Black Milk

Detox drinks are all the rage. If you’re an active member of the health and wellness community, you’ve likely encountered a variety of detox smoothies, shots, and other cleansing beverages. They seem to be everywhere—in recipes, on store shelves, and on the menus of many local nutritional beverage shops. Sometimes, you even run across one worth… well, writing an article about.

I would consider black milk or “black milk lattes” one of those cases. The reason that this one stands out as a personal favorite is due to both its simplicity and efficacy. Making this detox drink at home is incredibly easy and doesn’t require a long list of ingredients.

Activated charcoal is widely recognized for its powerful cleansing properties, which penetrate deep into the body, providing detoxification all the way down to the cellular level. Let’s discuss the benefits of activated charcoal and what it even is, and then I’ll show you how to make this delicious little gem.

What is Activated Charcoal?

Activated charcoal has an extensive history of medicinal use, stretching back to ancient times. It’s made by burning coconut shells, bamboo, olive pits, wood, and other substances. During this “activation process,” the charcoal is subjected to high temperatures and oxygen, increasing the number of pores on the surface area. The result is a high-quality black powder that is then sold in powder and capsule form.

Activated charcoal’s main benefit is its ability to remove toxins and impurities from the body. Its porous surface has a negative electrical charge, which draws in toxins and gases that are positively charged. When these substances come into contact with activated charcoal, they stick to its surface, which stops them from being absorbed by the body and allows them to be eliminated.

Health Benefits of Activated Charcoal

Activated charcoal is so effective at absorbing toxins that it’s become a valuable detox agent used in emergency medical situations such as drug and alcohol overdoses. However, it’s important not to overlook this important resource’s ability to impact us on a smaller scale, too. Activated charcoal is highly efficient at absorbing many of the toxins and chemicals that build up in our bodies as we live our everyday lives, so it can serve as an important maintenance or preventive measure.

Some people swear by activated charcoal as a go-to remedy for alleviating a hangover following a night of celebration. However, there is limited evidence to support its effectiveness in absorbing alcohol.

Scientific studies do, however, validate charcoal’s ability to reduce gas and bloating. It is also known for its ability to naturally cleanse the body, including the gut, which can reduce allergic reactions and oxidative damage and strengthen the immune system.

Activated charcoal’s detoxifying effects extend beyond the gut and even work at a cellular level within the body. For example, it helps cleanse the digestive system and toxins from the blood and vital organs. Studies have also demonstrated activated charcoal’s ability to remove heavy metals and cholesterol from the body. Moreover, activated charcoal can eliminate harmful free radicals that contribute to aging and the development of various diseases. And, of course, since it supports the body’s natural detoxification process, it also offers relief to detox organs like the kidneys and liver.

I often make a charcoal poultice and apply it to my aching back. Learn here to make a DIY anti-inflammatory charcoal poultice.

The following black milk drink recipe is an activated charcoal detox latte. Activated charcoal works best on an empty stomach. It is recommended that it be taken first thing in the morning to help purify and restart your body’s natural cleansing mechanisms and digestion. It’s simple to prepare, and despite looking a bit murky, it possesses a subtle sweetness and smoothness that is quite pleasing on the palate.

Note: Black milk and activated charcoal can interfere with the absorption of medications and nutrients, so they should be consumed separately from other supplements or medications is best to have your black milk drink at least two hours prior to taking any medications or vitamins on an empty stomach. First thing in the morning would be ideal.

Activated charcoal may be unsuitable for individuals with certain digestive concerns. It is also not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women. Consuming excessive amounts of activated charcoal can potentially result in constipation or other gastrointestinal problems. If you have any questions or concerns, please consult your healthcare provider.

How to Make Black Milk

Making this DIY detox drink is easy. Gather the ingredients listed below, along with a saucepan, your favorite mug and a blender, and you’re ready to go.

You will need:

• 3 cups nondairy milk of choice
• 1 tsp of activated charcoal (approximately three capsules)
• 2 tsp of vanilla extract or powder
• 3 tsp of honey
• A sprinkle of nutmeg for the top

To make:

1. Add your milk to the saucepan and bring it to a simmer.  While it’s heating up, you can complete the rest of the steps.
2. If the rim of your mug is wide enough for an emersion blender, you can blend your milk right in there. Otherwise, you can add your ingredients to a normal blender. Add everything except the nutmeg. Reserve that for the top.
3. Once your milk bubbles slightly, add it to your mug or blender vessel.  Add just enough to fill the mug ¾ way full.
4. Blend well. If you used a stand blender, add it to your mug. If you prefer more foam in your black milk drink, you can follow the optional step using any remaining warmed milk.
5. For the optional step, use an emersion blender and blend a bit of warmed milk from the pan until it creates foam.  Add that to the top of your mug.
6. Sprinkle the top of your mug with the nutmeg and enjoy!

If you’re looking to detoxify your body after a weekend of indulgence or simply want to give your system a gentle cleanse, a glass of black milk might be the perfect solution for you! And it’s a simple and enjoyable way to include activated charcoal in your wellness regimen.

You may also like:

Cleanse Your Bowels With These 2 Ingredients

How to Purify Water In The Wild (Video)

What To Do At Home After Food Poisoning

DIY Fermented Jalapeno Honey

Plant of The Week: Cayenne Pepper

What Happens If You Eat Black Garlic?

>>> Watch Video