What is Activated Charcoal?
Activated charcoal is a form of carbon that has been treated with oxygen to make it highly porous and able to absorb toxins and chemicals. It has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for a variety of ailments, including upset stomach, gas, and bloating. Today, it is commonly found in over-the-counter products like toothpaste, face masks, and supplements.
The Benefits of Activated Charcoal
One of the main benefits of activated charcoal is its ability to absorb toxins and chemicals. This makes it an effective treatment for poisoning and drug overdoses. It is also commonly used as a digestive aid, as it can help relieve gas, bloating, and indigestion. In addition, activated charcoal is often used in beauty products due to its ability to draw out impurities from the skin. It is also used as a teeth whitener, as it can remove stains from the surface of teeth.
Activated Charcoal at Rite Aid
Rite Aid is a popular pharmacy chain that offers a variety of health and wellness products, including activated charcoal. They carry a range of activated charcoal products, including supplements, face masks, and toothpaste. One of the most popular activated charcoal products at Rite Aid is their activated charcoal toothpaste. This toothpaste is designed to whiten teeth and freshen breath, while also helping to remove plaque and prevent cavities.
How to Use Activated Charcoal
Activated charcoal can be used in a variety of ways, depending on the product you are using. For example, if you are using activated charcoal supplements, you would typically take them orally with a glass of water. If you are using an activated charcoal face mask, you would apply it to your face and leave it on for a certain amount of time before rinsing it off. Activated charcoal toothpaste is used just like regular toothpaste. Simply apply a pea-sized amount to your toothbrush and brush your teeth as you normally would.
Precautions and Side Effects
While activated charcoal is generally considered safe, there are some precautions and potential side effects to be aware of. For example, it can interfere with the absorption of certain medications, so it should be taken at least two hours before or after taking medication. In addition, activated charcoal can cause constipation, so it is important to drink plenty of water when using it. It can also cause black stools, which is a harmless but potentially alarming side effect.
Conclusion
Activated charcoal is a versatile and effective natural remedy that can be used for a variety of purposes, from treating poisoning to whitening teeth. Rite Aid offers a range of activated charcoal products that can be easily incorporated into your daily routine. As with any supplement or remedy, it is important to follow dosing instructions and be aware of potential side effects.