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wild animals, and some people, develop 'pica,’ a craving to eat earth,
when ill. The clay assuages diarrhea and binds to many poisons. Among
the most famous clay-eaters are the parrots of the Amazon. Scarlet
macaws, blue and gold macaws, and hosts of smaller birds excavate the
best clay the riverbank. Parrots' regular diet is tree seeds, and when
the trees defend their seeds with toxins, the clay acts as a natural
buffer to the toxins.
Ranchers have known
for years that sickly cattle would take themselves across the clay
banks and feed on them until their health returned. Free-ranging
cattle dig into the sub-soils to access clay.
We have all seen and
heard stories of animals eating dirt or rolling in dirt. There is a
reason. They are seeking certain natural trace minerals they need for
their diet. Clay is known as a natural source of many trace minerals.
Bentonite clay is known for its ability to detox, cleanse and
stimulate circulation. Indians have known about its healing qualities
and have used it for centuries.
This simple natural
substance can help heal your animals from scrapes and digestive
troubles. Bentonite clay can clean the digestive track so that animals
can better absorb and benefit from the nutrients in their food. It is
also a natural vermifuge (wormer) and removes intestinal parasites
without harmful chemicals. Benefits include an increase in energy,
shinier coats and healthier pets.
It is also perfect
for skin disorders such as mange, cuts and abrasions, sprains or
rashes. The clay acts as an analgesic, quickly reducing the pain of
itching, speeding the healing process and reducing the build up of
scar tissue. Plus, if the animal licks the clay, it won’t hurt like
many medications will.
Internally, it
cleanses the digestive track of positively charged ions, which are
bacteria, viruses and fungals as well as removing parasites. By
assisting the body in detoxing, it aids the liver and kidneys, which
are greatly overworked by toxins.
Hydrated clay is the
best for burns, cuts, sprains, bruises and even removes warts. A
mixture of clay with arrowroot and cornstarch (all natural
ingredients) absorbs odors while soothing the skin. Clay can also be
used for insect bites like fire ants and bees. It immediately begins
pulling out the poisons.
Many Studies have
shown the benefits of clay for animals. So use it. They will thank you
for it! Needless to say, there are many of these benefits for people
too.
Madeleine
Mariani, ND, PhD is a doctor of Naturopathy based in Encino, CA.
Contact her at
vintagedustyrose@aol.com.
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