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Activated charcoal is a popular supplement known for its potential detoxifying properties. It is a fine black powder made from various sources like coconut shells, wood, or coal, and it is treated to become "activated," which means it has a highly porous surface. The porous structure allows activated charcoal to bind to certain toxins and chemicals, preventing their absorption into the body and facilitating their elimination.
Why Our Pure Activated Charcoal Capsule Works Quicker & Better
Pure Activated Charcoal with no fillers!
Adults (16+): 2 capsules, 3x daily, for nutritional use
Children 4-12 years: 1 capsule daily, for nutritional use
Children 12-16 years: 1 capsule 2x daily, for nutritional use
If a child or adult eats any poison like a poisonous plant, paraffin or pills, give 10 capsules immediately. Get them to hospital immediately!
Suitable for children over 4 years half of the dosage.
Ingredients as traditionally used for this supplement.
Activated charcoal powder 100% pure! No fillers
Activated Charcoal Powder: Detoxifying Properties
Toxin and Poison Ingestion: Activated charcoal is commonly used in emergency situations to treat certain types of poisoning or overdose. It works by adsorbing toxins in the gastrointestinal tract, preventing them from being absorbed into the bloodstream.
Water Filtration: Activated charcoal is employed in water treatment processes to adsorb impurities, contaminants, and pollutants. It is an effective method for purifying water, providing a cleaner and safer drinking supply.
Air Purification: Activated charcoal is used in air purifiers and filters to capture and remove odours, allergens, and airborne pollutants. It helps improve indoor air quality by adsorbing various volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
Gastrointestinal Issues: Some people use activated charcoal supplements to alleviate symptoms of gas, bloating, and indigestion. It is believed to adsorb excess gas in the digestive system, providing relief.
Teeth Whitening: Activated charcoal is a popular ingredient in certain toothpaste formulations and powders. It is claimed to help whiten teeth by adsorbing surface stains and plaque.
Skincare: Activated charcoal is found in skincare products such as face masks, cleansers, and soaps. It is believed to help draw out impurities, toxins, and excess oil from the skin, contributing to clearer and healthier-looking skin.
Mold Remediation: Activated charcoal can be used to adsorb mold spores and mycotoxins in indoor environments, contributing to mold remediation efforts.
Deodorization: Activated charcoal is used in various products like shoe insoles, refrigerator deodorizers, and air fresheners to adsorb and neutralize odours.
Digestive Cleanse: Some proponents suggest that activated charcoal can be used for detoxification and digestive cleansing. However, its efficacy for these purposes is a subject of debate in the medical community.
It's important to note that while activated charcoal has various uses, its consumption as a health supplement or remedy should be approached with caution. It can interact with medications and may not be suitable for long-term use without guidance from a healthcare professional. Additionally, its effectiveness for certain health claims is still an area of ongoing research.
Generally considered safe for short-term use in pregnant and breastfeeding women when taken at appropriate doses. However, it’s essential to exercise caution and consult with a healthcare professional before using any supplements during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
Activated charcoal is not absorbed by the body and stays in the gastrointestinal tract, where it adsorbs substances. As a result, it is unlikely to be absorbed into the bloodstream and affect the developing fetus. It’s important to note that while activated charcoal has potential benefits, it can also interfere with the absorption of certain medications, vitamins, and minerals.
Therefore, it’s essential to take activated charcoal supplements at least two hours apart from other medications and supplements.
Pregnant or breastfeeding women, use with care.
Protect from sunlight.
Store below 25°c
Activated Charcoal 100% pure Capsule 500mg.
Why Our Pure Activated Charcoal Capsule Works Quicker & Better
Why Our Powder is More Difficult to Work With
We use a pharmaceutical-grade activated charcoal powder with a particle size of 0–100 microns.
Summary
Comprehensive Explanation: Activated Charcoal
What it is:
Activated Charcoal (AC) is a highly processed, medical-grade form of carbon that has been treated at extremely high temperatures to create an enormous surface area filled with millions of microscopic pores. Just one gram of activated charcoal can have up to 3,000 m² of surface area, making it a natural adsorbent (binding surface) for toxins in the digestive tract.
It is completely inert and not absorbed into the bloodstream — meaning it works only in the gut, where it captures unwanted compounds such as mould toxins, Candida die-off aldehydes, gases, pesticides, and bile-bound chemicals, carrying them safely out in the stool.
How it works:
Unlike absorption (where a substance is taken inside), adsorption means toxins stick to the surface of charcoal. These toxins are held tightly in the pores and then carried safely out of the body through the stool. This makes AC a powerful gut-local detoxifier, preventing toxins from being reabsorbed into the bloodstream (interrupting enterohepatic recirculation).
How is Activated Charcoal Made?
Why it Works
What it binds:
AC is most effective for small, hydrophobic, and aromatic toxins — especially mycotoxins from mould (aflatoxins, ochratoxin A, zearalenone), aldehydes from Candida die-off, pesticides, drug residues, and bile-bound chemicals.
What it does not bind:
It is far less effective at binding large molecules (polysaccharides, proteins, whole Candida cells, parasites, worms, eggs) or very polar/ionic nutrients (vitamin C, B vitamins, amino acids, most minerals). These are too big or too water-soluble to fit into the charcoal pores, and they remain available for absorption.
Timing & action:
AC begins working immediately when it enters the gut. Because it is not absorbed into the bloodstream, its effect is 100% local. It remains active until excreted in the stool, usually within 12–24 hours.
What is retained vs excreted:
Excretion route:
Everything bound to AC is excreted in stool, which may turn dark or black. This is harmless and a normal sign that charcoal is carrying toxins out.
Comparison table of common essential oils (EOs) and how 100% pure Activated Charcoal (AC) capsules interact with them. Since essential oils are mostly small, lipophilic (fat-loving), volatile molecules (100–200 Da range), they are among the compounds most likely to be bound by AC. This explains why large doses of charcoal can reduce the effect of oils if taken together.
