About raw clay

HOW DOES CLAY WORK?

All clays have basically the same physical properties that vary in intensity depending on the molecular composition and sturcture. The molecular composition, more speciffically the mineral components, will also gives a specific color to the clay (See our different clay colors). Some clays will appear more interesting for therapeutic purposes when others will have properties more appreciated in construction (bentonite for the concrete), potery, porcelaine (with white kaolin), etc...

When we study clay powder samples under a microscope, each grains looks like layers stacked up one on to the others. This layered structure gives the plastic properties of clay and its ability to cover a surface. The layers, when hydrated, can slide one on to the others, allowing them to expend or retract themselves. This plastic ability stops as soon as the clay dries.

The mineral composition of the layers will create the specific polarity to the clay. Basically, to make things simple and understanble, the charge of the layers themselves is negative when the charge in the space between each layer is positive.

This specific polarity, balance between negative and positive charges, gives the binding (fixing) properties of the clay, that are also known as ABsorption and ADsorption properties. Just like a sponge, clay can capture in its own cellullar structure molecules and substances. This explains its power in absorbing liquids and grease, and neutralizing odors. Clay can also attract molecules or organisms just like a magnet. The substances in this case will stick outside of the structure. This property explains its capacity to neutralize microbes, bacteria, viruses, dead cells and other substances like chemicals for example.

Depending on the size of the molecule, the attraction will be done on 3 different levels:

1) Simple ions will be captured inside the layers themselves

3) Macromolecules will stay at the periphery of the layers.

This is these fixing properties that make clays interesting on the therapeutic level. But as we already said, not all clays can be used for this purpose as, depending on their mineral composition and structure, some clays are very toxic for the body. For more safetiness, look for pharmaceutical grade and food grade certified. For living clay, you need to look for clays that are raw, sun-dried, non ionized and free of any additives, the quality that our provider Argiletz deliver for over 50 years

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