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The History of Clays

Many generations before ours have believed in the powers of clay, which has been widely used for centuries, with the first recorded studies on the medicinal uses in 60 BC by the Romans. Most early research focused on the physical properties of clay minerals, and the benefit to the digestion or protection, cleansing and physical regeneration of the skin. The Egyptian pharmacopoeia. from the time of the pharaohs, included Nubian clay; it was used for mummifying corpses because the Egyptians knew of its purifying qualities and it is almost certain that these were not reserved solely for the dead! It has amazing healing powers, which have lain undiscovered for a long time. 


The healing powers and virtues of clay are being rediscovered in the last century. This naturally occurring product has the ability to repair damaged tissues, at the same time eliminating accumulated toxins from the body.  The great German naturopaths, Kneipp, Kuhn, Just and Felke have advocated the use of clay within the context of natural medicine and studies have been done based on its natural antibacterial properties and its use in the treatment of Buruli ulcers. (Buruli ulcer is a flesh-eating disease that is borne by Mycobacterium ulcerans, a bacterium related to leprosy and tuberculosis. Mycobacterium ulcerans produces a lipid toxin, mycolactone, which destroys the fatty tissues under the skin (George et al., 1998; 2002).  The infection is immuno-suppressant, so no pain is felt as the mycobacterium grows and destroys adipocytes (fat tissue). No white blood cells are called to attack the disease, so no inflammation occurs.) 


In this age of increased pollution and chemical products, Argiletz active clay is a natural way of wellbeing, beauty and vitality. Its reputed ability to rebalance a weakened system is supported by European medical reports and discussed by Raymond Dextreit in "The healing power of clay" 

The clay known as "argile" can be green, red, yellow, pink, white etc. each one has its own unique properties and it is important to choose the one which best suits the condition of the persons' skin. They can all be used for face masks, cleansers, body masks and wraps. 

  • GREENHealing. For tissue repair. It draws toxins from the skin when used as a poultice, including acne and can also be used in the bath for excessive perspiration or detoxification. Very cleansing and firming when applied as a beauty mask for face and body. 
  • REDHigh in iron oxide and helpful for broken capillaries and bags under the eyes. Ideal for mature, tired, dehydrated and stressed skin. This clay is oilier than the others.
  • PINK/ROSEFor sensitive skin. Tissue firming particularly the bust, thighs, stomach and upper arms. Skin softening. Apply as an all over mask for a pampering treat.
  • YELLOW: Has similar properties to green clay, however, is gentler in its action. For sun-damaged, couperose and fatigued skin.
  • WHITE: For young, sensitive and dry skins. This clay absorbs odour so is ideal for a dusting powder for the feet, under the arms and breasts, as well as the groin and between the thighs when perspiration is due to hormonal and thyroid problems. Can also be used for Face masks. It may be used as a hair pack by mixing with water prior to shampoo. It may alleviate dry scalp disorders as well as greasy hair problems. 

References

Killer Clays!  
Natural antibacterial clay minerals
L. B. Williams, M. Holland, D.D. Eberl, T. Brunet and L. Brunet de Courrsou
Dept. Geological Sciences, Arizona State UniversityTempeAZ 85281 USA
U.S.
 Geological Survey, 3215 Marine St.BoulderCO 80303-1066 USA
Chateau de la Beteesche, 44780 MissillacFrance