Comprehensive Table: What Activated Charcoal Binds vs Not
| Category | Example Molecules | Approx Size (MW / Physical Size) | AC Affinity | What Happens with AC (500 mg capsule) | Excreted vs Retained |
| Mycotoxins | Aflatoxin B1 (312 Da), Ochratoxin A (403 Da), Zearalenone (318 Da), Sterigmatocystin (324 Da) | Small, planar, <2 nm | High | Strong adsorption into micropores | Excreted (80–100%) |
| Trichothecenes | DON (296 Da), T-2 toxin (466 Da) | Small, polar | Moderate | Variable adsorption, pH-dependent | Partial excretion; partial absorption |
| Fumonisins | Fumonisin B1 (721 Da) | Larger, polar | Moderate | Partial adsorption depending on AC pore size | Mixed outcome |
| Candida by-products | Acetaldehyde (44 Da), aromatic aldehydes | Very small | High | Easily adsorbed | Excreted |
| Whole Candida cells | Yeast: 4–6 µm; Hyphae up to 20–50 µm | Micrometer scale (too big) | None | Cannot fit pores | Remain (cleared by immune system & stool bulk) |
| Parasites & worms | Protozoa 5–50 µm; Worm eggs 50–150 µm | Micrometer scale | None | Too large to adsorb | Remain (excreted mechanically) |
| Proteins & polysaccharides | β-glucans, mucilage, inulin | Thousands of Da, large | Very low | Too large to fit | Remain |
| Volatile oils & terpenes | Thymol, carvacrol, citral, cinnamaldehyde | 150–200 Da | High | Some adsorption | Partial excretion |
| Sterols | β-sitosterol (414 Da) | Small, lipophilic | High | Partially adsorbed | Partial excretion |
| Fat-soluble vitamins | A, D, E, K (328–472 Da) | Small, lipophilic | High | Can be adsorbed at higher doses | Partial excretion |
| Water-soluble vitamins | Vitamin C (176 Da), B vitamins (120–300 Da) | Small, polar, ionic | Low | Not adsorbed | Retained |
| Amino acids | Glutamine (146 Da), Taurine (125 Da), NAC (163 Da) | Small, polar | Low | Not adsorbed | Retained |
| Minerals (ionic) | Zinc gluconate, Se-glycinate, Mg²⁺, Na⁺ | Ionic | Low | Not adsorbed | Retained |
| Fulvic acid (comparison) | Fulvic fractions 500–2000 Da | Small, polar | Moderate | Some adsorbed, many act as “shuttles” | Mixed: part retained, part excreted |
Summary for Product Sheet
Key Notes
✨ In simple terms: Pure Activated Charcoal is excellent at binding essential oils—which is useful if the goal is detox, but it means that EO-based remedies should be spaced away from charcoal use.
General herbs we use in our products (not the essential oils, but the main herbal actives).
Because herbs are chemically diverse, I’ve grouped their representative actives (alkaloids, flavonoids, glycosides, terpenes, polysaccharides, etc.) and shown:
⚖️ Note: Percentages are approximate ranges based on polarity, molecular weight, and adsorption studies. They are useful for client education but not exact lab values.
General Herbs & Activated Charcoal 500mg Capsule
| Herb (common) | Representative Actives | MW/Size | AC Affinity | % Retained | % Excreted | Comments |
| African Potato (Hypoxis) | β-sitosterol glycosides | 400–600 Da | Moderate–High | 80–90% | 10–20% | Sterols partly bound; polysaccharides remain |
| Aloe | Aloin, aloe-emodin (anthraquinones) | ~418 Da | Moderate | 85–95% | 5–15% | Polysaccharides not affected |
| Andrographis | Andrographolide (diterpene lactone) | ~350 Da | Moderate | 85–95% | 5–15% | Glycosides absorbed normally |
| Barberry / Goldenseal | Berberine alkaloid | 336 Da | Moderate | 85–95% | 5–15% | Small fraction bound |
| Bearberry (Uva Ursi) | Arbutin glycoside | 272 Da | Low | 95–100% | 0–5% | Almost fully retained |
| Bilberry | Anthocyanins (glycosides) | 430–950 Da | Low–Moderate | 90–95% | 5–10% | Pigments mostly retained |
| Black Jack (Bidens) | Flavonoids, phenylpropanoids | 300–600 Da | Moderate | 85–95% | 5–15% | Minor flavonoid loss |
| Buchu | Pulegone, menthone (EOs) | 152–170 Da | High | 70–80% | 20–30% | Volatile oils strongly bound |
| Burdock Root | Arctiin (lignan), inulin | 534 Da; >1000 Da | Moderate | 85–95% | 5–15% | Inulin fiber fully retained |
| Calendula | Flavonoids, saponins | 300–900 Da | Low–Moderate | 90–98% | 2–10% | Saponins largely unaffected |
| Cancerbush (Sutherlandia) | Canavanine, glycosides | 176–700 Da | Low–Moderate | 90–95% | 5–10% | Small triterpene fraction bound |
| Cayenne (Capsicum) | Capsaicinoids | 305–337 Da | High | 70–85% | 15–30% | Capsaicin partly bound |
| Chamomile | Apigenin, flavonoids | 270–430 Da | Moderate–High | 80–90% | 10–20% | Apigenin aglycone partly bound |
| Cinnamon | Cinnamaldehyde (EO) | 132 Da | High | 70–80% | 20–30% | EO strongly bound |
| Cordyceps | Cordycepin, β-glucans | 251 Da; polymers | Low | 95–100% | 0–5% | Polysaccharides not bound |
| Cryptolepis | Cryptolepine alkaloid | 232 Da | High | 70–85% | 15–30% | Lipophilic alkaloid partly bound |
| Cumin / Black Seed | Thymoquinone | 164 Da | High | 70–85% | 15–30% | Strong EO binding |
| Dandelion | Caffeoylquinic acids | 354–516 Da | Low–Moderate | 90–95% | 5–10% | Polar acids mostly safe |
| Echinacea | Alkylamides, caffeic acids | 247–354 Da | High (alkylamides) | 75–85% | 15–25% | Alkylamides bound; phenolic acids remain |
| Garlic | Allicin, organosulfurs | 162–250 Da | Moderate | 85–90% | 10–15% | Minor sulfur compound loss |
| Grape Seed Extract | Procyanidins (OPCs) | 290–900 Da | Moderate–High | 80–90% | 10–20% | Larger oligomers bound |
| Grapefruit | Naringin glycoside | ~580 Da | Low–Moderate | 90–95% | 5–10% | Polar flavonoids remain |
| Lavender | Linalool, linalyl acetate | 154–196 Da | High | 70–80% | 20–30% | Volatile oils bound |
| Lemon Balm | Rosmarinic acid, EOs | 360 Da; 152 Da | Low–High | 85–95% | 5–15% | Oils bound; phenolic acids retained |
