EC Nutrition

Minerals are imperative for humanity. As a natural source of all minerals, clays can be beneficial to human health. The use of clay minerals for food, medicinal purposes, in pharmaceutical formulations, spas, beauty treatments is almost old as mankind. Clay has no toxic elements in concentrations that can harm a human body. Bentonite, montmorillonite, pascalite and other types of natural clays were applicable since prehistoric times. Concerning the physical and chemical composition of bentonite clay, it was useful as a cleaning agent for humans, mammals, birds, reptiles and insects. The aim of this work is examination of the clay applications in order to improve human health. The application of characterization analyses and thermal treatment were used for the characterization of bentonite clay, sampled from Prisjan, a village in Serbia. Considering historical development of clay, a relationship between clay and organic matter, the impact of clay on life development cycle, this work examines different methods of clay applications to improve our lives.

Keywords: Application; Clay; Bentonite; Humans; Health

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