Activated charcoal is widely used in different areas, ranging from the pharmacy, medicine, and cosmetic industry to ecology. This type of coal is produced by exposing standard coal to high temperatures. It is known for its ability to absorb toxins and other harmful substances. Considering its versatile uses, activated charcoal plays an essential role in everyday life.

What is activated charcoal?

Activated charcoal contains carbon and other carbon compounds. It is formed through processes that increase its surface and porosity. This activation process enables it to absorb harmful substances like toxins, gases and liquids. Activated charcoal cannot be metabolised nor absorbed through the GI tract.

Application in medicine

One of the most well-known applications of activated charcoal in medicine is its use in cases of poisoning and overdose. It is highly effective in binding toxins in the stomach and intestines, stopping them from entering the bloodstream. This makes activated charcoal a powerful tool in treating acute food, medicine, and some types of chemical poisoning. Moreover, it can also help with gastrointestinal issues such as bloating and gasses.

Application in the cosmetic industry

Due to its impurity-absorbing ability, activated charcoal is becoming increasingly popular in the cosmetic industry and is a part of many people’s wellness routines. It is mainly used in body and skin cleansing products, such as soaps, cleansing gels, masks, and peelings. Activated charcoal has a porous structure that enables it to absorb extra oils, dirt, and toxins from the skin’s surface. Therefore, it helps manage acne, blackheads, and other skin issues. It is also used in hair shampoos and treatments as it successfully removes dirt build-ups and other hair product residues left on the scalp while also helping manage dandruff.

Application in ecology

Activated charcoal is used in ecology for water and air filtration. Due to its ability to absorb different pollutants, it is considered one of the most effective materials for filtering and purifying in industrial facilities.

Potential dangers and contraindications

Even though activated charcoal has many benefits, it can be contraindicated in certain circumstances due to the possibility of causing obstipation, dehydration and black stool.  Besides absorbing toxins, it can also absorb prescribed medications, diminishing its effectiveness. Hence, talking with your doctor before using activated charcoal is crucial. It is essential to realise that in cases of iron, ethanol, lithium and alkaline poisoning, activated charcoal is not effective and can even cause additional complications.

Translated by: Dea Radek

Literature

1. What Is Activated Charcoal? Benefits and Uses, 2021., https://www.healthline.com/, accessed15.01.2025.

2. Activated Charcoal: Benefits, Uses, and Risks, 2024., https://www.webmd.com/, accessed 14.01.2025.

3. What are the benefits od activated charcoal?, 2024.,https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/, accesed 14.01.2025.

Photography source

Photo by Polina Tankilevitch: https://www.pexels.com/photo/woman-having-facial-care-3738348/