| Milk Thistle | Silymarin flavonolignans | ~482 Da | Moderate–High | 80–90% | 10–20% | Small fraction bound |
| Moringa | Quercetin, glucosinolates | 302 Da | Moderate–High | 80–90% | 10–20% | Quercetin partly bound |
| Neem | Azadirachtin, limonoids | 720–1000 Da | Moderate–High | 80–90% | 10–20% | Some limonoids bound |
| Olive Leaf | Oleuropein | 540 Da | Low–Moderate | 90–95% | 5–10% | Mostly retained |
| Oregano | Carvacrol, thymol (EOs) | 150 Da | High | 70–80% | 20–30% | Strong EO binding |
| Pau d’Arco | Lapachol | 242 Da | High | 70–85% | 15–30% | Lipophilic napthoquinone bound |
| Plantain | Aucubin glycoside | 346 Da | Low | 95–100% | 0–5% | Fully retained |
| Psyllium | Soluble fiber (polymers) | Very large | Indirect | — | — | Not bound; escorts toxins |
| Reishi | Triterpenes, β-glucans | 400–500 Da; polymers | Moderate–High | 80–90% | 10–20% | β-glucans retained |
| Shiitake | Lentinan (β-glucan), eritadenine | Polysaccharide; 271 Da | Low | 95–100% | 0–5% | Retained |
| Slippery Elm | Mucilage polysaccharides | Very large | Indirect | — | — | Protective coating, not bound |
| Thyme | Thymol, carvacrol (EOs) | 150 Da | High | 70–80% | 20–30% | EO strongly bound |
| Turmeric | Curcuminoids | 368–400 Da | High | 70–85% | 15–30% | Partly bound if taken with AC |
| Wormwood | Thujone, lactones | 152–248 Da | High | 70–80% | 20–30% | Volatile fraction bound |
| Yarrow | Flavonoids, azulenes | 270–500 Da | Moderate–High | 80–90% | 10–20% | Mostly retained |
| Yellow Dock | Anthraquinone glycosides | ~430 Da | Moderate | 85–90% | 10–15% | Glycosides partly bound |
Key Takeaways
We now go right into the science of how Activated Charcoal (AC) works.
Clients often think charcoal “absorbs” like a sponge, but the truth is it adsorbs toxins onto its surface. Here is a clear explanation:
Activated Charcoal doesn’t have biological receptors like cells do. Instead, it has millions of tiny pores created by superheating carbon. These pores are of different sizes:
Together, these pores create a surface area so vast that 1 gram of AC can expose up to 3,000 m² of binding surface.
The walls of the pores act as the “catching sites” for toxins. Instead of chemical reactions, the mechanism is mostly:
These interactions hold the toxins tightly inside the pores, much like dust sticking to a static cloth. They are not absorbed into the charcoal, just stuck on the surface until excreted.
Once toxins are caught, the AC–toxin complex cannot be broken down or absorbed by the gut. It simply passes through the intestines and is excreted in stool, usually within 12–24 hours.
✨ Summary:
Activated Charcoal works by using its millions of pores as “toxin traps”. These pore walls act like natural binding sites (receptors), catching small, fat-loving toxins through weak electrical and hydrophobic forces, and carrying them safely out of the body in stool.
What does it do to the Digestive System and organs? Where does it work, and is it safe?
Clients often ask if Activated Charcoal (AC) is safe and how it affects the digestive system and organs. Herewith comprehensive and clear explanation.
👉 In short: it stays in the gut and never leaves it.
✨ Summary:
Activated Charcoal works only in the gut, where it safely binds toxins and carries them out in the stool. It does not enter the blood, so it has no direct effect on the liver, kidneys, or other organs — instead, it reduces their workload by preventing toxins from being absorbed. At proper doses it is safe, though higher intakes can cause constipation or bind nutrients if not spaced properly.
Safe Use Guide: 100% Pure Activated Charcoal
| ✓ Safe & Beneficial Effects | ⚠️ Precautions & Considerations |
| Works only in the gut — never enters the bloodstream | Take 2 hours away from medications or supplements (AC may bind them) |
| Binds and removes mould toxins, Candida die-off aldehydes, pesticides, gases | In very high doses, may reduce absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) |
| Helps reduce gas, bloating, diarrhoea, food poisoning symptoms | May cause constipation if not enough water is taken |
| Relieves liver & kidney load by preventing toxin reabsorption | Causes black stools — harmless but expected |
| Inert and non-toxic — body does not digest or absorb it | Not a substitute for antifungal, antiparasitic, or medical treatments |
| Starts working immediately in stomach and intestines | Very rarely, excessive doses without water may cause gut blockage |
Key Client Guidance
✨ Summary:
Activated Charcoal is a safe, natural binder that works only in the gut, catching toxins before they are absorbed, supporting detox while protecting the body’s organs. With water and proper timing, it is an effective and well-tolerated detox aid.
Activated Charcoal in our 500 mg Mould & Mycotoxin Capsule
“Our capsule uses a very small amount of activated charcoal, so it focuses on binding mycotoxins while leaving 80–100% of most herb actives available; only a small fraction (often ≤10–20%) of the most lipophilic, volatile components may bind.”
Each 500 mg Mould & Mycotoxin Capsule contains only 6.435 mg of Activated Charcoal, a gentle amount that supports detox without depleting nutrients. At this level, charcoal selectively binds and removes harmful mycotoxins and die-off by-products from mould, Candida, and fungi, while leaving the beneficial herbs, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals in the formula fully available for absorption. This ensures safe and effective toxin removal with maximum therapeutic benefit.
