(NaturalNews) Since the popularity of calcium bentonite clays have increased, misconceptions about how they work have become rampant resulting in many erroneous beliefs. I would like to dismiss some of these common misconceptions.

1. MYTH: It is not safe to brush my teeth with clay each day and pack my gums weekly if I have a variety of dental fillings.

FALSE. *Clay is safe for dental hygiene uses and will not affect the dental restorative materials. Because of the diversity of chemicals and chemical components going through our oral cavities, not to mention widely fluctuating pH readings, the dental materials are developed not to break down or dissolve when exposed to different substances. Be sure to use a finely milled, non-gritty clay for brushing. *Answer provided by Dr. Pentti Nupponen DMD

2. MYTH: Calcium bentonite clay draws moisture from the body and causes constipation.

FALSE. When calcium bentonite clay is fully hydrated it is extremely slick. Clay in and of itself does not cause constipation.

If you experience constipation when you begin taking clay, it is because the clay is pulling out the old mucoid, putrefied plaque that is lodged in the lower colon. As it cleanses the colon, this build up is thrown into the colon canal to be discharged from the body. If there is a lot of build up present, constipation can occur. This is generally resolved within a few days. If you experience constipation do whatever you need to do to keep your janitorial services working during this time. Take Smooth Move tea, over the counter magnesium tablets or a laxative. It is important to drink lots of water when taking clay to help flush out the toxins and soften the old fecal matter.

3. MYTH: Draining bath clay will stop up my septic system.

FALSE. Under normal conditions clay will not stop up your septic system. If your septic system was designed adequately and is working properly, the heavier clay particles will never get to the leach field. They'll settle by their own weight to the bottom of the septic tank compartments. It would take many years of clay baths before significant build up would dictate tank pumping. However, it is important to not flush lumps of clay down the drain.

4. MYTH: Calcium bentonite clay must be taken on an empty stomach.

FALSE. When first starting a cleanse it is sometimes recommended to take it on an empty stomach so it can cleanse better without interference from food. However, it may be taken at any time, on its own or mixed with food or drinks. It varies with your needs. If eating rich high fat foods or experiencing indigestion, you may want some before and after eating.

5. MYTH: All calcium bentonites are safe for internal use.

FALSE. It is important to know your clays. Some clays are perfect for both internal and external use, while other clays can be acidic or immature, or even dirty and contaminated. Ask for proof of purity, pH levels and for a non-gritty clay.

Help set the record straight on this multi-beneficial gift from Mother Earth. Now, go spread some good information.

Sources for this article include:

Raymond Dextreit, Earth Cures (Citadel, 2000)

Michel Abehsera, The Healing Clay (Lyle Stuart, 1986)

Ran Knishinsky, The Clay Cure (Healing Arts Press, 1998)

Perry A~ Arledge, "Criteria for Selecting a Quality Healing Clay," AboutClay.com, http://aboutclay.com/info/Articles/criteria_for_selecting_clay.htm

About the author:
Perry A~ is the author of Living Clay: Nature’s Own Miracle Cure and a student in the study of Bentonite Clays since the early 1990’s. For more educational information on Bentonite Clays go to www.AboutClay.com or
www.LivingClayBook.com.