FANCY SOME CHARCOAL?
The benefits: Activated charcoal has been used for health and healing purposes for more than 3000 years. It is known for its ability to filter toxins out of water and the human body. High-quality activated charcoal can be used to filter tap water (place a stick in your drink bottle or water jug), remove toxins from the skin, capture moisture and odours from the air, enhance blood circulation in a hot bath and deflect negative ions in your home.
How it works: Binchotan charcoal, from Japan's Kishu region, is activated by burning oak branches at extremely high temperatures for several days, then rapidly cooling them. If using in water, prior to use rinse charcoal and place it in boiling water for 10 minutes; let dry. May be used for up to three months. After use, break into small pieces and add to plant soil to improve drainage.
Where to get it:
Kishu Binchotan charcoal sticks, $22.50 per pack, from The Tonic Room, Kingsland.