Each of our 500 mg Mould & Mycotoxin capsules contains only 6.435 mg of Activated Charcoal. This is a very small supportive dose—just over 1% of the total capsule. At this level, the charcoal does not dominate the formula but plays a selective role as a gentle binder. Its purpose is to help catch the tiny toxic molecules that mould, fungi, and Candida can release, such as mycotoxins (aflatoxin, ochratoxin, zearalenone) and aldehydes. These toxins are all nano-sized compounds (measured in billionths of a meter), which fit into the pores of charcoal and are carried out of the body through the stool.
Because the charcoal content is low, it has minimal impact on the nutrients and herbs in the capsule. Most of the vitamins, amino acids, minerals, and polar herbal compounds (such as vitamin C, zinc, selenium, glutamine, NAC, caffeic acids, and polysaccharides) are not bound at all and remain fully available for absorption. Only a very small fraction of fat-soluble or lipophilic compounds—like essential oils, sterols, curcuminoids, or fat-soluble vitamins—may interact with the charcoal. Even then, at 6.435 mg, the charcoal has a limited capacity, so binding of beneficial compounds is minor.
The benefit of including this small amount of charcoal is that it supports detox without depleting nutrients. It acts like a mop in the gut, capturing the toxic by-products of mould and Candida die-off while leaving the rest of the formula to do its therapeutic job. In contrast to a full charcoal capsule (250–500 mg), which would bind nutrients much more aggressively, our low-dose inclusion ensures a balanced effect: binding and removing toxins while allowing the herbs, amino acids, and vitamins in the capsule to be absorbed and support the body’s recovery.
Overview
Activated charcoal (AC) is a porous adsorbent with an enormous surface area that captures molecules within its micropores (<2 nm) and mesopores (2–50 nm). Mycotoxins such as aflatoxins, ochratoxin A, and trichothecenes are small molecules (typically 300–750 Da; 0.8–1.8 nm) that fit easily into AC’s pore system.
In our capsule, AC is present at 6.435 mg, which is a very small amount compared with common stand-alone binder doses (250–1000 mg). At this level, AC functions as a gentle supportive binder: it helps to capture free mycotoxins and microbial by-products in the gut, while leaving the majority of our herbal actives bioavailable.
Why it removes “remnants” of killed mould/mycotoxins
When antifungal and immune-supporting herbs act against mould, candida, and other pathogens, fragments of cell walls and soluble toxins are released into the gut. AC adsorbs (Adsorption is the process where molecules of a substance, called the adsorbate, adhere to the surface of another substance, the adsorbent. This surface phenomenon can occur with gases or liquids and is driven by unsaturated forces on the adsorbent’s surface, which form bonds with the adsorbate) toxic debris and hydrophobic molecules so that they can be excreted, reducing toxic recirculation.
Selectivity and molecular size
Binding to AC depends on chemical nature, not just size:
Context in our formulation
Supportive synergy in our capsule
Mycotoxin size reference
Our 500 mg Mould & Mycotoxin Capsule showing, for each ingredient: the key active compounds, their approx. MW/size, affinity to Activated Charcoal (AC), and the likely outcome in our ~6.44 mg AC context (what tends to Remain vs be Excreted/Bound).
Activated Charcoal Interaction in our 500 mg Capsule (with estimated % retained vs excreted)
| Ingredient | Representative Active(s) | Approx MW/size | AC Affinity | What Remains (Retained & Absorbed) | What is Excreted/Bound (with AC) | Estimated % Retained / Excreted |
| Activated Charcoal | — | — | — | — | Mycotoxins, bile-carried hydrophobics | — |
| Fulvic Acid | Fulvic acids | 500–2000 Da | Moderate | Most organic acids, trace minerals | Small fraction of fulvic | 85–95 / 5–15 |
| African Potato (Hypoxis) | β-sitosterol glycosides | 400–600 Da | Moderate–High | Polysaccharides, minerals | Small sterol fraction | 80–92 / 8–20 |
| Aloe marlothii | Aloin, aloe-emodin | ~418 Da | Moderate | Polysaccharides/mucilage | Minor anthraquinones | 85–95 / 5–15 |
| Andrographis | Andrographolide | ~350 Da | Moderate | Polar glycosides | Some lactone | 85–95 / 5–15 |
| Barberry / Berberine | Berberine | 336 Da | Moderate | Ionized/polar salt forms | Small free berberine | 85–95 / 5–15 |
| Bearberry (Uva-ursi) | Arbutin | 272 Da | Low | Arbutin | Negligible | 95–100 / 0–5 |
| Bilberry | Anthocyanins | 430–950 Da | Low–Moderate | Most anthocyanins | Minimal | 90–98 / 2–10 |
| Black Jack (Bidens) | Flavonoids, phenylpropanoids | 300–600 Da | Moderate | Glycosides | Some aglycones | 85–95 / 5–15 |
| Buchu | Pulegone, menthone (EOs) | 152–170 Da | High | Flavonoids, tannins | Some volatile oils | 80–90 / 10–20 |
| Burdock Root | Arctiin; inulin | 534 Da; polymers | Moderate | Inulin, minerals | Some lignans | 85–95 / 5–15 |
| Calendula | Flavonoids, triterpenes, saponins | 300–900 Da | Low–Moderate | Saponins/glycosides | Minor aglycones | 90–98 / 2–10 |
| Cancerbush (Sutherlandia) | Canavanine; sutherlandiosides | 176–700 Da | Low–Moderate | Canavanine, glycosides | Some triterpene glycosides | 90–98 / 2–10 |
| Cayenne | Capsaicinoids | 305–337 Da | High | Vitamins/polars | Some capsaicinoids | 80–90 / 10–20 |
| Chamomile | Apigenin, flavonoids, azulenes | 270–430 Da | Moderate–High | Glycosides/coumarins | Apigenin aglycone fraction | 80–92 / 8–20 |
| Christmas Bush | Polyphenols, diterpenes | 300–500 Da | Moderate | Polar polyphenols | Some diterpenes | 85–95 / 5–15 |
