Activated charcoal is well known as a poison antidote as it absorbs most organic toxins, chemicals and poisons before they can harm the body. Some Emergency Rooms administer large doses of activated charcoal for certain types of poisoning. According to this article, activated charcoal should be taken as soon as possible after a poison is ingested and in a ratio of 8:1. In other words, if 1 gram of poison is ingested, 8 grams of charcoal should be taken. Some people also recommend a 10:1 ratio, or a general dose of 100 grams. There are no known side effects of charcoal, even in large doses. When in doubt, take a large dose, as even large doses are not harmful, but too small a dose is ineffective.

Activated charcoal is so effective that it is often used to remove chemical toxins from overdose of medicine from the body. Activated charcoal is able to do this because it:

1. Purifies the 6-8 liters of digestive fluids that are secreted daily which in turn helps remove foreign substances from the blood.
2. Absorbs the intoxicant substance and its metabolites that are excreted into the small intestine from the biliary (bile) tract, preventing their reabsorption.
3. Absorbs drugs that diffuse back into the stomach and intestines.
4. Decreases the detoxification work load of the liver

Activated charcoal can also be taken in small doses (10-20 grams a day) as part of a general detoxification program. Because of its ability to attract toxins of all kinds, activated charcoal can also be taken to help treat the flu, colds, digestive illness, and other types of ailments. Activated charcoal can also counteract the effects of Candida in the body and can help with intestinal complaints.

Charcoal is not known to be toxic, though it should not be taken within two hours of vitamins or medications because it will keep the body from absorbing them. Care should also be taken to find a high quality form of charcoal.

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