right for you.

Happy sipping!