| Cinnamon | Cinnamaldehyde (EO) | 132 Da | High | Tannins/water-solubles | Volatile cinnamaldehyde | 80–90 / 10–20 |
| Cordyceps | Cordycepin; β-glucans | 251 Da; polymers | Low | Cordycepin, β-glucans | Negligible | 95–100 / 0–5 |
| Coriander | Linalool (EO) | 154 Da | High | Polar flavonoids | Some linalool | 80–90 / 10–20 |
| Cryptolepis | Cryptolepine | 232 Da | High | Glycosidic/ionized forms | Some cryptolepine | 80–90 / 10–20 |
| Cumin (Black seed) | Thymoquinone | 164 Da | High | Fatty acids/sterols | Some thymoquinone | 80–90 / 10–20 |
| Dandelion | Caffeoylquinic acids; STLs | 354–516 Da | Low–Moderate | Chlorogenic/caffeic acids | Minor STLs | 90–98 / 2–10 |
| Echinacea | Alkylamides; caffeic acids | 247–354 Da | High (alkylamides) | Phenolic acids | Some alkylamides | 80–90 / 10–20 |
| Garlic | Allicin; organosulfurs | 162–250 Da | Moderate | Water-soluble S-compounds | Small allicin fraction | 85–95 / 5–15 |
| Goldenseal | Berberine | 336 Da | Moderate | Majority as salts | Small free fraction | 85–95 / 5–15 |
| Grape Seed Extract | Procyanidins | 290–900 Da | Moderate–High | Monomers/small oligomers | Larger oligomers | 80–92 / 8–20 |
| Grapefruit Extract | Naringin (glycoside) | ~580 Da | Low–Moderate | Naringin/polar flavonoids | Minimal | 90–98 / 2–10 |
| Horseradish Root | Allyl isothiocyanate | 99 Da | Moderate–High | Glucosinolates | Small volatile fraction | 80–92 / 8–20 |
| Lavender Leaf | Linalool, linalyl acetate | 154–196 Da | High | Rosmarinic acid/phenolics | Small EO fraction | 80–90 / 10–20 |
| Lemon Balm | Rosmarinic acid; EOs | 360 Da; volatiles | Low / High | Rosmarinic acid | Some volatile oils | 90–98 / 2–10 (phenolics) |
| Lemongrass | Citral (EO) | 152 Da | High | Polyphenols | Some citral | 80–90 / 10–20 |
| Licorice Root | Glycyrrhizin; flavonoids | 822 Da | Moderate | Glycyrrhizin/polysaccharides | Minor aglycones | 85–95 / 5–15 |
| Lion’s Mane | β-glucans; erinacines | polymers; ~500–700 Da | Low–Moderate | β-glucans | Small erinacine fraction | 90–98 / 2–10 |
| Milk Thistle | Silymarin complex | ~482 Da | Moderate–High | Majority of silymarin | Small fraction | 80–92 / 8–20 |
| Moringa | Quercetin; glucosinolates | 302 Da; polar | Moderate–High (quercetin) | Glucosinolates | Some quercetin | 80–92 / 8–20 |
| Neem | Azadirachtin; limonoids | 720–1000 Da | Moderate–High | Polar phenolics | Some limonoids | 80–92 / 8–20 |
| Olive Leaf | Oleuropein; hydroxytyrosol | 540 Da; 154 Da | Low–Moderate | Oleuropein/hydroxytyrosol | Minimal | 90–98 / 2–10 |
| Oregano | Carvacrol, thymol (EOs) | ~150 Da | High | Rosmarinic acid | Some volatile oils | 80–90 / 10–20 |
| Pau d’Arco | Lapachol | 242 Da | High | Glycosides | Some lapachol | 80–90 / 10–20 |
| Plantain | Aucubin (glycoside) | 346 Da | Low | Aucubin | Negligible | 95–100 / 0–5 |
| Psyllium Seed | Soluble fiber | Very high MW | Indirect | Fiber not absorbed; escorts toxins | — | — (escort effect) |
| Pumpkin Seed | Phytosterols; fatty acids | 280–400 Da | High | Protein/minerals | Some sterols | 80–90 / 10–20 |
| Reishi | Triterpenes; β-glucans | 400–500 Da; polymers | Moderate–High | β-glucans | Some triterpenes | 80–92 / 8–20 |
| Shiitake | Lentinan; eritadenine | Polymer; 271 Da | Low | Both retained | Negligible | 95–100 / 0–5 |
| Slippery Elm | Mucilage polysaccharides | Very high MW | Indirect | Protective mucilage | Escorts debris; limits binding | — (protective) |
| Tansy | Thujone (EO) | 152 Da | High | Polar flavonoids | Some thujone | 80–90 / 10–20 |
| Thyme | Thymol, carvacrol (EOs) | ~150 Da | High | Phenolic acids | Some volatile oils | 80–90 / 10–20 |
| Turmeric | Curcuminoids | 368–400 Da | High | Majority of curcuminoids | Small fraction bound | 80–90 / 10–20 |
| Walnut Leaves & Shells | Juglone; tannins | 174–1000 Da | Moderate–High | Ellagitannins/phenolic acids | Some juglone/tannins | 80–92 / 8–20 |
| Wormwood (African) | Thujone; STLs | 152–248 Da | High | Flavonoids | Some volatiles/STLs | 80–90 / 10–20 |
| Yarrow | Flavonoids; azulenes | 270–500 Da | Moderate–High | Glycosides | Some azulenes/aglycones | 80–92 / 8–20 |
| Yellow Dock | Anthraquinone glycosides | ~430 Da | Moderate | Glycosidic forms | Some aglycones | 85–95 / 5–15 |
| Vitamin A acetate | Retinyl acetate | 328 Da | High | Most vitamin A | Small fraction | 80–90 / 10–20 |
| Vitamin C | Ascorbic acid (ionic) | 176 Da | Low | All retained | None | 95–100 / 0–5 |
| Vitamin D3 | Cholecalciferol | 384 Da | High | Most vitamin D3 | Small fraction | 80–90 / 10–20 |
| Vitamin E acetate | α-Tocopheryl acetate | 472 Da | High | Most vitamin E | Small fraction | 80–90 / 10–20 |
| L-Glutamine | Amino acid | 146 Da | Low | All retained | None | 95–100 / 0–5 |
| N-Acetyl-L-Cysteine | NAC | 163 Da | Low | All retained | None | 95–100 / 0–5 |
| Quercetin | Flavonol (aglycone) | 302 Da | Moderate–High | Majority | Some bound | 80–92 / 8–20 |
| Selenium AAC (glycinate) | Chelated selenium | ~200–300 Da | Low | Retained | None | 95–100 / 0–5 |
| Taurine | Sulfonic amino acid | 125 Da | Low | Retained | None | 95–100 / 0–5 |
| Zinc Gluconate | Mineral salt/chelate | — | Low | Retained | None | 95–100 / 0–5 |
MW = Molecular Weight
Size
Why it matters for our capsule
👉 Example:
Adsorption is the process where molecules of a substance, called the adsorbate, adhere to the surface of another substance, the adsorbent. This surface phenomenon can occur with gases or liquids and is driven by unsaturated forces on the adsorbent’s surface, which form bonds with the adsorbate. Key examples include activated carbon purifying water by adsorbing organic molecules and activated alumina removing moisture from air.
