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Potential Therapeutic Applications of Bentonite in Modern & Persian Traditional Medicine: A Review

Articles in Press

Document Type : Review Article

Authors

1 student Research Committee, Faculty of Persian Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran

2 Traditional and Complementary Medicine Research Center, Addiction Institute, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran

3 Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran

4 Persian Medicine Faculty, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran

Abstract

Background: Bentonite has been mentioned in Persian medicine books for its therapeutic uses. This study, which aimed to review traditional Persian medical sources related to bentonite and its effects as reported in the scientific literature, holds significant potential for enhancing our understanding of this clay's medicinal properties.
Methods: This narrative review uniquely combines Persian medicine with modern scientific research. It is an interdisciplinary library study conducted using traditional medical literature and searching via numerous information databases. Before discussing recent scientific discoveries concerning the qualities and applications of Bentonite in modern medicine, it was first examined in the sources of traditional Persian medicine and pharmaceutics, as well as the experiences of ancient sages, enriching the study with diverse perspectives.
Results: Most articles discussed bentonite's significant uses, including its local and skin, digestive, detoxifying, and antimicrobial. These findings aligned with those of Persian medicine, providing a robust foundation for further exploration. It can be determined that various medicinal products can be derived from Bentonite to treat multiple health conditions, including skin and gastrointestinal disorders.
Conclusion: Traditional Persian medical books provide information on the topical and oral applications of bentonite, which can be the basis for many new studies in modern medicine. Bentonite, an efficient and extensively utilized mineral substance, can also be used as a raw material or in the structure of combined medications to treat many diseases.

Keywords

Main Subjects

References
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Journal of Kerman University of Medical Sciences

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 04 October 2025
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