Bentonite Clay

Quite simply – Bentonite Clay is “magic dirt ” for hoof care. It possesses a few unique properties which are very beneficial for hooves.

It is an absorbent swelling clay that consists mostly of montmorillonite and is a smectite clay. Forming from the weathering of volcanic ash in seawater, it is rich in minerals and has powerful absorbent qualities.

Used in many differing applications, Bentonite Clay can absorb up to 23 times its weight in water. Therefore it is used widely in drilling applications, sealing dams and even to clarify wine, beer, mead as well as cider.

It also absorbs toxins as well as fungi and contains over 75 trace minerals. It is a natural, negatively charged adsorbent used to bind positively charged substances, including toxins and certain undesirable microbes.

It can reduce fungal overgrowth in gut health applications and also inhibit fungal growth in agricultural silage.

Bentonite Clay for optimum hoof care

A natural antimicrobial, the absorbent qualities benefit hooves because the clay draws a lot of moisture out of the hoof. Moisture softens hooves and makes the hoof vulnerable to invasion by harmful microbes. Drawing moisture thereby hardens the hooves.

Bentonite clay also pulls and absorbs bacteria and necrotic tissue out of the hoof. It can be used to help manage Candida overgrowth by absorbing fungal toxins as well. It is therefore especially good for thrush in hooves.

Being a natural desiccant, clay application strengthens hooves by drying them out.

The physical pressure applied by the use of clay on hooves also stimulates new hoof growth which is denser and less likely to appeal to microbes.

The ability to draw toxins, absorb moisture and stimulate new growth also makes this clay a great option for hoof abscess treatment.

Good Gear Naturals uses Bentonite as the base for our Hoof Clay.