Key Conclusions
Comparison table with our 6.435mg AC, compared to 50% in a capsule. Will the outcome still be the same?
The outcome would not be the same. Jumping from ~6.435 mg AC to ~50% of a 500 mg capsule (~250 mg AC) massively increases binding capacity and competition for actives, so a lot more of the lipophilic/aromatic compounds will end up bound & excreted instead of absorbed.
Below are clear, client-friendly comparisons.
1) Affinity-Tier Comparison (retained vs excreted)
These evidence-informed ranges assume one 500 mg capsule taken with food/fiber/fulvic. They’re educational estimates (not lab measurements).
| Affinity tier to AC | Examples (chemistry) | 6.435 mg AC Estimated Retained / Excreted | ~250 mg AC (50%) Estimated Retained / Excreted |
| Low | Highly polar/ionic: vitamin C, amino acids (glutamine, NAC, taurine), mineral chelates (zinc gluconate, Se-glycinate) | 95–100% / 0–5% | 90–100% / 0–10% |
| Low–Moderate | Polar phenolics & glycosides: anthocyanins (bilberry), naringin (grapefruit), chlorogenic/rosmarinic acids | 90–98% / 2–10% | 75–95% / 5–25% |
| Moderate | Mid-polarity aromatics: berberine (partly ionized), lignans, many flavonoids | 85–95% / 5–15% | 50–85% / 15–50% |
| Moderate–High | Planar aromatics/terpenoids: silymarin (milk thistle), quercetin, larger OPCs, triterpenes | 80–92% / 8–20% | 30–70% / 30–70% |
| High | Volatile oils & very lipophilic: carvacrol/thymol (oregano/thyme), cinnamaldehyde, citral, thujone; sterols; curcuminoids; fat-soluble vitamins A/D/E | 80–90% / 10–20% | 20–60% / 40–80% |
Takeaway: at 50% AC, many key lipophilic actives (EOs, sterols, curcuminoids, fat-soluble vitamins) can shift from “mostly retained” to substantially excreted.
2) What this means for typical actives in our formula
| Ingredient/Active (example) | Affinity | 6.435 mg AC (Retained → Excreted) | ~250 mg AC (50%) (Retained → Excreted) | Comment for clients |
| Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) | Low | ~98–100% → 0–2% | ~95–100% → 0–5% | Polar/ionic → barely affected even at high AC. |
| Amino acids (Glutamine, NAC, Taurine) | Low | 95–100% → 0–5% | 90–100% → 0–10% | Still largely available. |
| Minerals (Zinc gluconate, Se-glycinate) | Low | 95–100% → 0–5% | 90–100% → 0–10% | Ionic/chelated → minimal loss. |
| Anthocyanins (Bilberry) | Low–Mod | 90–98% → 2–10% | 75–95% → 5–25% | Some extra loss at 50% AC. |
| Rosmarinic/Chlorogenic acids (Lemon balm, Dandelion) | Low–Mod | 90–98% → 2–10% | 75–95% → 5–25% | Still mostly retained. |
| Berberine (Barberry/Goldenseal) | Moderate | 85–95% → 5–15% | 50–85% → 15–50% | Much bigger hit at 50% AC (less systemic berberine). |
| Quercetin (Moringa/Quercetin) | Mod–High | 80–92% → 8–20% | 30–70% → 30–70% | Large planar aromatic → vulnerable at high AC. |
| Silymarin (Milk thistle) | Mod–High | 80–92% → 8–20% | 30–70% → 30–70% | Hepatic support could be blunted at 50% AC. |
| OPCs (Grape seed) | Mod–High | 80–92% → 8–20% | 30–70% → 30–70% | Larger oligomers bind more at high AC. |
| Curcuminoids (Turmeric) | High | 80–90% → 10–20% | 20–60% → 40–80% | Major loss at 50% AC unless separated. |
| Essential oils: Oregano/Thyme (carvacrol/thymol), Cinnamon (cinnamaldehyde), Lemongrass (citral), Lavender (linalool) | High | 80–90% → 10–20% | 20–60% → 40–80% | Volatile, lipophilic → strongly affected by high AC. |
| Sterols (Pumpkin seed, Hypoxis β-sitosterol) | High | 80–90% → 10–20% | 20–60% → 40–80% | Sterol uptake heavily reduced at 50% AC. |
| Fat-soluble vitamins A/D/E | High | 80–90% → 10–20% | 20–60% → 40–80% | Strongly impacted at 50% AC. |
| β-Glucans & Mucilage (Lion’s mane, Reishi, Slippery elm, Psyllium) | Indirect/Low | ≈100% retained | ≈100% retained | Big, hydrophilic polymers; they escort toxins and can even reduce AC–nutrient contact. |
| Fulvic acids | Moderate | 85–95% → 5–15% | 60–85% → 15–40% | At high AC, more fulvics will be taken up by charcoal; charcoal sites less “coated” by small dose competition. |
| Mycotoxins (aflatoxin, OTA, etc.) | High | Capture: modest | Capture: high | Detox improves with higher AC—but so does nutrient binding. |
Practical guidance
Guide to what a 100% Activated Charcoal (AC) 500 mg capsule can bind from common mould/mycotoxin exposures, including a note on fungus & Candida.
