Zeolite

Zeolite Zeolite, also known as Clinoptilolite, is a naturally occurring complex crystal of minerals discovered about 200 years ago. Zeolite exists in nature in a unique crystalline form that is mainly made up of aluminium and silicon compounds. However, it also holds various other minerals in smaller amounts like potassium, calcium, sodium, and so on.¹^,²

Zeolite has an excellent ability to absorb water, ions, and other molecules. Therefore, it can absorb not only water, but also toxic elements and chemicals. Its health benefits are due to this reason, its content of minerals, and its ability to bind with certain chemicals.¹^,²

The healthcare industry, and industry in general, are still exploring its various usages. Zeolite has now also found its place in water treatment, agriculture, and veterinary medicine. Zeolite is now increasingly available as health supplements for use in humans, too.²^,³

Health Benefits of Zeolite

Detoxification

Zeolite acts as reversible nano pumps, with the ability to bind to various compounds. Therefore, because Zeolite can attach to numerous toxins, it makes Zeolite especially good for improving health and detoxification. Although researchers are still studying its role in detoxification, Zeolite can absorb harmful chemicals, heavy metals, and much more, thereby helping people to stay healthy. Researchers are also looking into the role of Zeolite in the treatment of poisoning due to medications, heavy metals, radiation, industrial wastes, and so on.⁴^,⁵
Manage Diarrhea, as Zeolite Can Absorb Lots of Moisture and Toxins

Since Zeolite can absorb moisture and toxins, many researchers have explored its role in managing diarrhea. There are reports that in Cuba, drugs containing Zeolite, have been approved to control diarrhea; however, data about its efficacy is not currently available.⁶
Donor of Trace Elements

Trace elements are challenging to get via diet, and the role of many of them is still not fully understood by science. Researchers believe that Zeolite can assist by providing these trace elements which can also be beneficial for bone health.⁷
Supporting Microbiota and Enhancing Gastrointestinal Health

Numerous experimental studies show that consumption of Zeolite can alter gut microbiota and help protect them. Zeolite can also help with gastrointestinal health by binding with various biologically active compounds. Researchers believe that in this way, Zeolite can exert wide-ranging health benefits.⁷
Immunomodulation

It is a subject of enormous research, as experiments show that Zeolite can considerably increase macrophages in the peritoneum. That means that consumption of Zeolite can help boost local gastrointestinal defences, and have wide-ranging effects on immunity in general.¹ Another study demonstrated that Zeolite could even bind histamines, therefore preventing specific allergies and modifying other body functions.⁸Some recommend consumption of Zeolite for the treatment and management of herpes, hangover, and for removing heavy metals from the body. However, clinical data supporting these uses, is lacking.⁶

When it comes to the daily dosage of zeolite, there is no established dosage. However, most experts think that 10 to 15gm a day of zeolite powder, taken in equally divided doses up to three time daily is enough.

It is also worth noting that there are many sub-types of zeolites, like clinoptilolite, analcime, phillipsite, faujasite, erionite. Of the different types of Zeolite, Clinoptilolite is most commonly used for therapeutic use.

The micronized form of Zeolite Clinoptilolite (M-ZC) is a kind of clinoptilolite that is broken down into smaller particles, this increases its certain beneficial properties. M-ZC has better detoxifying effect, anti-inflammatory properties, and antioxidant effect.⁹

Side Effects of Zeolites

Zeolite seems to be completely safe when ingested, as it is primarily made up of various minerals and trace elements plus, Zeolite can absorb toxins. However, there are some fibrous types of zeolite, found naturally, from some deposits, that may be harmful to health when inhaled. There are reports that state that the inhalation of fibrous zeolites may cause mesothelioma.¹⁰

Properties

Allergies⁴^,⁵
Anti-Inflammatory⁸
Diarrhea⁶
Digestive Function⁷
High/Good Levels of Calcium¹
High/Good Levels of Potassium¹
Immune Booster⁸
Toxin Removal⁴^,⁵^,⁹

References