What is bentonite clay?

Bentonite, also referred to as Montmorillonite, is one of the most effective and powerful healing clays. Bentonite can be used externally as a clay poultice, mud pack or in the bath and, in skin care recipes. It is highly effective at removing toxins, heavy metals, impurities, proteins, and other undesirable chemicals. A good quality bentonite clay should be a grey/cream color. Anything bordering on pure white should be treated as suspect. It has a very fine, velveteen feel and is odorless and non-staining.