What AC Binds: Major Mould & Mycotoxins
Legend (AC Affinity):
High = consistently strong binding in vitro; Moderate = variable/condition-dependent; Low = generally limited.
(“What remains” = fraction likely to escape binding and be absorbed; “What is adsorbed” = fraction likely to be bound to AC and excreted.)
Notes: Activated charcoal shows very strong binding for many planar, hydrophobic mycotoxins (e.g., aflatoxins, ochratoxin A, zearalenone) across studies, while binding is more variable for others (e.g., fumonisin B1, some trichothecenes like DON/T-2) and depends on AC pore structure, pH, and matrix. PubMedScienceDirectMDPI
| Mycotoxin (family) | Main mold producers | MW (Da) | AC Affinity | What is adsorbed (excreted with AC) | What remains (absorbed) | Key evidence |
| Aflatoxins (B1, B2, G1, G2) | Aspergillus flavus, A. parasiticus | B1: 312.27 | High | Majority at adequate AC dose | Minor fraction | Strong AC performance v. aflatoxins reported across binders; AFB1 MW confirmed. PubMedPubChemNIST WebBook |
| Ochratoxin A (OTA) | Aspergillus, Penicillium spp. | 403.8 | High | Very high (often >97% in vitro stomach-like conditions with AC) | Small fraction | Multiple studies/reviews; >97% at 1 ppm with activated coconut charcoal. PMCMDPIPubChem |
| Zearalenone (ZEA) | Fusarium spp. | 318.36 | High | High (planar, hydrophobic lactone) | Small–moderate | AC among best adsorbents for ZEA; MW confirmed. ScienceDirectMDPIUS EPA |
| Deoxynivalenol (DON / vomitoxin) | Fusarium graminearum | 296.32 | Moderate (variable) | Moderate; increases with optimized porous carbons | Notable fraction | Carbon materials can adsorb DON; performance varies by AC type/pH. PMC+1 |
| T-2 toxin (trichothecene) | Fusarium spp. | 466.5 | Low–Moderate | Limited–moderate | Moderate–substantial | Systematic data show lower adsorption averages vs AFB1/ZEA. Nature |
| HT-2 toxin | Fusarium spp. | 424.5 | Low–Moderate | Limited–moderate | Moderate | Generalized from trichothecene behavior; lower than AFB1/OTA/ZEA. Nature |
| Nivalenol (NIV) | Fusarium spp. | 312.3 | Low–Moderate | Limited–moderate | Moderate | Polar trichothecene; variable adsorption. PMC |
| Fumonisin B1 (FB1) | Fusarium verticillioides | 721.8 | Moderate (pH-dependent) | Moderate with suitable AC/conditions | Variable | Adsorption to AC demonstrated; improved at mildly acidic pH; MW confirmed. ResearchGateMilliporeSigmaPMC |
| Sterigmatocystin | Aspergillus spp. | 324.3 | High | High (structurally akin to aflatoxins) | Small | Structural analog to AFB1; MW confirmed. WikipediaPubChem |
| Citrinin | Penicillium, Monascus spp. | 250.25 | Moderate–High | Moderate–high | Small–moderate | MW confirmed; planar aromatic polyketide → adsorbable. PubChemWikipedia |
| Patulin | Penicillium expansum | 154.12 | Moderate–High | Moderate–high | Small–moderate | AC used for patulin removal; MW confirmed. PubChemfermentek.com |
| Alternariol (AOH) | Alternaria spp. | 258.23 | Moderate–High | Moderate–high | Small–moderate | Polyphenolic, planar; MW confirmed. PubChemWikipedia |
| Alternariol monomethyl ether (AME) | Alternaria spp. | 272.25 | Moderate–High | Moderate–high | Small–moderate | Often behaves like AOH; MW confirmed. PubChem |
| Enniatin B (cyclo-depsipeptide) | Fusarium spp. | 639.8 | High | High (lipophilic cyclic peptide) | Small | Lipophilic; AC effective vs multiple mycotoxins. MW confirmed. PubChemMDPI |
| Beauvericin | Beauveria, Fusarium spp. | 783.9 | High | High (very lipophilic cyclic peptide) | Small | As above; MW confirmed. PubChem |
| Gliotoxin | Aspergillus fumigatus | 326.4 | High | High (hydrophobic ETP) | Small | Lipophilic fungal metabolite; MW confirmed. PubChemWikipedia |
| Mycophenolic acid | Penicillium spp. | 320.3 | Moderate–High | Moderate–high | Small–moderate | Lipophilic phenolic acid; MW confirmed. PubChem |
Bottom line: With 500 mg of pure AC, binding is strongest for aflatoxins, OTA, ZEA, sterigmatocystin, enniatins/beauvericin, gliotoxin. It’s more variable for fumonisins and some trichothecenes (e.g., DON, T-2/HT-2), but still meaningful with the right AC and gut conditions (pH, contact time). PubMedScienceDirectMDPINature
What about “mould,” “fungus,” and “Candida” themselves?
Dosing Questions (for 100% AC capsules, 500 mg each)
Your scenario: “Typically they take 2–4 capsules, 3× daily.” → That’s 3–6 g/day total.
Is it better to spread to 3× daily
Yes. Spacing doses (e.g., breakfast / mid-afternoon / bedtime) maintains continuous binding coverage as bile continuously delivers recirculating toxins to the gut. Frequent smaller doses reduce ‘gaps’ where toxins could reabsorb (enterohepatic recirculation). This matches how AC is used to interrupt toxin recirculation in clinical toxicology (repeated doses), though exact protocols vary by toxin and setting. PubMed
What if you take more at once vs less but more often?
