We are constantly exposed to thousands of toxins coming from all directions: the air we breathe, the water we drink, the foods we eat and the immediate environment in which we live and work. The question is how to detoxify effectively, safely and economically, because the process needs to be done repeatedly.

First thing is to discuss the whole detoxification process with a personal health care practitioner to make sure it is safe to proceed; especially those taking prescription medications. There are several ways to detoxify, including prescription medicines, herbal supplements and clay baths. Calcium bentonite clays have been used and researched for a very long time and are one of the best vehicles for the detoxification and healing process.

First fill a bath tub with water heated to 102-to-104F. Premix a half-cup of clay (the first time) in a blender, pour it into the bathtub and mix well with the tub water. Carefully step into the tub. Clay water is very slippery, so be careful. Keep the tub water from getting into the eyes, nose, ears and mouth. Immerse the body into the water and enjoy the wonderful feeling of being in a warm “mud” bath. The first time, stay only 10 or 15 minutes. Once the time is up, enlist some help to get out of the tub. Do not do this alone. Extend the tub times as it becomes more familiar. Once done, drink organic vegetable juices such as tomato to put electrolytes back into the body. Shower off the clay, cover up and stay warm.

To clean the tub, use a pair of rubber gloves and drain the tub slowly, keeping the clay from running out. Collect all the used, toxic clay into a strong plastic bag and set it in an outside garbage container. The toxic fumes from used clay will vaporize in the house, if left indoors.

Thicker, pre-mixed clay can be used on skin issues, rejuvenating with a 20-minute clay facial. The skin gets tighter, wrinkles disappear and we feel and look younger.

Pentti J. Nupponen, DMD, MAGD, FIND, CNC, MIAOMT, is the owner of DermaClay LLC and Holistic & Cosmetic Dentistry, 207 Market St., Halifax, PA. For appointments, call 717-896-3911 or 800-929-2876. For more information, visit DermaClay.com and HalifaxDentistry.com.