Eating multani mitti, also known as Fuller’s Earth, can indeed be harmful. While it is a natural substance, it does not naturally mean safe for consumption. Multani mitti is composed mainly of minerals like aluminum silicate, known for its ability to absorb oil and impurities. It’s highly valued in skincare for these reasons, helping to cleanse and purify the skin. However, internally, it can create a complete different set of problems.
Ingesting multani mitti might lead to digestive issues, and in some cases, it could cause bowel blockages or even more serious complications. Its mineral content is not suitable for ingestion and could upset the balance of your digestive system, impairing the digestive fire (agni) which is key in the Siddha-Ayurvedic tradition. The earthiness and heavy kala nature of multani mitti might aggravate kapha dosha, leading to lethargy and congestion or disturb vata, leading to dryness and imbalance in the intestines.
From a practical standpoint, it’s wise to reserve multani mitti for external use only, especially in face masks where it can be beneficial without posing risk. If detoxification is your aim, consider safer, more traditional dietary methods. Trikatu churna, for example, or a regimen focused on seasonal fruits, vegetables, and herbs known for their cleaning properties. It’s essential to cleanse while nurturing the body’s constitution (prakriti) without compromising health.
In cases where you or others might be tempted to experiment with ingesting multani mitti, I strongly advise against it. For any detox regimen or internal remedy, consult with a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner to ensure the method suits your unique constitution and health needs. Misjudging the balance of the doshas can lead to more harm than good.