Practical tip: Keep at least 2 hours away from medications and key supplements (longer for narrow-therapeutic-index drugs). AC is non-specific and can adsorb some drugs. PubMed
Does AC keep you awake at night
No direct stimulant effect. AC is inert and not absorbed; it shouldn’t affect sleep physiology. Some people prefer bedtime AC because it’s far from meds/food; others avoid it if they’re prone to constipation or reflux when lying down. (Hydration helps.)
How is everything excreted
Activated Charcoal stays in the gut; bound toxins leave via stool, often darkening it. This is the desired pathway—sequestration + fecal excretion reduces re-entry into the bloodstream. PubMed
Does pure Activated Charcoal excrete parasites & worms?
No. AC is not an antiparasitic and doesn’t kill or expel worms. It may adsorb toxins and irritants that parasites produce, which can reduce symptoms, but confirmed deworming requires antiparasitic medications or targeted botanicals under professional guidance. Use AC as a supportive binder, not as a stand-alone parasite treatment.
Safety & Practical Notes
Quick reference: Molecular weights (Da)
AFB1 312.27, OTA 403.8, ZEA 318.36, DON 296.32, T-2 466.5, HT-2 424.5, FB1 721.8, Sterigmatocystin 324.3, Citrinin 250.25, Patulin 154.12, Alternariol 258.23, AME 272.25, Enniatin B 639.8, Beauvericin 783.9, Gliotoxin 326.4, Mycophenolic acid 320.3. PubChem+12PubChem+12PubChem+12US EPANatureMilliporeSigma
What happens to the die-off cells of parasites, worms, eggs, broken down candida? What are their sizes, and does AC help in any way?
This practical question comes up a lot when clients are doing detox or antifungal/antiparasitic protocols. Let’s break it down clearly.
When antifungal, antibacterial, or antiparasitic herbs/medicines act, they damage or kill the organism. The results include:
The immune system + gut peristalsis then process and move these remnants:
| Organism / debris | Typical size (live cell/egg) | Debris/fragment size after die-off | AC relevance |
| Parasites (protozoa) | 5–50 µm | fragments <1 µm; soluble toxins | Too large intact, but soluble debris can be adsorbed |
| Helminths (worms) | cm–m long; eggs 50–150 µm | cell wall pieces, proteins, lipids, heme products | AC cannot bind intact worms/eggs (too big) but can bind breakdown toxins & some proteins |
| Candida yeast cells | 4–6 µm (hyphae up to 20–50 µm) | cell wall fragments, mannans, β-glucans, acetaldehyde, aromatic toxins | Whole cells too large; AC binds acetaldehyde, aromatic aldehydes, phenolic by-products |
| Bacterial die-off (Herx) | 0.5–2 µm | endotoxins, lipopolysaccharides (~10–20 kDa) | LPS is large/polar, AC has limited direct effect but can adsorb associated hydrophobic fragments |
| Mycotoxins (secondary metabolites of fungi) | 0.8–2 nm | already small molecules | Ideal targets for AC binding |
⚖️ Scale reminder: Activated Charcoal pores bind best to small molecules (<2 nm). Whole cells/eggs are thousands of times larger (microns) → far too big to enter AC pores.
✅ Yes, for toxins & fragments:
❌ No, for whole organisms/eggs:
Comparison table that shows the differences between Activated Charcoal (AC) and Fulvic Acid (FA), including:
Comparison Table: Activated Charcoal vs Fulvic Acid
| Feature | Activated Charcoal (AC) | Fulvic Acid (FA) |
| What it is | Pure carbon, highly porous, inert substance | Complex mixture of very small organic acids, phenolics, and trace minerals |
| Absorption into body | 0% absorbed (works only in the gut) | Partially absorbed (tiny molecules can cross membranes and enter cells) |
| Mechanism of action | Works like a sponge: tiny pores physically adsorb small hydrophobic molecules (toxins, mycotoxins, bile-bound chemicals) and carry them out in stool | Works like a shuttle/chelator: chemically binds metals, minerals, and charged toxins; also carries nutrients across membranes and into cells |
| Best binding targets | Mycotoxins (aflatoxins, ochratoxin, zearalenone), aldehydes (Candida die-off), aromatic toxins, pesticides, bile-bound toxins | Heavy metals (lead, mercury, cadmium, arsenic), radionuclides, pesticides, agrochemicals, some herbicides; enhances absorption of trace minerals |
| What happens to toxins | Bound in gut → excreted 100% via stool | Bound in gut (unabsorbed fraction) → excreted in stool; absorbed fraction can carry metals/toxins to kidneys for urinary excretion |
| Impact on nutrients | Can also bind fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K), sterols, essential oils, some medications (if dose is high or close to timing) → small nutrient loss | Generally protective: fulvic acids can increase absorption of minerals (zinc, selenium, iron, magnesium) and vitamins; risk of nutrient loss is low |
| % Retained vs Excreted (nutrients) | Retained: ~80–95% (most nutrients escape binding at therapeutic doses) Excreted: ~5–20% of lipophilic compounds if timing is close |
Retained: ~90–100% (nutrients often enhanced) Excreted: only bound heavy metals, excess minerals, and toxins |
| % Retained vs Excreted (toxins) | Retained: 0–20% (some mycotoxins/trichothecenes can slip past if charcoal dose is low) Excreted: ~80–100% of many mycotoxins and hydrophobic toxins |
Retained: ~0–20% (some very large toxins not bound) Excreted: ~80–100% of metals, pesticides, and charged toxins |
| Where it works | Only in gut lumen (not absorbed) | Gut + systemic (tiny fraction absorbed into blood; works inside cells and kidneys too) |
| Time in body | Passes through gut in ~12–24 hours | Circulates systemically (absorbed fraction) for hours, unabsorbed part passes in stool |
| End effect | Reduces toxin reabsorption, relieves Herx/die-off symptoms, interrupts enterohepatic recirculation | Mobilizes and chelates metals/toxins, supports cellular energy, improves nutrient absorption |
Summary for Clients
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